Osun State students have called on the state government to immediately release and pay the approved bursary to eligible beneficiaries across tertiary institutions in the state.
The demand was contained in a memorandum issued by the National Headquarters of the students’ body and signed by its Executive President, Comr. Ajibola Lateef Folajimmy.
The students expressed concern over what they described as the continued delay in the release of the state bursary, saying the development had subjected many students to financial hardship.
They said the bursary was designed to cushion the financial burden on students and support their academic pursuits, particularly with the rising cost of education and living expenses.
“The prolonged delay has subjected many students to hardship, making it difficult for them to meet essential educational expenses, including tuition, accommodation, transportation and learning materials,” the students said.
According to them, many students and their families rely on the bursary to cope with the financial demands of tertiary education.
The students stressed that supporting beneficiaries through the scheme remained an important investment in the future of Osun State and urged the government to treat the matter with urgency.
“Education remains one of the strongest investments in the future of Osun State. Supporting students through the bursary scheme reflects the government’s commitment to academic excellence, youth development and equal access to higher education,” they said.
They further noted that the prevailing economic realities had increased the cost of education and living, making timely payment of the bursary critical to the ability of many students to remain in school and complete their studies.
The students therefore gave the Osun State Government 72 hours from the date of the memorandum to commence the release and payment of the bursary to all eligible beneficiaries.
“We therefore call on the Osun State Government to immediately release the approved bursary and ensure prompt payment to all eligible beneficiaries,” the memorandum stated.
The group also called on indigenous student associations, chapter presidents and other student leaders across the state to unite in demanding the payment and support peaceful efforts aimed at securing the welfare of Osun students.
It, however, stressed its commitment to constructive engagement with the government, saying it expected the authorities to respond positively within the stipulated period.
“We remain committed to constructive engagement and believe the government will act swiftly in the interest of education and the future of our students,” the students said.
The students warned that failure by the government to take positive action within the 72-hour period would prompt them, in consultation with relevant stakeholders, to announce lawful and peaceful actions to ensure their concerns were addressed.
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