Benin City – In a significant move aimed at bolstering access to higher education, the Edo State Government has announced a partnership with the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) to provide subsidised fees and monthly stipends to students in state-owned tertiary institutions.
The collaboration will enable Edo students to pursue university and tertiary education without immediate upfront payment of school fees, significantly easing the financial burden on families. Additionally, students will receive a monthly stipend to cover living expenses during their studies.
Dr. Pally Iyamu, Commissioner for Education, Edo State, emphasised the government’s commitment to reducing financial barriers to education during a two-day sensitisation program held across the state’s three senatorial districts. He urged students to capitalise on this initiative, highlighting the relief it will provide to parents who previously faced substantial school fee costs.
“This partnership is a testament to our dedication to ensuring that every Edo student has the opportunity to achieve their academic aspirations,” stated Dr. Iyamu. He also expressed gratitude to Senator Monday Okpebholo and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for their roles in creating a pathway for student success, regardless of background.
The initiative is expected to curb student dropout rates and other obstacles to higher education caused by financial constraints.
The two-day sensitisation program, scheduled for March 11th and 12th, 2025, will take place at Edo State Polytechnic, Usen (Edo South), AAU Student Conference Centre, Ekpoma (Edo Central), and Edo University, Iyanmo (Edo North).
NELFUND, a federal government initiative launched by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, provides interest-free loans for higher education, vocational training, and skills acquisition. The scheme, which opened its portal to federal tertiary institution students in May 2024, also offers a monthly stipend of N20,000. Loan repayment is set to commence two years after completion of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).
