By Lukman Olabiyi, Lagos
The Lagos State Government has revealed that it has expended approximately N849.5 million on scholarship and bursary awards in 2023.
Mr Tolani Sule, the State Commissioner for Tertiary Education, disclosed this information during the ongoing annual ministerial press briefing marking the first year of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s second term.
“A total of N849,555,000.00 has been released in 2023 for 8,475 scholarship and bursary beneficiaries,” Sule stated. This includes N335,600,000 for 1,591 recipients of the 2022/2023 Scholarship Award for Undergraduate & PhD students, as well as the 2022/2023 Governor’s Discretionary Awards. Additionally, N513,955,000 was allocated for 6,884 Bursary Awards for Undergraduates and Law School students.
In line with the THEMES Plus Agenda, which prioritizes inclusive development, the state government has introduced a special scholarship for inclusion. This initiative aims to support people living with disabilities and the multi-dimensionally poor, empowering them to pursue their educational aspirations and contribute meaningfully to society. Notably, the Special Scholarship for Inclusion extends beyond Lagos State indigenes, encompassing all residents enrolled in Lagos State-owned Tertiary Institutions, regardless of their state of origin.
“As per the People with Disability Law of Lagos State, which promises free education for all PWDs, I am pleased to announce that the Lagos State Government has allocated budgetary provisions in the 2024 Budget to fulfil this mandate via the introduction of the Special Scholarship for PWDs,” Sule added. “We are committed to ensuring that every individual, regardless of their abilities or socio-economic background, has access to quality education.”
Furthermore, the Lagos State University of Health and Medical Sciences is set to commence operations this year with the admission of its first set of students for the 2024/25 academic session. The state government is working diligently to admit students for the upcoming session, as all three components required for takeoff have been met.
Sule emphasized the state government’s commitment to the project, with Governor Sanwo-Olu providing full support for its launch. He also provided details of activities undertaken by all agencies and departments under the ministry, highlighting their contributions to driving the THEMES agenda of the Sanwo-Olu administration. Additionally, he mentioned developments in the newly established two universities, as well as Lagos State University (LASU), including efforts to improve its rating as an institution.