Now in its fifth year, The Millennium Point Trust Scholarship offers one lucky student the chance to complete an undergraduate degree from a range of courses at the faculty of Computing, Engineering and the Built Environment at Birmingham City University free of tuition fees.

The application process consists of a few short questions encouraging students to explain why they should win the degree, followed by opportunities for those shortlisted, including presentation training, industry work placements and networking with STEM business leaders facilitated by Millennium Point. The scholarship will then be awarded during a live final event on 27th March where the candidates will present their project findings to an audience and panel of esteemed industry judges.

Sagal Abdirahman, the 2017 winner of the Millennium Point Scholarship, talks about passion and preparation being key to securing the next scholarship spot.

She commented: “If I had one piece of advice I could offer to applicants of The Millennium Point Trust Scholarship, it would be to ensure that you complete thorough research on your topic of choice. Come prepared, as the more prepared you feel and the more passionate you are, the easier it will be for to speak about your chosen subject.”

Last year, the 18-year-old winner wowed the panel of judges with her presentation on Cleaning The Planet. Sagal is currently in her first year on a Civil Engineering course at Birmingham City University.

Ryan Dowell has just started his sponsored course in Civil Engineering at BCU, having won this year’s scholarship. He has also completed a work experience programme at two of Europe’s most prominent engineering and construction companies facilitated by Millennium Point.

Commenting on his experience, Ryan said: “It’s not just about the quality of your presentation when it comes to winning, but more so about your skills as a public speaker.

“Speaking confidently about your topic will carry you far both in the scholarship programme and in life afterwards. I was really nervous when I first got on stage, but once I got into my presentation it all came naturally.”

Applications are now open to all West Midlands-based students ready to start their degree in September 2019.

Not only does the scholarship provide the opportunity for a young person to take their first steps in their career helping address the current UK shortage of skilled workers in STEM industries, but it also reinforces The Millennium Point Charitable Trust’s objectives of supporting STEM projects having already invested more than £4.8m West Midlands-based, STEM-related initiatives.

For further details about Millennium Point Trust Scholarship, entry requirements and the application process visit here.