FG Prioritizes Welfare Of Students On Bilateral Scholarship Prog

The Federal Government, through the Ministry of Education has once again reaffirmed its commitment to the welfare of Nigerian students studying abroad under the Bilateral Education Agreement (BEA) Scholarship Programme.

The BEA Programme, a product of strong diplomatic relations and mutual cooperation, enables Nigerian students to pursue academic studies in partner countries such as China, Russia, Algeria, Hungary, Morocco, Egypt, and Serbia.

Through these agreements, host countries provide beneficiaries with free tuition, accommodation, and monthly stipends, while the Federal Government of Nigeria complements this support with take-off grants, monthly supplementation throughout the study period and return passage upon successful completion of their programmes.

In a Statement by the Director of Press in the ministry of Education,Mrs Boriowo Folasade notes that all supplementary allowances due to Nigerian scholars have been paid up to December 2024.

According to the statement this reflects the Minister of Education’s sustained efforts to prioritise the needs of Nigerian students abroad.

The statement acknowledges the recent exchange rate fluctuations, which led to shortfalls in fund disbursement.

It explains that the Minister of Education had to request additional funding to cover the differentials and ensure the full remittance of entitlements to all affected students.

According to the statement, provisions for the scholarship programme have been captured under the Federal Ministry of Education’s Capital Budget.

It says in line with the extension of the 2024 Capital Budget, disbursement of funds under the 2025 Capital Budget, it is expected to commence in earnest once implementation begins.

The statement which says the Ministry assures all stakeholders of its unwavering commitment to support Nigerian scholars abroad is working diligently to meet all obligations under the BEA in a timely and effective manner.

It further appreciates the patience and understanding of all students and their families and reaffirm dedication to the continued success of the Bilateral Education Agreement Programme.

PR/Nkiruka Okeke