The Federal Government has terminated its Bilateral Education Agreement Scholarship Programme, which sponsored Nigerian students for university education abroad. According to Minister of Education, Prof. Morufu Olatunji Alausa, the decision is driven by economic realities and a renewed focus on strengthening Nigeria's higher education system.
Alausa noted that Nigerian universities and polytechnics now offer high-quality courses previously only available abroad, making it unnecessary to fund overseas studies with public resources. Existing scholarship beneficiaries will continue to receive support until they complete their studies, but no new students will be sent abroad under the scheme.
The government plans to redirect funds previously allocated for foreign scholarships to improve infrastructure, staffing, and research in Nigerian universities. This move is part of the government's efforts to navigate economic challenges and promote domestic development.
The decision comes amid the fallout from major economic reforms introduced by President Bola Tinubu, which have led to a rise in inflation and worsening living conditions for many Nigerians. Despite this, international institutions like the IMF have praised the reform efforts, acknowledging that gains have yet to benefit all Nigerians.
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