By Omonu YG Nelson
Abuja, Nigeria – February 15, 2024: In a move aimed at alleviating the financial burden of indigent students, the Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Foundation (NAUF) has launched a ₦24 million annual Education Intervention Fund (EDUIFUND) specifically for students from Kogi Central attending public tertiary institutions across Nigeria.
“Education is the bedrock of development,” declared Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, founder of NAUF. “This initiative reflects my deep commitment to ensuring that no Kogi Central student is left behind due to financial constraints. I believe education empowers individuals and communities, and the EDUIFUND is a concrete step towards achieving a brighter future for our youth.”
The ₦24 million fund will be disbursed over the course of a year, with a monthly allocation of ₦2 million. Students can apply for support towards various educational expenses, including tuition fees, books, and accommodation.
Eligibility criteria for applicants are as follows:
Must be a student of a public tertiary institution in Nigeria.
Must be of Kogi Central origin or a resident for at least 10 years.
Must be verified by the NAUF EDUIFUND team as being poor and vulnerable.
Must not have been a previous beneficiary of the NAUF EDUIFUND in the same calendar year.
Applauding the initiative, a final year student at the University of Abuja, John Abiodun, said: “This scholarship is a lifesaver! Many of us struggle to afford basic necessities, let alone tuition fees. The NAUF EDUIFUND will not only ease our financial burden but also motivate us to excel in our studies.”
Echoing similar sentiments, Sarah Ibrahim, a student at Kogi State University, stated: “I am incredibly grateful to Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan for her generosity. This fund will open doors for countless students who dream of furthering their education but lack the means. It is a true investment in the future of Kogi Central.”
Applications for the NAUF EDUIFUND can be submitted via email or in person at Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s constituency office in the applicant’s Local Government Area.
This initiative by the NAUF is a significant step towards bridging the educational gap in Kogi Central and empowering young people to reach their full potential. It is expected to benefit hundreds of students throughout the year, fostering a brighter future for the region.
@Summit Post News