The Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology and Environmental Sciences (FUTES), Iyin-Ekiti, Prof. Gbenga Aribisala, has described the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) as “one of the greatest things” to have happened to education in Nigeria.

Aribisala reportedly made the remark while speaking on the impact of the student loan scheme and its potential to improve access to higher education for Nigerian students.

He noted that many students are already benefiting from the initiative, which provides financial support to eligible students to meet the cost of their education.

The Vice-Chancellor said programmes such as NELFUND could help reduce the financial burden on families and ensure that students are not forced to abandon their education because of financial difficulties.

His comments come as FUTES continues to expand its academic activities. The newly established university commenced academic activities with about 1,500 pioneer students and is focused on producing skilled graduates in technology and environmental sciences.

Aribisala has previously stressed the importance of investing in quality education, research and human-capital development to address Nigeria’s development challenges.

NELFUND was established to provide financial assistance to students pursuing tertiary education, with the broader objective of improving access to education and reducing financial barriers for Nigerian youths.