The National Association of Nigerian Students in Europe (NANSE) President, Bashiru Muhammad, has called on Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal to urgently pay the tuition fees of Zamfara state students studying in Cyprus. These students face an impending crisis that threatens not only their academic futures but also their safety and well-being.
Muhammad, in statement made available to newsmen on Thursday, said “For several years, the Zamfara State government has lagged in fulfilling its financial commitments to students pursuing higher education abroad.
“This chronic failure has now reached a critical point, because as exams loom, these young scholars find themselves unable to sit for their assessments due to unpaid tuition fees, putting their educational aspirations in jeopardy.
“The situation has become dire, as many of these students are on the brink of expulsion from their respective institutions. Without the ability to write their exams, their academic progression is halted, and their dreams of achieving degrees that can contribute to the development of Zamfara State are dashed,” he stated.
Muhammad’s plea is not merely about education; it is a call to prevent potential descent into desperation and criminality. “We are deeply concerned about the future of our students in Cyprus. Without financial support, they are at risk of engaging in activities that could tarnish their reputation and that of Zamfara State,” he emphasized.
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The risks are real. Stranded far from home and support networks, these students are vulnerable to exploitation and criminal activities. Desperation could drive some to make choices that compromise their values and jeopardize their futures. This scenario is not just a loss for the students but a significant blow to Zamfara’s efforts in human capital development.
The NANSE President’s appeal underscores the broader implications of neglecting these students. Education is a pivotal investment in any society’s future. By failing to support these students, Zamfara State risks losing a generation of potential leaders, innovators, and professionals who could contribute to the state’s progress and development.
Governor Lawal’s administration has an opportunity to rectify this situation and demonstrate a commitment to education and youth development. By promptly addressing the tuition fee arrears, the state government can restore hope and provide these students with the stability they need to complete their studies.
Moreover, this intervention can serve as a reassurance to other students and parents that the Zamfara State government values education and is dedicated to fulfilling its promises. It is a chance to build trust and show that the government is responsive to the needs of its citizens, particularly its youth.
Muhammad’s call to action is a reminder that the stakes are high, but so are the rewards. By investing in these students, Zamfara State can foster a well-educated, skilled, and motivated workforce capable of driving the state’s development forward. The ripple effects of this investment will be felt across various sectors, contributing to economic growth, social stability, and improved quality of life for all Zamfara residents.
The urgency of this situation cannot be overstated. As exams draw nearer, the window for intervention narrows. Governor Lawal and his administration must act swiftly to ensure that these students do not miss their exams and can continue their education without further hindrance.
In conclusion, the call from NANSE is not just an appeal for financial support; it is a plea for justice, opportunity, and the future of Zamfara State. By addressing the tuition fee crisis for students in Cyprus, Governor Lawal can make a profound difference in the lives of these young scholars and, by extension, the future prosperity of Zamfara State.
