Last Updated on 25 July 2024 by Naijadazz
In a recent development, the Federal Government has decided to cut allowances for Nigerian students stranded abroad by 12.7%, citing economic difficulties at home. This reduction affects scholars in Russia, Morocco, Algeria, and other countries, significantly impacting their welfare.
These students, who are part of the Bilateral Educational Agreement (BEA) Scholarship, were quick to express their dismay. They pointed out the severe challenges they face, having not received any allowances for over 13 months. Ronald Donald, one of the affected scholars, highlighted the dire situation, noting that living costs in Russia and Morocco have skyrocketed. For instance, bread prices in Russia have nearly doubled, and in Morocco, students must rent apartments starting at $200 per month as no hostels are provided.
The government’s decision was communicated through a memo from the Federal Scholarship Board, signed by Director Ndajiwo H.A. on behalf of the Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman. The memo explained that the fluctuating domestic exchange rate had made it unsustainable to maintain the current allowance rates. As a result, monthly supplementation allowances have been reduced from $500 to $220, postgraduate research allowances from $1,000 to $500, and passage/graduation allowances from $2,500 to $2,000. However, some allowances remain unchanged, including the annual warm clothing allowance at $250, health insurance at $200, pilot allowance at $700, and medical allowance at $500.
The BEA Scholarship, managed by the Federal Scholarship Board under the Ministry of Education, facilitates educational exchanges between Nigeria and partner countries. The recent cut in allowances has added to the already significant challenges faced by these scholars, who have been struggling to make ends meet without their promised stipends.
Donald also revealed that the Russian embassy has been providing loans to students in dire need, which are expected to be repaid once the Federal Scholarship Board disburses the overdue allowances. Despite these efforts, the students remain frustrated, feeling that the reduction in stipends is a further blow to their already difficult situation.
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