Katsina governor flags off ₦2.6bn bursary, to establish scholarship trust fund

Governor Dikko Umaru Radda of Katsina State on Wednesday flagged off the 2024/2025 bursary allowances and awards presentation, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to ensuring that no child in the state is denied access to education due to financial constraints.

Speaking at the ceremony in Katsina, Radda disclosed that his administration has invested over ₦2.6 billion in scholarships and bursary support, benefiting thousands of students at home and abroad.

According to him, “When we assumed office, we made a solemn pledge that financial hardship should never deprive a child in Katsina State of the right to education. Today, we thank Allah for guiding our administration to fulfil this promise with sincerity and results,” the governor said.

Read also: Radda preaches unity, love, tolerance on Christmas

Radda revealed that his administration introduced the Academic Excellence Award to celebrate hard work, noting that many beneficiaries are now first-class graduates with secured employment.

He expressed pride in the state’s growing global educational footprint, disclosing that sons and daughters of Katsina from all 34 local government areas are currently studying artificial intelligence, bioengineering and medicine abroad through transparent, merit-based sponsorship.

“These are strategic investments in health, technology, innovation and leadership. When they return, they will strengthen our institutions, improve healthcare, enhance technology adoption and build a stronger Katsina State capable of competing globally,” he said.

The governor also commissioned new facilities at the Katsina State Scholarship Board to strengthen operational efficiency, improve working conditions and ensure better service delivery.

Radda announced that the government is committed to establishing a Scholarship Trust Fund to guarantee sustainability beyond his administration.

He acknowledged the request for a modern Computer-Based Test (CBT) centre within the board’s premises, describing it as a well-thought-out idea that aligns with the state’s digital transformation agenda.

Earlier, Aminu Salisu-Tsauri, Executive Secretary of the Katsina State Scholarship Board, disclosed that ₦677.57 million had been earmarked for the 2024/2025 academic year, while previous disbursements supported tens of thousands of students across multiple sessions.

He said over ₦200 million had benefited medical and health students, while more than ₦300 million supported students studying in Nigeria and the diaspora.

Salisu-Tsauri added that the board had also reintegrated out-of-school children by providing uniforms, books and other educational materials as part of its corporate social responsibility.

The executive secretary commended Governor Radda for increasing the board’s budget from ₦500 million to ₦1 billion, and subsequently to ₦9 billion in 2026, describing the move as revolutionary.

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