From Mu’awiya Bala Idris, Katsina
A non-governmental organisation, the Lado Education Foundation, has disbursed over N700.2 million in scholarships to students from Katsina State studying in various higher institutions across Nigeria.
According to beneficiaries, the scholarship scheme has supported 31,711 students between 2023 and 2026, providing financial assistance to students at different levels of education.
Speaking at a press conference on behalf of other beneficiaries, Saratu Lawal Maska, a student of Umaru Musa Yar’adua University, described the scholarship programme as a major source of encouragement that enabled her to pursue her academic ambitions.
She explained that the foundation’s scholarship scheme caters to students enrolled in Diploma, National Diploma (ND), Higher National Diploma (HND), Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE), Bachelor’s Degree, Master’s Degree, and Doctorate Degree programmes.
Maska added that the initiative also supports students undertaking full-time, part-time, distance learning, and vocational training programmes, making it one of the most inclusive educational support schemes in the state.
She commended the founder of the foundation, Yakubu Lado Danmarke, for his commitment to supporting young people, particularly those from less privileged backgrounds, through both financial and moral assistance.
According to her, the prevailing economic challenges in the country have made educational support from philanthropists, corporate organisations, and other stakeholders increasingly important.
“The current economic hardship in the country clearly shows that educational support from wealthy individuals, companies, and stakeholders is essential if children from poor families are to achieve their educational goals,” she said.
Maska called on public office holders, business leaders, and companies operating in Katsina State to emulate the initiative by establishing similar educational foundations to support students.
She noted that such interventions would help thousands of young people from disadvantaged families gain access to quality education and realise their aspirations.
The beneficiaries also highlighted transportation challenges facing students of Umaru Musa Yar’adua University, Federal College of Education, Katsina, and Federal University Dutsin-Ma, urging wealthy individuals and relevant stakeholders to intervene and provide support to ease their daily commuting difficulties.