Nigerian students studying abroad under the federal government’s Bilateral Education Agreement (BEA) Scholarship may face difficulties in meeting their financial obligations following the reduction of their allowances by 12.7 percent.
This cut affects students in various countries, including Russia, Morocco, and Algeria, among others.
The reduction, detailed in a memo dated July 23, 2024, addressed to the students’ union, is attributed to the economic crisis and hardship currently facing the country.
The memo was signed by Ndajiwo H.A., Director of the Federal Scholarship Board, on behalf of the Minister of Education, Tahir Mamman.
It also mentioned that the balance owed to students would be paid when funds become available.
The students have been enduring financial strain due to unpaid stipends, with reports indicating delays of up to eight months.
Ayuba Anas, President of the Nigerian students’ association, voiced their plight: “For the past six to eight months, scholars enrolled in various institutions abroad have endured financial strain due to the delay in receiving their stipends.
From the last payments we received (March-August), there was a shortfall of practically two and a half months’ payment.
Moreover, some students in China have not received any stipends since they arrived in April and May 2023.”
The Federal Scholarship Board, under the Federal Ministry of Education, oversees the BEA scholarship, which is an exchange programme between Nigeria and partnering countries.
In light of the economic constraints, the government has adjusted the scholarship allowances for the 2024 academic year.
The monthly allowances have been reduced from $500 to $220, the graduation allowance from $2500 to $2000, and the PG research allowance from $1000 to $500, among other reductions. The total payment per student, initially $5650, is now $4370.
The memo further stated: “After due consultations, the Federal Scholarship Board has come up with adjustments in line with budgetary provisions in the payment of BEA scholar’s supplementation allowances for the 2024 academic year.
The Scholars’ Association is hereby notified that due to the prevailing economic situation, the payment mandate for the BEA scholars’ allowances will be as per the new adjustment.
The balances for the years 2023 and 2024 owed to scholars will be paid as soon as the funds are made available.”
