From Fred Ezeh, Abuja
Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFund) has commenced sensitization campaign to schools in the south east starting with Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University and Federal Polytechnic, Nekede.
This was, perhaps, in response to the recent document released by NELFund which indicated that no institution from the south east institutions yet benefitted from the student loan programme being implemented by the Federal Government.
Managing Director of NELFund, Mr. Akintunde Sawyerr led the campaign, and was accompanied by the Executive Director (Operations) of the Fund, Mr.Mustapha Iyal and other staff members reaffirming NELFund’s commitment to supporting Nigerian students.
NELFund, in a statement, on Friday, indicated that the sensitization campaign which it jointly organized with the national leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), was intended to enlighten the schools and its students about the programme being implemented by NELFund, its intended objectives and how they could leverage on it to improve access to education.
Speaking at Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Mr. Akintunde Sawyerr, Managing Director/CEO of NELFund, highlighted the importance of the programme in helping Nigerian students overcome financial barriers to education.
He said: “It is a great honor to be here at this prestigious institution, a beacon of academic excellence in the south east. This sensitization programme is a crucial step in ensuring that every Nigerian student has access to the financial resources necessary to pursue their educational goals.”
Mr. Sawyerr said the NELFund initiative has been empowered to reach every corner of the country, ensuring that no student is marginalized.
He emphasized the importance of institutions in the South East actively participating in the loan scheme by submitting student data promptly and accurately to ensure seamless loan disbursements.
“President Tinubu’s commitment to education is unwavering, and we are ensuring that every Nigerian student has an equal opportunity to benefit from this scheme, regardless of their region or background,” Mr. Sawyerr added.
He also urged South East students to take full advantage of the NELFund student loan scheme, which provides both tuition fees and living expenses, thereby giving students the financial stability needed, to excel in their studies.
Mr. Sawyerr called on the leadership of all South East institutions to play their part by ensuring that student data are submitted accurately and on time, in order to address challenges that have led to some delays in disbursement.
“Your role is crucial in this process. Timely submission of data will prevent delays and ensure that every eligible student receives their loan without unnecessary interruptions to their studies,” he said.
Speaking at a similar engagement at the Federal Polytechnic, Nekede, Mr Sawyerr reiterated NELFund’s commitment to equitable distribution of the student loans, emphasizing that no region, particularly the South East, would be marginalized.
“We are here to assure you that every Nigerian student, especially in the South East, has a stake in this initiative. It was designed to uplift all students, empowering them to contribute to national development,” he stated.
Mr. Sawyerr used the platform to urge students across both institutions to freely submit applications for the student loan, assuring them that the application process has been simplified for ease of access.
“This is about investing in your future, not just providing loans. It is an opportunity for you to focus on your studies without the distraction of financial concerns,” he added.
He appreciated the national leadership of NANS for their support and strong partnership with NELFund in ensuring that the scheme reaches those who need it the most.
“Together, we can build a brighter future for our nation, one student at a time. NELFund is here to ensure that your academic journey is not hindered by financial limitations,” Mr. Sawyerr added.
Meanwhile, the leadership of both Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University and Federal Polytechnic, Nekede, commended NELFund’s dedication to education, and assured their cooperation in facilitating a smooth disbursement process.
