Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State has rescued hundreds of Kaduna-origin students stranded in foreign universities by settling over N407 million in outstanding tuition fees.
The state-sponsored students, abandoned under the previous administration, faced various challenges, including the inability to graduate, renew visas, and access academic records due to unpaid fees.
The total amount owed by the students to foreign institutions was $247,235.84, which converts to N407,937,750 at the current exchange rate.
Among the institutions benefiting from the settlement are Debrecen University in the UK and Hungary, which received $51,400 (N84,810,000); the University of Wollongong in Dubai, which got $13,827.08 (N22,814,550); the Medical University in Havana, which was paid $164,010 (N270,616,500); and KIU IUIU in Uganda, which received $17,998 (N29,696,700).
Professor Yahya Saleh Ibrahim, Executive Secretary of the Kaduna State Scholarship and Loans Board, said the students were in dire situations, with many unable to continue their education or even retrieve academic records due to the accumulated debts.
The governor’s intervention is part of his administration’s commitment to human capital development, aiming to expand educational opportunities for students, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Governor Sani has also ensured that tuition fees for students enrolled in foreign universities from 2023 onward are fully covered.
In addition, he has directed the Scholarship and Loans Board to liaise with international universities to verify the status of any outstanding payments, ensuring that no student is left behind due to financial challenges. Sani’s administration has proactively created initiatives that equip young people with skills and opportunities to thrive, helping them overcome obstacles like financial instability.
For many students, studying abroad represents a significant step towards personal and professional growth. However, the financial strain can cause immense hardship, sometimes leading to deportation or academic failure.
Governor Sani’s intervention is more than just an act of kindness; it is a strategic investment in the future of Kaduna State, ensuring these students can complete their studies and return home with valuable skills to contribute to the state’s growth.
This initiative not only offers relief to the students but also sends a powerful message about the importance of education in fostering development.
By prioritising education, especially for those who face financial barriers, the governor is setting the stage for long-term growth, social equity, and economic stability in Kaduna.
As these students complete their education and return home, they will help drive the state’s socioeconomic development, furthering Sani’s vision of transforming Kaduna into a key economic hub in Nigeria. The initiative also enhances the state’s reputation globally, showing that Kaduna is committed to building a skilled workforce, which is essential for attracting foreign investment and partnerships.
Ultimately, Governor Sani’s swift action to clear the school fees has brought renewed hope to these students, empowering them to complete their education and return home to contribute meaningfully to their community and the state’s development.
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