Dogara Urges Federal Government to Extend Student Loans to Private University Students
Dogara, addressing the 2023 Batch ‘C’ Stream 2 graduates, stressed the importance of properly managing the student loan scheme to benefit both private and public tertiary institution students. He emphasized the need to address underemployment and unemployment, considering them as crucial factors contributing to poverty.
AKACHI NOEL 
Yakubu Dogara, the former Speaker of the House of Representatives, has called on the Federal Government to extend its student loan scheme to include students of private universities. The plea was made during the 13th convocation ceremony of Achievers University in Owo.
Dogara, addressing the 2023 Batch ‘C’ Stream 2 graduates, stressed the importance of properly managing the student loan scheme to benefit both private and public tertiary institution students. He emphasized the need to address underemployment and unemployment, considering them as crucial factors contributing to poverty.
During the convocation, a total of 552 students graduated, with 518 receiving first degrees. Among the graduates, 37 achieved first-class honors, while 259 were awarded second-class upper. Additionally, 195 students received second-class lower, and 27 graduated with third-class honors.
The Pro-Chancellor of Achievers University, Dr. Bode Ayorinde, reassured the community of the institution's commitment to the welfare of staff and students. He highlighted the consistent payment of salaries, implementation of the Contributory Pension Scheme, and recent palliatives to staff to mitigate the effects of fuel subsidy removal.
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Acting Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Omolola Irinoye, disclosed the university's future plans to expand infrastructure with a focus on agriculture. She expressed the institution's commitment to fostering collaborations for agriculture development and food security.
Rebecca Adama, the best-graduating student, shared insights into her journey, encouraging her fellow graduates to approach life with diligence and dedication. Dogara's plea for inclusivity in the student loan scheme adds to the ongoing discourse about equitable access to educational opportunities.
