In a significant stride toward educational collaboration, 179 Nigerian scholars have been awarded scholarships to pursue various programs in Russia. This announcement was made by the Minister of Education, Prof Tahir Mamman, during the 2023/2024 Pre-departure briefing of Bilateral Education Agreement Scholars to Russia in Abuja on Tuesday.
The first batch of students has already set off for the airport, commencing their journey, while the subsequent batches are scheduled to depart on November 15 and November 17, respectively.
Representing the Minister of Education, Prof Tahir Mamman, the Director of Universities Education in the ministry, Rakiya Ilyasu, advised the scholars to approach this opportunity with a sense of responsibility. He emphasized that the country had invested significantly in them, expecting a return on investment upon their return.
Mamman conveyed the importance of these scholarships in providing opportunities for brilliant Nigerians, especially those who cannot afford to pursue programs not readily available in Nigeria. Despite global economic challenges, Mamman expressed gratitude for the increasing number of development partners offering scholarships to Nigeria.
The Minister urged the departing scholars to uphold good values, focus on their studies, and become exemplary ambassadors of their country. He emphasized the need for compliance with the laws of the host country and encouraged them to establish a connection with the Nigerian Embassy in Moscow.
Highlighting the commencement of the scholarship journey, Asta Ndajiwo, the Director of the Federal Scholarship Board, commended the efforts of the Federal Government, especially in ensuring the timely payment of scholars’ allowances from September to December. She cautioned the scholars against engaging in risky extracurricular activities, citing a past incident where two scholars lost their lives while swimming in a pool in Russia.
Ndajiwo encouraged the scholars to be vigilant, prioritize their studies, and act as good ambassadors for Nigeria during their stay in Russia. The Minister’s charge echoed the sentiment that these scholars, equipped with new knowledge and skills, would play a pivotal role in contributing to Nigeria’s development upon their return.
