In a resolute stance, the Bauchi zone of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), has reiterated its rejection of students’ loans, emphasizing the preference for grants to facilitate students’ educational funding.
Associate Professor Lazarus Maigoro, the Bauchi zonal coordinator of ASUU, conveyed this stance on Saturday, highlighting the union’s commitment to ensuring students have access to financial support without incurring debts.
Maigoro disclosed that the Bauchi ASUU zone is actively compiling statistics on students who may face the risk of dropping out at the end of the current academic session. The union aims to leverage this data to encourage the government to reconsider its position on student loans and replace them with grants.
Addressing the concerns surrounding student loans, Maigoro questioned the feasibility of repayment and expressed apprehension about the psychological impact on students during their studies. He emphasized the potential negative effect on academic performance and the stress associated with graduating with a substantial loan amount, particularly for those without the means to repay.
During the proceedings, Comrade Ibrahim Inuwa, the ATBU branch chairperson, asserted that ASUU is committed to acting as a socially responsible union. He pledged the union’s continued dedication to advocating for the collective interests of quality tertiary education, further underscoring the importance of providing financial support to students through grants rather than loans.
