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February 16, 2024

The National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS, has differed with the comment by the
Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU, that the Federal Government’s student loan scheme would keep the beneficiaries perpetually indebted.

ASUU had also argued after its National Executive Council meeting in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, that the initiative would not allow universities to have enough funds to function effectively.

However, the student body said that contrary to ASUU’s assertions, the scheme represents a ray of hope for many students, particularly those facing financial hardship.

It, therefore, urged the umbrella body of university teachers not to interfere in the implementation of the scheme that would provide access to higher education.

Reacting, NANS Senate President, Akinteye Babatunde, said, “If ASUU has any genuine concerns or reservations about the programme, it should address them openly and transparently.

“It is time for ASUU to prioritise the interests of students and support initiatives that will benefit the entire student community.”

Babatunde said it was disheartening for ASUU to oppose a programme dedicated to providing much-needed relief to countless students.

ASUU, after its NEC meeting, said it was sceptical of the loan scheme because similar ones in better-managed economies failed.

It wondered why the initiative would succeed in a climate where corruption, nepotism, and other unsavoury tendencies killed the Education Bank project after over five years of its existence.