The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has embarked on a large-scale sensitization campaign targeting market women in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to raise awareness about the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) and its benefits for their children and wards in tertiary institutions.
The campaign, led by the Director of the Community Outreach and Development Department, Mrs. Olorunfemi Olubukola, took place in major markets including Orozo, Karshi, and Karu.
The outreach aimed to ensure that grassroots communities are well-informed about the opportunities provided under the Student Loan Act of 2024, which established NELFUND.
NELFUND is a federal government initiative designed to provide interest-free loans to eligible Nigerian students in tertiary institutions.
The loan covers tuition fees, educational materials, and living expenses, enabling students to pursue higher education without financial constraints.
To effectively communicate the program’s objectives and procedures, the NOA team employed a multifaceted approach that included OB-VAN broadcasts of educational jingles and live interactive sessions.
Staff members addressed the market women in multiple local languages including Hausa, Igbo, Yoruba, Igala, Gbagyi, and Pidgin English, ensuring inclusivity and comprehensive understanding.
Mrs. Olubukola emphasized the importance of grassroots awareness, noting that empowering women with knowledge about education funding options can have a transformative impact on families and communities.
She encouraged the women to share the information with others and guide their children to take advantage of the opportunity.
The campaign reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to widening access to higher education and ensuring that no student is left behind due to financial hardship.