Selar has announced the third edition of its annual tuition support program, now fully integrated into its social impact and CSR arm, the Smart Hustle Initiative. For the first time since its launch, the fund has been expanded to support both secondary school students and university and polytechnic students across Nigeria, reinforcing the company’s long-term commitment to tackling fraud at its roots through education and opportunity.
Under this year’s initiative, Selar is committing ₦10,000,000 to support 150 students at critical stages of their academic journey. Fifty final-year students in accredited universities and polytechnics will receive ₦100,000 each, while one hundred SS3 students preparing for WAEC and JAMB examinations will receive ₦50,000 each. Applications open on February 24th and close on March 13, 2026.
The Smart Hustle Initiative is built on the belief that the fight against fraud does not begin with enforcement, but with access to education and more legitimate pathways to success. With reports showing a staggering 200% increase in school fees across Nigeria, education is becoming increasingly inaccessible for many families.
Beyond financial grants, the Smart Hustle Initiative represents a long-term commitment to youth empowerment. The company says the initiative is evolving into a broader movement that will include nationwide campaigns, community engagement programs, and strategic partnerships designed to connect young Nigerians to legitimate income opportunities and digital skills. The goal is not only to provide short-term relief but to build sustained belief in education and enterprise as credible alternatives to fraud.
“There is so much to the fraud culture in Nigeria today and The Smart Hustle Initiative is our response to it” said Douglas Kendyson, CEO of Selar. “Our big goal is reducing the amount of people that get into fraud while offering legitimate and fulfilling pathways to success. This fund is a very small piece of the puzzle. It’s a simple cushion for students that might need some extra help in their current academic pursuit. Hopelessness is very dangerous for parents and students alike, and if this fund can give hope for them to keep their head up, it would be money well spent,” he added.
By supporting students at pivotal transition points from SS3 examinations to final-year university completion, Selar aims to reduce the financial pressures that often force students out of school and, in some cases, toward fraudulent activities. Selar describes the initiative as a proactive investment in Nigeria’s youth and a practical step toward strengthening belief in education as a legitimate pathway to economic mobility.
To be eligible under the university category, applicants must be final-year students enrolled in accredited tertiary institutions in Nigeria, have a minimum CGPA of 3.0 or 65% cumulative grade, demonstrate financial need, and submit a video statement of purpose, a valid student ID, and the most recent transcript. Secondary school applicants must provide proof of SS3 status or recent school results, evidence of WAEC or JAMB registration, and a video application. All applications will be reviewed by an independent selection committee, and selected beneficiaries will be notified following the review process.
Selar’s Smart Hustle Initiative continues to serve as the company’s structured approach to social impact, focused on expanding access to education, creating opportunity for young Nigerians, and promoting the values of hard work and legitimate enterprise.
Students who meet the eligibility criteria are encouraged to apply within the application window at https://events.selar.com/page/selarsmarthustle.
In addition to financial support, Selar is calling on individuals and communities to join the movement as volunteers. The Smart Hustle Initiative is a nationwide effort equipping young people with financial literacy, media awareness, life skills, and ethical income pathways. Link here to volunteer
About Selar
Selar is an innovative e-commerce store builder designed to empower creators to monetise their skills and knowledge as digital products, including a vibrant affiliate network and Showlove, a feature that enables creators to receive direct tips from their fans. With a user-friendly interface and comprehensive monetisation tools, Selar has become a leading platform for creators looking to monetise their knowledge and skills in the digital economy.
