How Oluwaseyifunmi Valentina Oladipo, a Nigerian Scholar, Secured a Fully Funded Master’s in Public Health (Maternal and Child Health) at Peking University, China Through the Chinese Government Scholarship

My name is Oluwaseyifunmi Valentina Oladipo. I am Nigerian and work as a nutritionist with the Lagos State Health Service Commission, Lagos, Nigeria.

Educational qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Human Nutrition and Dietetics, University of Ibadan, Nigeria.

Master of Public Health degree (MPH), Peking University, Beijing, China.

My background in Human Nutrition and Dietetics gave me a foundation in understanding the nutritional needs of mothers and children. I decided to pursue an MPH in Maternal and Child Health because of my interest in improving the health and nutritional outcomes of women, infants, and children, particularly in underserved communities. Maternal and child health remains a major public health priority, and many preventable health problems are influenced by factors such as poor nutrition, inadequate healthcare access, limited health education, and socioeconomic challenges.

Using the knowledge and skills gained from the programme, I hope to contribute to research and public health programmes that improve maternal and child health outcomes, particularly within Nigeria and other low- and middle-income settings.

Chinese Government Scholarship Details

I was privileged to be selected as a recipient of the Chinese Government Scholarship (China-Africa Friendship Program). This fully-funded offer availed me the opportunity to pursue a Master of Public Health degree (MPH) at the top-ranked School of Public Health, Peking University. The scholarship amount of RMB 3,000 covered tuition, accommodation, medical insurance, and living expenses

Educational Background

My academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Human Nutrition and Dietetics from the University of Ibadan, Nigeria, where I graduated with a Second Class Lower degree. Although my undergraduate result was not the outcome I had hoped for, I did not allow it to define my academic potential or deter me from pursuing further education and scholarship opportunities.

The progression from Human Nutrition and Dietetics to Public Health was intentional. My undergraduate training helped me understand health from an individual and nutritional perspective, while the MPH broadened my perspective to consider communities and population-level interventions.

On the other hand, my academic journey taught me that one academic result does not define a person’s ability or determine the limits of what they can achieve. What matters is how we respond to setbacks, our willingness to learn and improve, and our determination to continue pursuing opportunities similar to our goals.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to Peking University?

How Did You Find Information About Chinese Government Scholarship and Peking University?

Preparation for the scholarship application was carried out by researching universities that offered programmes aligned with my academic and professional interests. The Chinese Scholarship Council (CSC) website was used to search for available institutions and identify suitable programmes. After selecting a preferred university, careful review of application requirements was done alongside preparation of necessary documents such as transcripts, certificates, reference letters, amongst others, and submission of the application in accordance with the stated guidelines.

Did You Take Any Standardized Tests? If So, How Did You Prepare for Them?

No, I did not. However, I obtained Proof of English Language Proficiency from my school, which was used to support my application.

How is Your Experience at Peking University?

My experience at Peking University was worthwhile and academically enriching. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, I was unable to travel to China to attend my Master of Public Health programme in person. However, the University’s provision of live online classes enabled me to participate actively in my studies by engaging with lecturers and coursemates through discussion rooms and other platforms.

Despite studying remotely, I particularly valued the diversity of the student community, with students from different countries, cultures and professional backgrounds. Interacting with them broadened my perspectives, strengthened my understanding of global health issues, and allowed me to learn from experiences beyond my own context. Alternatively, it also showed that meaningful international learning can take place even when physical mobility is limited.

How Do You Rate Peking University Academically?

I would rate Peking University as an excellent institution academically; its strong international reputation is reflected in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026, where it is ranked 13th globally. The University also performs particularly well in areas relevant to my field, including Medical and Health, Life Sciences, and Social Sciences.

My personal experience as an MPH student further strengthened my appreciation of the University’s academic standard. Peking University's research-oriented nature provided a learning environment that encouraged critical thinking, independent learning and  exposure to different perspectives on healthcare. Furthermore, the practicum experience was particularly valuable, as it helped my understanding of how public health approaches can be adapted to different communities and settings.

How Does Peking University Support International Students?

Peking University provides good support for international students, particularly through its international student services. Students receive guidance on academic and administrative matters, registration, and other aspects of studying in China. There is also a strong international student community, which makes it easier to interact with other students from different countries

Are Your Classes Conducted in English or Chinese?

My MPH programme was conducted primarily in English (although I was also taught Elementary Chinese). This made it easier to participate fully in lectures, discussions, presentations and academic work.

What Did You Pursue After the Chinese Government Scholarship?

Following the completion of my programme, I commenced my professional career as a Nutritionist with the Lagos State Health Service Commission, where I work in a hospital setting in Lagos State, Nigeria.

Would Potential Students Have Any Problems Not Knowing Chinese?

In my experience as an MPH student at Peking University, my programme was conducted in English, which enabled me to participate fully without needing proficiency in Chinese.

Despite this, learning some basic Chinese can be beneficial, particularly for students who intend to study on campus. While language was not a barrier to my academic studies, having some knowledge of the local language can make it easier to communicate and engage with the cultural environment. I would encourage prospective students not to be discouraged by not knowing Chinese, provided they carefully confirm the language of instruction for their chosen programme.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

With a background in Human Nutrition and Dietetics, I had already developed a strong interest in nutrition and improving health outcomes, particularly in underserved communities. I was clear about why I wanted to pursue an MPH and how I hoped to use the knowledge and skills gained from the programme to contribute to public health in Nigeria and beyond. Furthermore, I believe the letters of recommendation from my referees strengthened my application. Their support gave the selection committee an additional perspective on my academic abilities, character, and potential, beyond what I could communicate through my application alone.

Most importantly, I believe God’s favour played a significant role in the success of my application. I prepared diligently and gave the application process my best, but I recognise that the opportunity to study at Peking University was a blessing. In retrospect, the experience taught me that preparation is important, but so are support, faith, and trusting God with the outcome.

What Advice Would You Give Those Looking to Apply for a Similar Scholarship?

My advice would be: do not underestimate yourself because you do not have a perfect academic or professional background. Sometimes, the biggest barrier is not the competition but doubting if you are good enough to apply.

Begin your search for schools early, identify a programme that fits with your academic interests/career goals, and seek counsel. Volunteering is a good way to build your work experience, and online courses can also strengthen your educational experience. Choose your referees and, where possible, give them enough time to write strong and meaningful recommendations. My family’s support also reminded me that having people who encourage and believe in your potential can make the journey much easier.

Finally, I would encourage applicants not to be discouraged by the competitiveness of scholarships. Do your part by preparing diligently, putting forward the best application you can, and having faith in the process.