Brilliant Nigerian Lady bags first-class degree in Civil Engineering, wins UK Commonwealth Scholarship

Chidiebere Anastacia Ezeh, a talented Nigerian who graduated with top honors in Civil Engineering from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, has received the esteemed UK Commonwealth Scholarship. This scholarship, awarded after a competitive application process, enables her to study for a master’s degree in Sustainable Civil and Structural Engineering at the University of Liverpool.

A remarkable Nigerian woman, Chidiebere Anastacia Ezeh, has earned a first-class degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and been awarded the highly competitive UK Commonwealth Scholarship. She shared her journey to success on LinkedIn, describing it as a long-awaited achievement.

After obtaining her first-class bachelor’s degree, Ezeh began applying for scholarships in 2022, confident that her outstanding academic record would secure her a spot in graduate school. However, the process proved to be more challenging than expected. Undeterred, she spent time researching and preparing her academic CV, transcripts, and statement of purpose, drawing from various sources to strengthen her applications.

In 2023, after more than a year of relentless efforts—including countless applications, sleepless nights, cold emails, and rejections—Ezeh’s perseverance paid off. She was awarded the fully funded Commonwealth Master’s Scholarship, a prestigious recognition given to individuals with the potential to make a global impact.

The scholarship, funded by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office, covers master’s and Ph.D. studies, along with numerous other benefits. Ezeh was nominated by the Forum for African Women Educationalists (FAWE) Nigeria Chapter to pursue a master’s degree in Sustainable Civil and Structural Engineering at the University of Liverpool.

Her studies will align with one of the six themes of the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission, “Strengthening Resilience and Response to Crisis.” Ezeh aims to explore how sustainability principles can be integrated into the architecture, engineering, and construction sectors through the use of eco-friendly materials and practices.

Excited about this new chapter, Ezeh looks forward to gaining knowledge and skills to advance sustainability. She reflects on her scholarship application process as a lesson in grit, proactiveness, and the courage to aim high, despite initial challenges. Beyond academics, the journey has also inspired her to become more intentional about making a positive societal impact, particularly through volunteering.

Ezeh expressed heartfelt gratitude to everyone who supported her throughout the process and offered advice to others navigating similar paths, encouraging them to stay resilient and focused on their goals.