The Jigawa State Government dedicated significant resources to ensure the safe relocation and education of its students from conflict-affected Sudan. The government spent 4 billion Naira on the evacuation and subsequent educational expenses for 195 students who were at risk due to civil unrest in Sudan. This information was shared by Saidu Magaji, the Executive Secretary of the Jigawa State Scholarship Board, during a reception in Dutse for six students who had recently returned home after completing their studies in India. Notably, among the students, four achieved First Class honors in Nursing Science, demonstrating the success of the government’s efforts in supporting their education post-evacuation.
As tensions escalated in Sudan, the Jigawa State Government acted swiftly to evacuate its students and ensure their educational continuity. Magaji elaborated on the processes involved in relocating the students, highlighting the challenges faced during the war and the careful planning that went into their safe return. Upon their arrival in Nigeria, the government took additional measures to facilitate their comfort; instead of using buses to transport them back to Jigawa—considering their recent traumatic experiences—it chartered an aircraft to bring them directly to Jigawa airport. The students were granted transport fare to reach their homes safely, further emphasizing the state’s commitment to their welfare amid challenges.
In line with its commitment to these students, Governor Umar Namadi directed the scholarship board to help secure admissions for them at universities abroad. A significant portion, 185 students, enrolled at Near Institute University in Cyprus, while 10 others were admitted to Integral University in India. To support their transition and education, the students were provided with financial assistance that included payments for resident permits, health insurance, and living allowances, amounting to approximately 4.5 million Naira each. These measures reflect the state’s ongoing investment in the education and stability of its students amid crisis.
The academic performance of the relocated students has been commendable. Out of the ten students who secured admission to Integral University in India, six have successfully graduated, with an impressive four of them earning First Class honors in Nursing Science. The other two graduates completed degrees in Industrial Chemistry. This achievement not only speaks volumes about the quality of education received but also highlights the resilience of these students in overcoming the adversities associated with their abrupt relocation from Sudan to India.
Students expressed profound gratitude for the intervention of the Jigawa State Government. Aisha Muhammad, one of the Nursing Science graduates, articulated the hopes and aspirations of her peers, stating their readiness to serve their home state of Jigawa with enthusiasm and dedication following their traumatic experiences in Sudan. Likewise, Abdullahi Isa, who graduated in Industrial Chemistry, shared his positive reflections on his educational journey in India, emphasizing how the support from the government not only salvaged their academic pursuits but also fostered a sense of optimism for the future.
Overall, Jigawa State’s proactive measures to prioritize the education and well-being of its students during a crisis have yielded fruitful results. The graduates, with their degrees and newfound experiences, symbolize resilience and hope for the future of Jigawa State. The government’s commitment to ensuring that these students serve their community post-graduation is indicative of a broader vision for human capital development, ensuring that even in the face of adversity, the potential of its young leaders can be harnessed for the benefit of their state.
