President Bola Tinubu has pledged to tackle the issue of school fees hikes in public learning institutions nationwide. The assurance came during a meeting with the leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) at the Aso Rock Villa, Abuja.
NANS President, Lucky Emonefe, disclosed details of the closed-door discussions, expressing Tinubu’s commitment to resolving critical issues in education. Emonefe stated that the President assured them of addressing challenges faced by students in higher institutions and putting an end to the increasing trend of school fees.
Furthermore, amidst anticipation over the long-awaited student loan scheme, President Tinubu announced its imminent launch within the next two weeks. The scheme aims to provide financial support to students, including vocational training, in an effort to enhance access to education.
Commenting on the delay in the implementation of the student loan scheme, Emonefe highlighted the expansion initiated by the President to incorporate vocational training, which he commended. He assured that all necessary steps had been taken to commence the scheme promptly, with President Tinubu set to officiate its launch.
Additionally, the President’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, assured NANS of the government’s readiness to prevent any potential industrial action by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU). Gbajabiamila expressed confidence in averting future strikes, reaffirming President Tinubu’s determination to eliminate disruptions in academic activities.
During the visit, NANS expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for the student loan scheme and the release of funds for educational infrastructure development through interventions like UBEC and TETFund. Emonefe reiterated the students’ concerns regarding the high cost of living, school fees hikes, and other challenges faced by Nigerian students.
President Tinubu assured NANS of his commitment to addressing these issues, promising to include more youths in his government and emphasizing the importance of making the student loan scheme effective in providing access to education for all.
