Education is no longer a luxury but a necessity for women –Stefanie Obiano

Stefanie Obiano, the CEO of Furalle Limited, is a travel management and education development specialist who prides herself on actively building a brand that resonates with boldness, vision and deep passion for human capital development. The convener of Furalle Education Fair in this interview with ADEOLA OJO, speaks on importance of education to women, education experience in Nigeria and effect of education fairs in Nigeria among others.

What do you think is the importance of education in this generation, especially for women?

Education is no longer a luxury; its a necessity for women and I must say, for all too, it is the ultimate tool of liberation, leadership, and societal transformation. My global travels have shown me that communities that invest in female education are often the most innovative and resilient. Educating women doesnt just uplift them; it strengthens families, accelerates development, and sets entire nations on a path of prosperity. I believe that education is humanitys most powerful equalizer. My work in travel management and education development has allowed me to open global frontiers for students, building a bridge between Nigeria, Africa and the world. Education isnt just about degrees and certificates; its the foundation of relevance and impact.

Many people aspire to get education abroad. Is this an aspersion on Nigeria’s educational sector?

Not at all. I see it as a complement, not a criticism. Nigerias education system has produced world-class leaders, but the global stage demands diversity of thought and exposure. Studying abroad equips our students with fresh perspectives that they can bring back home. Its about building bridges, not burning them.

In the quest to travel abroad for education, many get swindled. Whats responsible for this?

Desperation and lack of verified information make students and families vulnerable to fraud. Thats one of the reasons I started the Furalle Education Fair: to create a trusted, transparent platform where families can engage directly with reputable institutions and get the guidance they need. The Furalle Education Fair is not just an exhibition; its a knowledge exchange hub.

You usually hold education fairs. What is it about?

The Furalle Education Fair is more than just an event; its a gateway to global opportunities. We bring together universities, career counselors, and industry experts to connect with students and families. Its a platform for mentorship, networking, and decision-making. We are redefining how education is accessed and experienced in Nigeria and beyond. Being under the tutelage of development and strategic leadership in addition to a career that spans extensive global travel, I am leveraging my exposure to create platforms that democratize access to education.

Is the fair only for foreign universities, or do Nigerian universities participate?

All are welcome; we feature both. Nigerian colleges and universities are part of our plans just as foreign colleges too. Our vision is holistic; highlighting excellence at home while showcasing international opportunities.

How would you describe what you do? Are you a middleman?

Not at all, I am not a middleman but a connector. Our job is to bridge gaps between ambition and opportunity, between students and global resources. I see myself as a strategist and advocate for human capacity development.

How does the fair benefit scholars?

It demystifies the education process. Families can meet admissions officers, learn about scholarships, and receive guidance that would normally take months of research. It saves time, reduces cost, and builds confidence. Let me reiterate that we believe education is the greatest investment in humanitys future. Furalle Education Fair is simply making global opportunities accessible to all. Our purpose shall be a testament to what happens when vision meets courage; a bold reminder that education is the passport to a brighter, more inclusive world.

Who is the Fair designed for; the rich or average families?

It is for everyone. Education is a right, not a privilege. We deliberately include affordable schools, scholarships and financing solutions so that no dream is out of reach. We are committed to democratizing education opportunities for all classes of society.

Is there a platform where professionals in your line of business meet and regulate themselves?

Yes. Were members of global education networks and associations that ensure professionalism and ethics in our operations. Collaboration helps us stay accountable and ahead of industry trends.

What percentage of success will you say youve achieved in your work?

Success is measured by impact, not just numbers. But Im proud to say that over 85% of the students we guide secure admissions or scholarships. For me, success is watching those students come back to make a difference in their communities.

ALSO READ: CVR hits 2.6 million in two weeks — INEC

As a woman, how easy is it to thrive in this field?

Thriving as a woman in business takes grit, innovation, and vision. Ive faced obstacles, but Ive learned to turn challenges into opportunities. My global exposure taught me that value and excellence speak louder than gender biases.

What criteria qualify a student for your scholarship programs?

We look for merit, leadership potential, and a vision for societal impact. Academic excellence is key but so also is character and the ability to give back.

How capital-intensive is it to secure admission through the fair?

The fair showcases a range of schools, from affordable institutions to those offering partial or full scholarships. Our goal is accessibility, not intimidation.