Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, has awarded scholarships to 107 students, including foreign, indigent, and special needs students.

A statement by Auwalu Umar, Director of Public Affairs at the university, revealed that 49 postgraduate and 42 undergraduate foreign students, along with 10 Nigerian students and six indigent undergraduates, were selected for the scholarship. The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Kabiru Bala, represented by Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Raymond Bako, stated that the initiative aligns with the university’s founding vision to support vulnerable students, offering assistance through various non-cash means to help them excel academically.

Dr. Sa’adatu Muhammad-Makarfi, Director of the Counseling and Human Development Center, explained that foreign students would now pay the same fees as local students, easing their financial burden amidst economic challenges. Additionally, the university covered tuition and accommodation for many special needs students, a move that was met with gratitude by Mustapha Yahaya, President of Students with Special Needs, who urged further extensions of the scholarship to others in need.

The Vice-Chancellor also encouraged the foreign students to act as ambassadors for ABU in their home countries after completing their studies, reinforcing the university’s commitment to inclusivity and excellence for all students.