In a bid to demystify the process of securing international scholarships and promote academic mentorship, Dr. Babajide Milton Macaulay, a lecturer in the Department of Biology at the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), has unveiled his new book titled Scholar’s Bible.
Presenting the book to the Vice Chancellor, Professor Adenike Oladiji, at her office, Dr. Macaulay described the publication as a practical, experience-based guide intended to support students and graduates in accessing fully funded scholarships and academic fellowships abroad. He explained that the idea for the book arose from the overwhelming number of daily inquiries he receives from scholarship aspirants seeking advice and mentorship.
“On average, over 20 individuals reach out to me daily for guidance. Since I can’t be everywhere at once, I decided to put my thoughts, experiences, and tested strategies into a book. If you read this book, it’s as though you’ve sat down with me one-on-one,” Dr. Macaulay said.
Reacting to the unveiling, Professor Oladiji described Scholar’s Bible as “a legacy of mentorship and impact,” lauding it as a timely and invaluable resource that reflects the core values of FUTA, excellence, innovation, and service.
“This is not just a book,” the Vice Chancellor remarked. “It is a mindset, one that sees beyond limitations and creates pathways for others to rise. Dr. Macaulay has proven that scholarship is not only about personal advancement but about lifting others as you climb.”
She also praised the author’s decision to document his journey in a manner that benefits the larger academic community, describing the effort as a powerful example of turning personal success into collective empowerment. “The story behind your first scholarship alone is inspiring. I am particularly impressed by your deliberate effort to document what many scholars simply talk about in passing. This is what legacy looks like,” she added.
Drawing from his experience of securing 14 scholarships and fellowships over two decades, Dr. Macaulay said the Scholar’s Bible offers a step-by-step breakdown of scholarship applications, from building a compelling academic or professional profile to writing persuasive personal statements, and addressing post-award challenges such as reintegration into the Nigerian academic space.
He recounted that his journey began unexpectedly when he followed a friend to a scholarship test venue and ended up being awarded a scholarship himself, an experience he now uses to inspire others about the role of courage, faith, and mindset.
In the final chapter of the book, Dr. Macaulay introduces what he calls the “FUTA Mentorship Pyramid,” a conceptual framework encouraging beneficiaries of foreign scholarships to return home and mentor others, thus sustaining a cycle of excellence and academic leadership within Nigerian institutions.
The book, available in both hard copy and digital format on platforms like Selar, also addresses nuanced topics such as the distinction between academic and corporate CVs, choosing the right scholarships, and maintaining excellence after being awarded.
Dr. Macaulay expressed hope that Scholar’s Bible would inspire more young Nigerians to approach their academic aspirations with focus, resilience, and strategic thinking. “I hope this book becomes the companion for every aspiring scholar who dares to dream big and aims high,” he said.
