Inclusion of Private Universities in NELFUND Essential

The article emphasizes the importance of integrating private universities into Nigeria's Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) scheme, which is designed to reduce financial barriers to higher education. Currently, NELFUND primarily supports students in public institutions, leaving those in private universities without assistance despite their significant contributions to the educational landscape.

Mr. Akintunde Sawyerr, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NELFUND, noted that high tuition costs in private universities prevent many students from accessing necessary financial support. This exclusion disproportionately affects students from low and middle-income families, undermining equity in education.

The article argues that including private institutions in NELFUND would promote inclusivity and enhance the overall skill level of the workforce, ultimately benefiting Nigeria's socio-economic development. It calls for a nuanced approach to financial assistance that assesses individual student needs rather than relying solely on institutional ownership.