The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has called on the federal government as well as the appropriate agency handling the students’ loan scheme to be transparent in the implementation of the scheme.
This is just as the students, under the aegis of their largest umbrella body also called for an urgent action on the alleged deportation of Nigerian students from Teesside University in the UK for defaulting in the payment of their school fees.
These were contained in a statement by the NANS’ national president, Comrade Pedro Obi, a copy of which was made available to journalists yesterday in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital.
In the statement, Obi called on the federal government to appoint individuals of unquestionable integrity and competence to oversee the disbursement of the student loans scheme so as to guarantee the success and sustainability of the scheme.
NANS insisted that the federal government must take immediate and decisive action to protect the rights and futures of the students abroad.
While commending the President Bola Tinubu administration for initiating the student loan scheme, NANS called on the government to engage all relevant stakeholders in the implementation of the scheme.
According to the student body, the loan if properly implemented would not only alleviate the financial burdens faced by many students and their families, but is also capable of ending the mass exodus of Nigerian students outside the country for studies.
“The loan scheme should be designed to be inclusive and accessible to all eligible students, regardless of their socio-economic background. Criteria for loan eligibility and repayment terms should be clearly defined and communicated to avoid any ambiguity or discrimination.
“We believe that with careful planning and execution, the student loan scheme will not only enhance educational opportunities, but also contribute significantly to the socio-economic development of Nigeria.
“We extend our full support to the Federal government in this endeavor and look forward to seeing the positive impact of this initiative on our nation’s students and educational system,” he said.
