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By: Manoah Kikekon
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| Mrs. Sewede Port-Balogun the supervisor for education and Segun Onilude the Badagry Local Government chairman |
Concerned Badagry students have expressed their concerns to Mr. Segun Onilude, the Badagry local government chairman, about unpaid bursary fees to the students of Badagry Local Government, Lagos State, Mrs. Sewede Port-Balogun, the supervisor for education, has assured prompt response.
The open letter was made available to News Peddlers on Wednesday, where the students were asking for the reasons behind the delay of the bursary as students are already resuming school.
The letter reads, "We, the undersigned students of Badagry Local Government, write to express our concerns regarding the delay in the disbursement of our bursary. As beneficiaries of this critical support, we rely heavily on it to ease the financial burden of pursuing our education. However, the prolonged delay has left many of us in dire straits, particularly as most institutions have opened their portals for school fees payment.
"The bursary is not merely a token of support but a demonstration of the local government's commitment to empowering the youth and fostering educational development in our community. The delay has placed an undue financial strain on students and parents alike, as many struggle to meet the financial demands of the new academic session."
Hon. Sewede Port-Balogun, the supervisor for education, in a phone conversation told News Peddlers that the students have the right to write the letter as their approach remains civil, the bursary is their right, and that the delay was due to some unforeseen circumstances "I am working tirelessly with the chairman to make sure the money is paid," she said.
In a rejoinder letter written by Sewede in response to the open letter, she said, "It is always encouraging to see our future leaders expressing their concern in a more mature and disciplined manner. This is a testament to the fact that we are raising individuals who we can bequeath our legacies to. With this, we can sleep with both our eyes closed.
"As you may have been aware, the Onilude-led administration has made education of Badagry students a priority. For the records, this administration has offered free JAMB forms initiatives, free Summer School, upgrading school facilities, Bursary initiatives amongst others.
"Kindly note that the delay is occasioned by some unforeseen circumstances beyond the administration's control. However, every hitch is resolved, and the disbursement shall commence in earnest.
"While thanking you for your understanding, patience, and cooperation, and especially the manner in which you have publicly registered your displeasure, kindly be assured of our highest regards always, as service to the people is our utmost priority," Sewede said.
In a conversation with Ayomide Gbeyon, the President of the National Association of Badagry Students (NABAS), he said the first bursary given to Badagry students in higher institutions across the country was in December 2023. We did the screening for one of 2024 by October 2024, but I want to assure you that we've been working diligently to ensure the bursary process is completed.
We've reached out to the relevant authorities, including the chairman, and I can assure you that all hands are on deck to resolve the issue as soon as possible. We'll keep you updated on any developments.
Kriko Augustine, the media aide to the Badagry Local Government chairman, told News Peddlers that the chairman has pressing matters at hand and will attend to that at when due.