Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has urged President Bola Tinubu to extend the Student Loan Scheme to encompass students enrolled in private universities. Speaking during the inauguration of the Asiwaju Onafowokan, Coleman Wires and Cables building at Bells University’s College of Postgraduate Studies in Ota, Ogun State, Obasanjo underscored the significance of ensuring equitable access to educational opportunities.
Obasanjo emphasized that the inclusion of students from private universities in the loan scheme is imperative for fostering educational equity and enhancing access to higher education. He noted that denying students from private institutions access to the scheme could lead to disparities in educational opportunities, hindering national development efforts.
Expressing concerns about potential corruption within the scheme's administration, Obasanjo urged caution and vigilance to ensure its effective implementation. Despite his reservations, he reiterated the importance of establishing and maintaining mechanisms to prevent corrupt practices, emphasizing the scheme's crucial role in societal development and citizen welfare.
The former president, who is also the proprietor of Bells University of Technology, highlighted the broader societal benefits of expanding the loan scheme. He emphasized that investing in education is essential for building a skilled workforce, driving innovation, and fostering economic growth. Therefore, he urged the government to consider the long-term benefits of extending the scheme to students in private universities.
Obasanjo's call for inclusivity in the Student Loan Scheme comes amidst statements from the CEO of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, Mr. Akintunde Sawyerr, indicating that students in private institutions are currently excluded from the scheme. This discrepancy raises questions about the government's commitment to ensuring equal access to educational opportunities for all students, regardless of their university affiliation.
As stakeholders continue to debate the expansion of the Student Loan Scheme, the need for comprehensive policies that promote educational equity and foster national development remains paramount. Obasanjo's intervention underscores the importance of addressing systemic barriers to access higher education and ensuring that all students have the opportunity to pursue their academic aspirations.
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