By Ayodele Oni
As the world observes Friday November 17, as this year’s International Students’ Day, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Students Engagement, Sunday Asefon has assured the commitment of the administration to ensure access to education.
In a statement to mark the day, Asefon, said that the free shuttle buses for students, access to loans and appointment of youths into positions are some of the incentives of the administration to encourage the.
“Following the global adoption and domestication of this day, I extend the warm regards of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, an education loving President, a champion of unconditional full and free Access to Tertiary Educational, a passionate lover of Students and Youth, whose administration has placed an unprecedented and premium value on education, and Youth development.
“Indeed, it is a blessing to the Nigerian student community that the Renewed Hope administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has placed an uncommon priority on education and fostering Youth development which is evident in the programs and actions of the administration so far.
“These programs and initiatives are not limited to: Students Loans (Access to Higher Education) Act, 2023, Approval of CNG Buses for Student Union Governments and National Students bodies.
“Presidential Directive on No increase in school fees by Federal Institutions, Appointment of an erudite scholar with highest education qualifications ‘Professor’ to mount and supervise education ministry among others in six month into the administration and Appointment of young, qualified Nigerians as Ministers to oversee the Youth ministry.
“These are unprecedented and a practical demonstration of commitment beyond mere Promises which symbolized a renewed sense of hope and a fresh beginning, emphasizing enhanced welfare, inclusivity, and the establishment of a more supportive environment for Nigerian Students.
“I encourage Nigerian students to stay optimistic, resolute, and dedicated to the renewed Hope agenda, as this government remains committed to supporting students and fostering the optimal educational environment in Nigeria.
“Let me also use this medium to announce to Nigerian Students that to further demonstrate the practical dedication of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to education and Student development, the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Student Engagement will soon launch the Renewed Hope Academic Excellence Reward Scheme in collaboration with key stakeholders.
“This initiative aims to recognize and encourage the top graduating students annually from every tertiary institution in Nigeria, further details to be provided later.
“I therefore call on Nigerian Students, leaders and cadres of Student movements across Nigeria to join hands and support the Renewed Hope administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu by maintaining peace and order in all their campuses while the government navigates the path to a prosperous Nigeria as contained in the Renewed Hope Agenda.”
