Student Loan Program Integrates Skill Acquisition Initiatives

President Bola Tinubu issued a directive on Monday, instructing the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) to extend interest-free loans to Nigerian students interested in skill-development programs. The directive came after a comprehensive briefing from Mr. Akintunde Sawyerr, the Executive Secretary of NELFUND, outlining the preparations for the upcoming launch of the program later this month.

In a statement titled ‘President Tinubu directs expansion of the student-loan programme to include skill development,’ Ajuri Ngelale, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, disclosed this information on Monday. The statement highlighted President Tinubu’s emphasis on the importance of accommodating individuals who may opt not to pursue traditional university education. Tinubu stressed that the inclusion of skill acquisition programs is crucial, acknowledging their significance alongside traditional academic qualifications at the undergraduate and graduate levels.

The decision signifies a strategic move towards fostering a more inclusive and versatile education system, recognizing the diverse aspirations and career paths that students may choose beyond conventional academic pursuits.