The Zamfara State Government has recently stepped in to provide financial assistance to students who were sponsored to Cyprus International University by the former administration under Governor Bello Muhammed Matawalle. This move comes in response to the significant challenges these students have been facing.
During a press conference held in Abuja on Tuesday, the state’s Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Mallam Wadatau Madawaki, addressed the pressing issues encountered by these students. He emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability in handling their sponsorship.
Commissioner Madawaki stated that the current administration, led by His Excellency Dauda Lawal, is dedicated to resolving the grievances of the affected students. He highlighted the necessity of clarifying the circumstances surrounding their sponsorship to ensure fairness and support.
In 2020, the Matawalle administration sponsored 93 students from Zamfara to pursue various courses at the university. However, Madawaki pointed out that the sponsorship process was plagued by dishonesty and a lack of integrity.
One of the critical issues raised was the absence of a documented Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the state government and the university. Madawaki remarked that there is no formal evidence outlining the responsibilities of both parties involved in this arrangement.
He further revealed that a consultant had been hired to negotiate the students’ admissions and related arrangements with the university. This included a comprehensive deal that was supposed to cover accommodation and meal expenses managed by the university.
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Unfortunately, it was reported that students were charged for meals they never received, exacerbating their difficulties. This situation has significantly impacted their overall well-being and academic experience.
The challenges faced by these students intensified in 2022 when the Matawalle administration halted funding for their education. This abrupt cessation left many students struggling with severe financial difficulties and accumulating debts.
Madawaki’s statements reflect the current administration’s commitment to addressing these issues and ensuring that the students receive the support they need. The government aims to rectify past mistakes and provide a more stable foundation for the students’ education.
Through these efforts, the Zamfara State Government seeks to restore the students’ faith in their sponsorship program and alleviate the burdens they have been enduring.
