Dr Ifedapo Francis Awolowo, a Nigerian-British lecturer at Sheffield Hallam University, is helping more black students in the UK gain admission to PhD programmes. Through his initiative called ASPIRE (Accomplished Study Programme in Research Excellence), he has already mentored 59 black scholars, with 15 gaining fully funded PhD positions at top UK universities.
ASPIRE is different from regular mentoring programmes. It focuses on cultural identity, emotional support, and skills like proposal writing and networking. Dr Awolowo says the goal is not just to give access but also to help students feel they belong. The programme is funded by the Office for Students (OfS) and UKRI, and draws on African values such as Ubuntu and Omoluabi, which promote community and integrity. Dr Awolowo, born and raised in Nigeria, was inspired to create ASPIRE due to his struggles while in school. His work is now being praised by top education leaders as a model for better inclusion in higher education.
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