The Federal Ministry of Education has confirmed that all supplementary allowances for Nigerian scholars abroad under the Bilateral Education Agreement (BEA) Scholarship Programme have been paid up to December 2024.

This reflects the government?s commitment to prioritising the needs of these students, according to a statement issued on Saturday by Boriowo Folasade, Director of Press and Public Relations.

Education Minister Dr Tunji Alausa addressed allegations from some government-sponsored scholars who claimed unpaid allowances caused significant hardship. He attributed shortfalls in disbursements to recent exchange rate fluctuations. To resolve this, Alausa has requested additional funding to cover the deficits and ensure full payment of entitlements.

The minister reaffirmed the government?s dedication to supporting BEA scholars studying in partner countries, including China, Russia, Algeria, Hungary, Morocco, Egypt, and Serbia. ?Through the agreements, host countries provide beneficiaries with free tuition, accommodation, and monthly stipends, while the federal government complements the support with take-off grants, monthly supplementation throughout the study period, and return passage upon successful completion of their programmes,? he said.

Furthermore, Alausa noted that provisions for the BEA programme are included in the Ministry?s 2024 capital budget. With the budget?s extension, disbursements under the 2025 capital budget will begin promptly once implementation starts. He assured stakeholders of the ministry?s unwavering commitment to meeting BEA obligations efficiently.

In conclusion, Alausa thanked students and their families for their patience, pledging continued support for the BEA programme?s success. (The Sun)