By Milcah Tanimu

The Federal Government has expressed satisfaction with the success of the Bilateral Education Agreement (BEA) scholarship awards for the 2023/2024 academic session, despite global economic challenges. A total of 230 Nigerian scholars have been awarded undergraduate and postgraduate scholarships, with 72 going to Hungary, 175 to Russia, and 83 to Morocco.

During the pre-departure ceremony for the Moroccan scholarship awardees, Minister of Education, Professor Tahir Mamman, congratulated the scholars and emphasized the importance of conducting themselves responsibly as ambassadors of Nigeria. He commended their academic excellence and acknowledged the role of parents and teachers in their success.

The minister highlighted that the scholarship program aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda” and emphasized the need for scholars to view the opportunity as an investment by Nigeria. He encouraged them to return and contribute to the nation’s development.

Despite the global economic challenges, the minister noted an increase in the number of development partners offering scholarships to Nigeria. He urged parents to support and guide the scholars, emphasizing the importance of their role in the nation’s progress.

The BEA scholarship program aims to support brilliant Nigerians who may not afford programs not readily available in Nigeria, providing them with the necessary knowledge, skills, and competencies for the country’s development agenda.