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Tag: Akintunde Sawyerr

  • NELFUND committed to making quality education accessible, says Sawyerr

    NELFUND committed to making quality education accessible, says Sawyerr

    The Managing Director of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), Akintunde Sawyerr, has reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to making quality education accessible and affordable for all.

    In a statement issued on Friday to mark the International Day of Education, themed “AI and Education: Preserving Human Agency in a World of Automation,” Sawyerr highlighted that NELFUND’s innovative student loan products are designed to help students achieve their dreams and aspirations.

    He said: “We are excited to showcase our NELFUND Student Loan and new Vocational Skills Loan Initiative, both aimed at making education and skill development accessible to all, supported by our ongoing AI-driven process optimization and commitment to educational inclusion in Nigeria.

    “Education is the key to unlocking a brighter future. At NELFUND, we are committed to making quality education accessible and affordable for everyone,

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    “Our innovative loan products are designed to support students in achieving their dreams and aspirations. We continually optimize our processes using AI to ensure we deliver the best possible service.”

    He added: “NELFUND Student Loan: Providing financial assistance to students pursuing higher education, with flexible repayment options tailored to individual needs.

    “Vocational Skills Loan Initiative: A newly launched loan product to support individuals seeking vocational training and skill development, bridging the gap between education and employment.

    “Commitment to Inclusion: Ensuring that our educational financial solutions are accessible to all, regardless of background or socioeconomic status. NELFUND is dedicated to creating opportunities for marginalised communities.

    “Ongoing AI-Driven Process Optimization: Continuously utilising cutting-edge AI technology to streamline loan application processes, enhance customer service, and ensure efficient delivery of financial solutions.

    “Furthermore, NELFUND’s efforts align with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. By executing the mandate of improving educational accessibility and quality, NELFUND is contributing to a more inclusive and educated society, in line with the national vision.

    “NELFUND is dedicated to fostering education and skill development through innovative financial solutions that cater to the diverse needs of our clients. With continuous AI integration, NELFUND is setting new standards in the financial services industry, ensuring that education in Nigeria remains a priority in a rapidly evolving world.”

  • No discrimination in Student Loan disbursement, says NELFUND boss Sawyerr

    No discrimination in Student Loan disbursement, says NELFUND boss Sawyerr

    The Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), Akintunde Sawyerr, has said the scheme does not discriminate against any beneficiary.

    Sawyerr spoke at a maiden meeting with the House of Representatives Committee on Student Loans, Scholarships and Higher Education Financing at the National Assembly Complex yesterday in Abuja.

    “This administration, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has introduced many brilliant policies, and the student loan initiative is the one that hits closest to home. It is reaching every corner of the nation – East, West, North, and South.

    “This policy is not discriminatory. It is inclusive, ensuring that every Nigerian, regardless of location or background, has access to the education they deserve.

    “It is akin to monumental policies, such as the Free Education programme of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, the establishment of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) by General Yakubu Gowon, and the creation of federal universities.

    “These policies have shaped Nigeria’s development, and the student loan initiative is equally progressive, representing an investment in our nation’s future.

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    “We have also been proactive in reaching out to segments of the nation that feel left behind – particularly the Southeast. I am pleased to report that my team and I have made significant progress in engaging these communities, with multiple rounds of sensitization in the region, resulting in a surge in applications,” he said.

    Sawyerr said NELFUND had received over 350,000 applications and disbursed over N10 billion with a commitment to disbursing N90 billion in tuition fees and stipends.

    He added: “Applications are coming in at an average of over 1,000 per day, and we are making special provisions for students living with disabilities. Moreover, we are focused on addressing the barriers to girl-child education, recognising that denying girls the opportunity for further education is denying the nation a chance to benefit from their incredible leadership potential.”