Governor pledges N2 billion annually for tuition
Promises automatic employment after graduation
By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum, has sponsored 180 students for postgraduate studies in Malaysia and India. The group includes 12 PhD and 53 master’s students attending Sharda University in India, along with 12 PhD and 73 master’s candidates enrolled at Integral University, India. An additional 29 master’s and PhD students will pursue advanced studies at universities in Malaysia, according to a statement signed by Abdurahaman Bundi, Senior Special Assistant on New Media to the Governor.
During a send-off ceremony at the Government House in Maiduguri on Thursday, Zulum urged the students to commit fully to their education.
“We expect you to show strong dedication to your studies and, in the future, to any professional roles you take on,” Zulum said. “Your education must directly contribute to the development of Borno State. We trust that you will honor this responsibility and use your knowledge to make a positive impact on society.”
The governor also congratulated the students and announced an additional monthly allowance of $150 to support their upkeep during their studies.
“Congratulations on your success, but I must remind you that the government is investing significantly in your education. Nearly N2 billion will be spent annually on your tuition. Additionally, we have approved a monthly upkeep allowance of $150 for each student. Remember, with great opportunities come great responsibilities,” Zulum added.
Automatic Employment Upon Return
Governor Zulum also promised automatic employment for the scholarship beneficiaries upon their return. Some of them will be recruited as lecturers at tertiary institutions in Borno State.
“For those pursuing master’s degrees, strive to obtain your PhD if possible. I am directing the Ministry of Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation to work with our state’s tertiary institutions to recruit some of today’s beneficiaries so they can start working immediately upon their return,” Zulum said.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation, Engr. Lawan Abba Wakilbe, explained that the 180 students are pursuing courses in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields in India and Malaysia. He also noted that while ₦1.99 billion was allocated for foreign scholarships, another ₦338.5 million was disbursed to support 303 local students.
