From Fred Ezeh, Abuja
Federal Ministry of Education, yesterday, confirmed the death of two students (names withheld) who were on the Federal Government’s scholarship in Russia.
The students, as gathered, were drowned in a swimming pool in Russia, their country of study.
Director, Federal Scholarship Board, Asta Ndajiwo, confirmed the development in Abuja, yesterday, during the pre-departure briefing of Bilateral Education Agreement (BEA) for 179 scholars departing for Russia for 2023/2024 academic session.
She warned the departing students against engaging in activities, academic or non-academic that would bring shame and reproach to themselves and Nigeria.
“We regret loosing two Nigerians scholars in Russia, who went to swim and in the process, got drowned. We don’t want to lose anyone again. So, we advise you to stay away from water if you cannot cannot swim,” she said.
In his remarks, the Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, encouraged the students to ensure that they uphold good values, focus on their studies and be good ambassadors of Nigeria.
The Minister who was represented by the Director of Universities Education in the Ministry, Hajiya Rakiya Gambo Ilyasu, advised the students not to see exit as uncontrolled freedom to do things that would be a disgrace to themselves, their parents and the country.
“Nigeria is investing a lot in you and expect that the returns of the investment would manifest in your coming back to help move your nation forward.
“You must also strive to abide by the laws of your host country and remember to be your brother’s keeper. Most importantly, you need to make your presence known to the Nigerian Embassy in Moscow. This is very necessary based on our experiences from Ukraine.
“Your parents are also spending a lot of resources on you. Note that we all expect you to return to Nigeria at the end of your studies to assist Nigeria become a better place by contributing your quota to its development, using your new knowledge and skills,” he said.
He enjoined the parents of the awardees to always keep them in prayers and encourage them with sound advice at all times. “You are further advised to make your parents and Nigeria proud by being worthy ambassadors in the country of your studies,” he added.