By Akinsuroju Olubunmi
Presidency delays launch of student loan scheme
The Presidency has announced a delay in the launch of the student loan scheme, with a new date to be announced later.
Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, confirmed this after Wednesday’s Federal Executive Council meeting in Abuja, assuring that the programme has not been forgotten.
Explaining the postponement, Onanuga cited the need for some adjustments to ensure a proper launch, reaffirming President Tinubu’s commitment to the initiative as one of his flagship programmes.
Initially scheduled for Thursday, March 14, the launch of the Fund was postponed, prompting clarification from the Presidency that the programme remains a priority.
The delay follows earlier plans outlined by President Tinubu, including the signing of the Access to Higher Education Act, 2023, which paved the way for interest-free loans for indigent students.
Despite previous timelines set for the scheme’s commencement, such as September and January 2024, various adjustments have been made, including expanding the Fund’s mandate to include students seeking loans for skills development.
President Tinubu emphasized the importance of accommodating diverse educational aspirations, not limited to university degrees, by incorporating skill development programmes into the initiative.
While the postponement is not indefinite, the government assures readiness for the launch, urging students to be prepared to apply for loans once the scheme is officially inaugurated.
Presidency, student loan scheme, delay, launch, President Tinubu