Zulum sponsors 180 postgraduates on foreign scholarship
…Offers automatic employment for scholarship beneficiaries
Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum has sponsored 180 students for higher education in Malaysia and India.
Among the recipients are 12 PhD candidates and 53 master’s students set to study at Sharda University in India, as well as another 12 PhD and 73 master’s candidates at Integral University.
Additionally, 29 students will pursue advanced degrees at various universities in Malaysia.
During a send-off ceremony at the Government House in Maiduguri, Governor Zulum encouraged the students to fully commit to their studies.
He stated, “We expect each of you to demonstrate strong dedication to your education and, in the future, to any professional roles you take on. Your commitment is essential for ensuring that your education contributes to the development and progress of Borno State.
“We trust that you will embrace this responsibility and apply the knowledge and skills you acquire to make a positive impact on our society.”
Zulum congratulated the beneficiaries and announced that a monthly allowance of approximately $150 has been approved to support their living expenses.
He said, “At this point, I want to congratulate you on your achievements. However, I must remind you that the government is making a significant investment in your education, with nearly N2 billion allocated annually for your tuition alone.
“Furthermore, I have instructed that a monthly allowance of $150 be provided for your upkeep. Remember, with great opportunities come great responsibilities.”
…Offers automatic employment for scholarship beneficiaries
Governor Zulum equally announced that scholarship recipients will receive automatic employment upon completing their studies.
He indicated that some graduates would be offered teaching positions at various tertiary institutions in Borno State.
“Those of you pursuing master’s degrees should strive to obtain your PhD whenever possible. I am directing the Ministry of Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation to work with local universities to explore hiring some of today’s beneficiaries so they can begin working immediately upon their return,” Zulum stated.
Earlier, Engr. Lawan Abba Wakilbe, the Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation, explained that the 180 beneficiaries are enrolled in programs focused on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) in India and Malaysia.
He also mentioned that approximately N1,988,670,230 has been allocated for their tuition fees, along with N338,500,000 for local scholarships benefiting 303 additional students.
