In a major boost to education and youth development, the Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has approved the release of ₦1 billion as bursary support for students of Edo origin enrolled in tertiary institutions across Nigeria.
The announcement was made following a town hall meeting between the Governor and youth leaders from various communities across the state. During the interactive session, the Governor responded positively to a heartfelt appeal from the young people, who called for the introduction of bursaries to support Edo indigenes pursuing higher education in universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education nationwide.
In a statement signed by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Fred Itua, the administration confirmed that this initiative, coming less than eight months into Governor Okpebholo’s tenure, will be institutionalized as an annual programme to alleviate the financial pressures on students and their families.
Governor Okpebholo emphasized that the bursary scheme is part of his administration’s larger commitment to improving access to quality education and empowering young people to pursue their academic and professional dreams.
“This bursary is not just financial support; it is an investment in the future of Edo State. Our young people are our greatest assets, and we will continue to support them in every way possible,” the Governor said.
To ensure transparency and accountability in the disbursement process, eligibility for the bursary will be strictly based on verification through each applicant’s Local Government of Origin. This step, according to the Governor, will help guarantee that only genuine indigenes of Edo State benefit from the scheme.
Governor Okpebholo further noted that the initiative aligns with his administration’s vision to:
- Promote academic excellence
- Increase access to higher education
- Encourage youth development
- Reduce dropout rates due to financial hardship
- Strengthen the role of education in building a prosperous and self-reliant state
He added that bursaries of this kind have a multiplier effect — helping not only students but also easing the financial burden on parents and guardians, particularly in the face of rising education costs.
Details regarding the application process, timelines, and disbursement will be communicated soon through the relevant government agencies and official channels. The government has assured that the process will be efficient, inclusive, and accessible to all eligible students across the state.
The bursary scheme is widely seen as a timely and impactful move that reflects the Governor’s responsiveness to the needs of Edo youths and his commitment to inclusive governance.
As the administration rolls out more youth-centered policies, stakeholders have applauded this gesture as a significant step toward building a knowledge-driven economy and nurturing the next generation of leaders in Edo State.
