I Was Kidnapped - I Became Best Student - Then I Got 2 Scholarships! | Ndongkeh Nelson
- Open Dreams
- 16 hours ago
- 3 min read
After completing my BSc in 2021, I tried applying for scholarships, but it all proved futile. The stench of the failure was more painful because I was the best graduating student in my class! However, I decided to move on. I enrolled for my first Master's Degree in Environmental Science in The University of Bamenda where I graduated again as one of the best students in the entire Faculty of Science in December 2024 with a First Class CGPA of 3.73/4.0.
The joy of all these achievements was short-lived as the obvious question came to mind: What next?
PhD programs were suspended. What do I do now? Even if PhD programs were open, who would sponsor me? I tried getting professional internships in Douala, but that all failed! I moved back to Bamenda, totally disappointed. Then I got a professional internship position with an international NGO, but even that was dashed. because of current US policies. All these were frustrating for the young graduate!
Amidst this dilemma, that's when Open Dreams came in. It offered me the opportunity to volunteer, build community impact, network with brilliant minds, learn a lot about scholarships, and lead Initiatives.
By February 2025, I decided to apply for other opportunities again, and this time around, I got two fully funded graduate scholarships in China. The burden of choice was now on me. I decided to go for the one at Jilin Agricultural University, where I'll be studying Agricultural Resource and Environment for the next 3 years under the Chinese Government Scholarship High Level Postgraduate Program.
I'm deeply grateful to my Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, who has been my help from day one till now. I truly give all glory to Him alone.
I am also truly thankful to my parents and family for their support and encouragement.
To my amazing supervisors, Baninla Yvette and Edna Visiy , who poured out their hearts in writing my recommendation letters, I say thank you. Without your unwavering support, I won't be here.
Thank you to Akaba James and the entire Open Dream for inspiring me beyond measure. In this community, I saw people living out the success I once only imagined. Then I knew my dreams were valid and not exaggerated. I'm thankful for mentors like Pateson Vades Ngoufack and Blessing Lum for the guidance and support.
To my friends at EcoHub Goe Academy and International Student Environmental Coalition - ISEC Cameroon I say a big thank you for all the opportunities we had to make impact together. Distance is not a barrier. Our work to shape our communities definitely continues.
I'm also grateful to my Pastor Mbeko Herman and brethren of The Starlight Assembly Bamenda for their continuous prayers and moral support.
To everyone who knows me, I am proof that you can both be heavily dedicated spiritually and yet still excel academically/professionally. You don't have to choose! Dream boldly and clearly. We were made for more, and if the Lord tarries, we shall become all that He has said!
At this point, I want to dedicate this milestone to:
My parents for their unwavering love and support. Sponsoring most of my education and that of my siblings from pension is a sacrifice I do not take for granted.
Everyone out there who has a dream yet are not sure if it's possible, as long as those dreams align with the word and will of God for your life, then yes, that dream is valid. Don't drop it.
Lastly, to all my friends of the ODSA'25 Batch of Fortitude Bamenda Hub, you have been amazing. I am waiting for you all at the top because I know by God's grace, you all will make it here and even much higher.
Through this opportunity, I'm happy to represent Cameroon! I'm happy to represent environmental sustainability. I'm happy to represent quality education. And above all, I'm happy to represent Jesus Christ in China!
This scholarship opens in October 2025, and I'll be doing orientation for all those interested and qualified. Keep an eye.
- Ndongkeh Nelson | Open Dreams
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