BOUESTI VC Urges Students to Apply for Nigeria Education Loan Fund as FG Expands Student Loan Access

The Vice-Chancellor of Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology, Ikere-Ekiti (BOUESTI), Professor Babatunde Omojola, has called on students of the institution to take advantage of the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFund) scheme as a sustainable solution to rising education costs in Nigeria.

Professor Omojola made the call during the inauguration and swearing-in ceremony of the newly elected Students’ Union Government, stressing that the Federal Government-backed student loan programme was designed to ease the growing financial pressure of school fees on students and their parents.

According to the Vice-Chancellor, accessing the NELFund student loan can significantly reduce the burden of tuition payments while also improving students’ overall welfare. He explained that beneficiaries of the scheme are not only supported with school fees funding but are also entitled to stipends, making the programme a comprehensive education financing option for Nigerian students.

He noted that the introduction of the Nigeria Education Loan Fund aligns with the Federal Government’s broader policy on expanding access to higher education, improving human capital development, and reducing dropout rates caused by financial constraints.

Professor Omojola commended the outgoing Students’ Union executives for maintaining peace and stability throughout their tenure, adding that a calm academic environment is essential for quality learning and institutional growth. He urged the newly sworn-in executives to sustain the culture of dialogue, cooperation, and mutual respect between students and university management.

The Vice-Chancellor reminded students that their primary responsibility in the university is academic excellence, emphasizing that diligence, discipline, and hard work remain critical to graduating with good grades and securing future career opportunities. He reaffirmed his commitment to an open-door policy, assuring students of his willingness to engage, listen, and address their concerns when necessary.

He further stated that effective communication between management and students is vital to fostering peace, sustainable development, and progressive student unionism within the university.

Speaking at the event, the Dean of Student Affairs, Professor Dayo Daramola, advised students to be law-abiding and uphold high moral standards at all times. He encouraged them to actively contribute to student union policies and implementation processes that promote the collective interest of the student body.

Professor Daramola warned against social vices capable of tarnishing the image of the university and jeopardizing students’ future careers after graduation, stressing that character and conduct are as important as academic achievements in today’s competitive job market.

The oath of office was administered to the newly elected Students’ Union Government executives by the University Director of Legal Services, Mr. Busuyi Jayeoba.

In his handover address, the immediate past Students’ Union Government President, Comrade Ayeni Opeyemi Mavas, expressed appreciation to the university management for their guidance and support during his administration. He pledged to share his experience with the new leadership to ensure continuity, peace, and a stable academic environment.

In his acceptance speech, the newly inaugurated Students’ Union Government President, Comrade Sanya Ifeoluwa Amos, assured students of a transparent and inclusive administration. He promised to prioritize student welfare, protect students’ interests, and lead with integrity while working closely with the university management to advance the institution’s academic and social objectives.