Senator Victor Umeh of Anambra Central Senatorial Zone has advised students in his scholarship program not to apply for the federal government’s student loan plan.
Umeh made this statement yesterday during the Anambra Central Scholarship Programme in Awka, which benefited 223 students from various tertiary institutions across the zone’s seven local governments.
While addressing the beneficiaries, the senator warned them that the federal government’s student loan program was not free, but a repayable loan.
He said: “I want to thank Tinubu for the students loan scheme. It is a scheme that is obtainable in many advanced countries and students are entitled to loans for their education.
“Now that you have a scholarship, please don’t go and apply for the student loan scheme off the federal government, so that you don’t occupy other people’s chances.
“That loan is refundable, but this one is not refundable. Those who do not have the opportunity that you have can go for the student loan scheme.”
Umeh stated that the system has been in place for several years and that this year’s program, which includes 223 students costs N37 million.
He stated that over 300 students had graduated from the scheme in various tertiary institutions across the country and a wide range of fields, including medicine.
While addressing the beneficiaries, Umeh stated: “Many of you will get more than what you submitted as your scholarship fund. The remainder will enable you run certain expenses in school.
“We have been doing this over time. When I couldn’t get reelection at some point, some people thought I was going to stop the programme, but what I did was to officially transfer them to my personal foundation, and they continued their education.
“For nursing students amongst you, I felt there was no need to give you 200k scholarship and you go and start looking for 300k. So, we have decided to pay for all of you in full.
“What I’m out for is honest representation. There is no money I will attract for you people that will be put to my personal use. We have totaled the fees and it’s N37million and the bank will credit all the 223 beneficiaries by tomorrow.”