The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Bauchi State zone, has voiced its strong opposition against the introduction of student loans, advocating for grants as a more suitable means to fund students’ education. Expressing concern over arbitrary fee hikes leading to potential dropouts, the ASUU Zonal body is compiling data on students affected by these financial burdens.
During the scholarship award ceremony for 19 indigent undergraduates at Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU), Bauchi, the Zonal Coordinator, Associate Professor Lazarus Maigoro, emphasized the need to replace student loans with grants. He highlighted the detrimental impact of loans on students’ mental well-being, stressing the psychological distress students may face graduating with substantial debts they can’t repay.
Maigoro questioned the sustainability of loans, pondering who would bear the repayment burden and expressing concern for students unable to access such loans. He noted the adverse effects such financial stress could have on students’ academic performance.
ATBU’s ASUU branch Chairman, Ibrahim Inuwa, echoed the union’s commitment to advocating for quality tertiary education. He reassured the audience of the union’s dedication to recognizing and awarding scholarships to brilliant but underprivileged students as part of their annual event. The union continues to champion the collective interests of quality education for all.
