Abuja: The Federal Government has announced a significant increase in scholarship grants, approving a 50 per cent rise across all academic levels. This move is part of a comprehensive overhaul of the national scholarship programme, aimed at bolstering investment in youth development.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Dr. Tunji Alausa, the Minister of Education, revealed the details during a high-level meeting with officials of the Federal Scholarship Board in Abuja. The scholarship budget for the 2025-2026 cycle has been set at N6 billion, with the goal of reducing students' financial burdens and promoting inclusive national development. The reforms are intended to align education investments with Nigeria's long-term economic objectives.
Dr. Alausa highlighted that the initiative is in line with President Bola Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda, which aspires to transform Nigeria into a $1 trillion economy through strategic investments in education. The revamped scholarship programme focuses on enhancing merit-based access and improving economic relevance while increasing financial support to students.
The reforms include prioritizing education in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, Medical Sciences (STEMM), and vocational training. To address rising education costs and ensure equitable access to quality learning, scholarship amounts have been increased by 50 per cent. PhD students will now receive N750,000 annually, up from N500,000; Master's students will receive N600,000, up from N400,000; and undergraduate, HND, and NCE students will receive N450,000 annually, up from N300,000.
Additionally, Dr. Alausa will attend the 17th BRICS Summit at the invitation of Brazilian President Lula da Silva, where discussions will focus on strengthening cooperation in social, economic, and environmental development across the Global South. The summit's theme is "Strengthening Global South Cooperation for More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance."