NELFUND Sensitises South East Tertiary Institutions About Student Loan
By Alice Etuka, Abuja
In its ongoing mission to expand access to education and support students across Nigeria, the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) took its student loan sensitization program to the South East on Thursday, visiting Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University in Anambra State and the Federal Polytechnic, Nekede, Imo State.
This is according to a statement issued by Nasir Ayitogo for the Director, Corporate Communications of NELFUND on Friday, September 6, 2024.
The event, organized by the national leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) in collaboration with NELFUND, saw Fund warmly received by the leadership of both institutions, with key ofey management staff and hundreds of students in attendance.
Speaking at Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Mr. Akintunde Sawyerr, Managing Director/CEO of NELFUND, highlighted the importance of the program in helping Nigerian students overcome financial barriers to education.
“It is a great honor to be here at this prestigious institution, a beacon of academic excellence in the South East,” said Mr. Sawyerr. “This sensitization program is a crucial step in ensuring that every Nigerian student has access to the financial resources necessary to pursue their educational goals.”
The MD said the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the NELFUND initiative has been empowered to reach every corner of the country, ensuring that no student is marginalized.
Mr. Sawyerr 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 remarked.
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.
Addressing challenges that have led to some delays in disbursement, Sawyerr called on the leadership of all South East institutions to play their part by ensuring that student data is submitted accurately and on time.
“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 later 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 is designed to uplift all students, empowering them to contribute to national development,” he stated.
NELFUND’s visit comes at a critical time when many students are facing financial challenges. Sawyerr used the platform to urge students across both institutions to apply 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.
The event, organized by NANS, reflects the strong partnership between Nigerian students and NELFUND in ensuring that the scheme reaches those who need it the most.
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.
The MD who 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.
“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.
