Two final-year students of Medicine and Surgery at Ebonyi State University Abakaliki, Emmanuella and Ogar, have received scholarship grants worth ₦200,000 each from the Academic Staff Union of Universities. During the cheque presentation to students in Abakaliki, Dr Okechukwu Igwenyi, ASUU Chairman of Ebonyi State University chapter, emphasised that the selection process for beneficiaries was rigorous yet fair and easily understood. In his address, he emphasised the injustice of threatening the ASUU, a group often associated with strikes and labour disputes.
He stressed that in addition to advocating for better funding and protecting university autonomy, they prioritise supporting students through annual scholarships for deserving students in Nigerian public universities. He explained that the rulers are covertly driving up the cost of education, making it unattainable for average Nigerians. The expenses for tuition, food, supplies, and other miscellaneous items have become excessively high, making it impossible for ordinary individuals to afford. As a result, students determined to continue their studies have resorted to extreme measures to remain in school and obtain a university education.
Economic challenges increase student dropout rates across the country.
Also, the challenging economic circumstances faced by students and parents have led to a significant increase in the dropout rate of talented and hardworking students due to financial struggles and despair. Igwenyi raised the alarm about the poor student Welfare conditions, lack of security, and the unstable national economy. Consequently, some students have resorted to alternative ways of earning money to cover their tuition fees and necessities. Most students need to be made aware of the Bursary awards offered by state and local governments.
They need to realise that any ordinary student has the opportunity to earn a scholarship or grant based on their merit. For many years, they have been operating a scholarship program that offers research support worth ₦500,000 as a Ph.D. Research Grant to chosen ASUU members in Nigerian public universities. So far, three members have received assistance from this initiative. Apart from their members, they prioritise their students in their strategy. It is crucial to note that ASUU’s National Executive Council has been using funds from their deductions and awarding scholarships to deserving students nationwide as part of their Corporate Social Responsibility.
Scholarships help Nigerian students with financial needs and necessities.
This process is based on strict yet transparent criteria. He observed that ASUU-EBSU has consistently nominated successful students for university awards over the past few years. Ms. Onwe Emmanuella expressed her joy upon receiving the scholarship award, mentioning that the ₦200,000 would cover her due school fees. After a lengthy wait for the screening results, she was overjoyed to receive them, finally feeling upliftment. She expressed surprise at the outcome but couldn’t contain her happiness.
Furthermore, the scholarship provided by the ASUU-EBSU chapter has come as a great relief to the recipients. While this will cover the overdue school fees, it will further grant her the opportunity to enrol in additional courses she has wanted to take. The second recipient, Ogar Peter, expressed how the financial support will greatly assist in meeting his essential educational requirements. Both students are grateful for the opportunity to continue their Education without the burden of financial constraints holding them back.
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In addition, he called on other students to be aware of available bursaries and scholarships, urging them to take advantage of such opportunities and emphasising that ASUU remains committed to supporting education and alleviating the financial burdens on students. He encouraged well-meaning individuals and organisations to emulate this gesture by contributing to educational scholarships and grants. Moreso, the scholarship award not only eases the financial strain on students but also highlights the role of ASUU in promoting educational advancement and providing opportunities for needy students to achieve their academic dreams.