Academic Association awards bursary to 10 indigent students of UNN

Supporting Education: AEA’s Commitment to Indigent Students

An academic association in the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), under the umbrella of the Association of Ezikeoba Academics (AEA), yesterday awarded bursaries of ₦100,000 each to 10 indigent students of UNN.

During the association’s first general meeting of 2024, held at Dr. George Ali’s residence in Nsukka, Prof. Emeka Obe, the President of AEA, presented the awards to the beneficiaries. He emphasized that the bursary was aimed at assisting the students in their educational pursuits.

Prof. Obe noted that AEA, an association comprising academics from Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area of Enugu State, recognizes the value of education and has provided bursaries to over 30 indigent students from Enugu Ezike since its inception. “Today, we are awarding ₦100,000 each to 10 deserving students,” he stated.

Selection Process and Future Plans

The President highlighted the rigorous selection process conducted by the Bursary Awards Screening Committee, which reviewed over 50 applications to identify the most vulnerable candidates. Represented by the Vice-President of AEA, Prof. Apex Apeh of the Department of History and International Studies, Prof. Obe commended the committee for its dedication and commitment.

“It is because the committee members have eagle eyes that they were able to select the 10 most vulnerable among over 50 applicants,” he said. “AEA will continue to ensure that indigent students in Enugu Ezike, Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area of Enugu State, are assisted with the available resources of the association.”

Prof. Obe urged young people to strive hard to secure admission into higher institutions while encouraging parents and relations to support them financially. “It is not enough to fold your hands at home and blame your parents for not sending you to school when you have not gotten admission to any higher institution,” he added.

In response, Ogochukwu Abugu, President of the Association of Enugu Ezike Students, UNN Chapter, expressed gratitude on behalf of the beneficiaries. “On behalf of the Enugu Ezike Students in UNN, I most sincerely thank AEA for the wonderful financial support to the lucky 10 beneficiaries,” he said.

Abugu noted that the bursary would significantly alleviate the financial burdens of the students, enabling them to focus on their studies. He assured that the beneficiaries would remain committed to their education and advised them to avoid social vices throughout their university journey.

Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Ezeja Uchenna, a 400-level student of the Pharmacy Department, thanked AEA for the bursary and pledged judicious use of the funds. Other notable beneficiaries include Okoro Kosisochukwu (Mass Communication) and Ossai Festa (Science Education).

“The gesture by AEA underscores the importance of community support in fostering education. By investing in these students, the association is shaping the future leaders of tomorrow.”

This initiative by AEA exemplifies the power of collective effort in promoting education and supporting marginalized communities. As the beneficiaries embark on their academic journeys, the association’s support is expected to inspire them to excel and give back to their community in the future.