The Academic Staff Union of Universities has awarded scholarships totaling over N164 million to 164 financially disadvantaged students across Nigeria, as part of its ongoing commitment to support indigent scholars in public universities.
According to The PUNCH, the Convener of the ASUU Grant, Research and Publications Committee, Professor Christopher Piwuna, said the 2024 disbursement reflects the union’s resolve to ease financial burdens on underprivileged students.
Each recipient received a scholarship grant of N200,000 after undergoing a rigorous selection process across 79 ASUU branches nationwide. Two students were chosen from each institution based on merit and economic need.
“We ensured a transparent process in selecting the beneficiaries, with emphasis on academic performance and proof of indigence,” Piwuna said. He was represented at the event by former ASUU Bauchi-Zone Coordinator, Lawan Abubakar.
According to him, “The scholarship also prioritised gender inclusivity and support for students with disabilities. We believe in giving equal opportunities to all.”
He revealed that over the past two years, ASUU has spent approximately N164.8 million on scholarships for indigent undergraduates through its own initiative, alongside the well-known Gani Fawehinmi scholarship program.
Piwuna criticized the rising costs of education, arguing that government policies and charges have continued to place undue pressure on students and their families.
“Our stance on the NELFUND loan scheme remains clear. We believe educational aid should come as a grant, not a burden. ASUU does not ask beneficiaries of its scholarships to pay back a kobo,” he said.
ASUU stated that eligible students must demonstrate economic hardship and possess an excellent Cumulative Grade Point Average to qualify for the scholarship.
