By Aliyu Garba
In its continued commitment to inclusive education, the Bayero University Kano (BUK) chapter of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has awarded scholarships to 18 indigent students through its annual Indigent Student Scholarship Scheme.
At Tuesday’s award ceremony in Kano, ASUU-BUK Chairperson Dr. Ibrahim Tajo-Siraj emphasized the program’s mission: “At ASUU, we are not just lecturers, but mentors and builders of society. This scholarship ensures no student is left behind because of financial hardship.”
The comprehensive scholarship package provides two tiers of support – two students receive ₦200,000 each from ASUU’s national body, while sixteen additional beneficiaries are awarded ₦100,000 each through the BUK branch’s dedicated fund.
“Our members are not rich, but we believe in collective sacrifice to uplift others,” Tajo-Siraj noted, revealing the scholarships are entirely funded through voluntary monthly salary deductions by lecturers. This decade-long initiative has produced numerous successful graduates now contributing to national development.
BUK Vice-Chancellor Prof. Sagir Abbas, represented by DVC Prof. Aliyu Mu’azu, praised the initiative, stating: “Without such gestures, many may not understand students’ financial challenges.” He encouraged closer collaboration with university management to expand the program’s reach.
The highly competitive selection process, which received over 100 applications according to committee convener Prof. Muhammad Waziri, ensures support reaches the most deserving students.