Dr Bala Isa
Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State has approved the sponsorship for 60 Borno indigent students to study Diploma Courses in leather-related fields at the National Institute of Leather Science and Technology (NILEST) in Zaria.
A statement from the Government House Press Unit on Thursday, said the development is coming after a recent courtesy visit by the Director General of NILEST, Dr Auwal Mustapha to Government House where Zulum directed the immediate dispatch of 60 students to the Institute to study leather technology, footwear design, and innovation.
Speaking shortly before the students’ departure, the Executive Secretary of the Borno State Scholarship Board, Dr Bala Isa, announced that the students were selected from the 27 Local Government Areas of the state.
Isa said the scholarship package includes the payment of school fees for two years and a monthly stipend of N30,000 to support the students during their studies.
“Governor Babagana Zulum has graciously approved that, throughout the duration of your studies, you will receive a monthly stipend of N30,000 for the next two years to assist you in your academic pursuits,” Isa said.
The executive secretary emphasised that the sponsorship is part of Zulum’s broader commitment to empowering the youth of the state, ensuring they become self-reliant through vocational and technical education.
He urged the students to make good use of rare opportunities provided by being good ambassadors of the state and being focused on their studies.
Isa also commended the North East Regional Manager of NILEST for his commitment in facilitating the participation of Borno indigene in the programme.
In his remarks, the Regional Manager of NILEST, Dr Busuguma expressed appreciation to the Governor for his bold step in sponsoring the 60 students.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank Governor Babagana Umara Zulum for his unwavering commitment to the advancement of education in Borno State.
“This initiative is part of his ongoing efforts to invest in the future of our youth across various fields of study,” Busuguma said.
He emphasized the strong relationship between Governor Zulum and NILEST, adding that the relationship facilitated speedy released of students’ admission letters to enable them commence their studies while the formal registration process is completed
The regional manager also extended his gratitude to the executive secretary of the scholarship board for his support and tireless work in ensuring that the students embark on the educational pursuit.
Responding on behalf of the students, Mohammed Yahaya, from Bama LGA, promised to reciprocate the gesture by putting in their best to make the state proud.
