Eighteen students of Bayero University, Kano (BUK), who are struggling financially, have each received a ₦100,000 scholarship from the university’s branch of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).
Speaking at the award ceremony on Tuesday, the Chairperson of ASUU-BUK, Dr Ibrahim Tajo-Siraj, said the support targets students who are academically sound but face financial hardship.
“At ASUU, we are not just lecturers, but mentors and builders of society. We work closely with our students, many of whom come from humble backgrounds, but are full of potential,” he said. “This scholarship is one of the ways we ensure that no student is left behind because of financial hardship.”
Tajo-Siraj said the initiative is one of ASUU’s major programmes at both national and branch levels, stressing that the union is committed to inclusive education regardless of background.
He explained that ASUU nationally gives ₦200,000 each to two students from over 80 branches every year. At BUK, in addition to the two national recipients, the union awards ₦100,000 each to 16 more students, making 18 beneficiaries in total.
The funds, he said, come from voluntary monthly deductions from members’ salaries.
“Our members are not rich, but we believe in the power of collective sacrifice to uplift others. It is a responsibility we take seriously and proudly,” he added.
Tajo-Siraj noted that ASUU-BUK has been running the scholarship scheme for more than ten years, and many former beneficiaries have gone on to graduate and contribute meaningfully to the country.
He urged the new recipients to remain focused on their studies.
Also present at the ceremony was the university’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Sagir Abbas, represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Management Services), Prof. Aliyu Mu’azu. He commended ASUU for its efforts.
“I congratulate the union for this noble gesture. Without such initiatives, many may not fully understand the financial challenges students face,” Abbas said.
He also advised ASUU to always keep the university management informed about the scholarship for broader recognition and awareness.
Prof. Muhammad Waziri, who convened the scholarship committee, said over 100 applications were received this year.
“We received over 100 applications; this support is to ensure that you continue your education. We hope to support more students in the coming years,” Waziri said.
One of the recipients, Muhammad Adamu, who spoke on behalf of the beneficiaries, expressed gratitude to ASUU.
“We are deeply grateful to ASUU for this timely assistance. May God continue to strengthen the union in its selfless service to students,” he said.
NAN
