Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has approved a bursary fund of ₦1 billion for indigenes of the state currently studying in tertiary institutions across Nigeria.
This major financial intervention is aimed at reducing the economic burden of higher education on students and their families while also promoting academic excellence and youth development.
The announcement was made during a recent town hall meeting held with youths from various parts of the state. The meeting provided a platform for young people to express their concerns, share ideas, and make direct appeals to the governor regarding educational and socio-economic challenges.
According to a statement released on Sunday by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, the bursary programme will benefit only students of Edo State origin who are enrolled in recognized tertiary institutions nationwide.
Eligibility will be determined through a verification process conducted via the applicants’ respective local government areas, to ensure that only legitimate indigenes of the state benefit from the initiative.
The governor emphasized that this ₦1 billion bursary fund is not a one-off disbursement but is intended to become an annual scheme under his administration.
He affirmed that the bursary will be institutionalized to support future generations of Edo students, reinforcing his commitment to education and human capital development.
Governor Okpebholo further reiterated that the bursary programme is in line with his administration’s broader educational policy, which seeks to expand access to quality education, provide support for students from disadvantaged backgrounds, and harness the potential of Edo youth for the overall development of the state and the nation.
The governor also responded positively to other passionate requests made by various youth leaders during the town hall, indicating that his government is open to engaging with young people and addressing their most pressing needs.
Fred Itua noted that more comprehensive details regarding the application process, eligibility requirements, and timelines for disbursement would be released in due course by the relevant government agencies.
This latest initiative underscores the administration’s recognition of education as a powerful tool for empowerment and development, as well as its determination to ensure that Edo youths are well-positioned to compete and succeed both nationally and globally.