In a recent interview, Prof. Christopher Odetunde, Vice-Chancellor of Augustine University in Ilara-Epe, Lagos, emphasized the need for the federal government to expand the Student Loan Scheme to cover students attending private higher institutions. Speaking to journalists ahead of the university’s sixth convocation ceremony, he pointed out that both public and private university students are Nigerians who are being educated to contribute to the nation’s development.

“It’s important to recognize that many of the individuals generating the majority of taxes funding this scheme are the parents of students in private universities,” Odetunde stated. “During a recent stakeholder meeting following this year’s Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), I asked the Managing Director of NELFUND about the lack of support for private university students.”

He noted that the Managing Director explained that the financial needs for supporting a private university student could potentially cover three students in a public university. However, Odetunde challenged this assertion. “For one, the government is increasing fees at its own institutions through various means. Additionally, many parents are making significant sacrifices to keep their children enrolled in private schools. Private institutions also play a crucial role in addressing the shortage of educational facilities necessary to develop the country’s workforce.”

Odetunde extended his gratitude to the Catholic Church and the university’s Chancellor, Mr. Femi Otedola, for their ongoing support, and expressed confidence that Augustine University is on a path to becoming a highly sought-after educational institution.

Regarding the quality of education, he emphasized the importance of students not only earning degrees but also acquiring certifications in specialized skills. He revealed that new courses and programs have been introduced, which are expected to enhance the student population in the next admission cycle.

The upcoming convocation will celebrate the graduation of 71 students from various departments, along with 28 graduates from the St. Gregory School of Pastoral Music. Among the graduates, 11 have achieved first-class honors, with Loko Iyanuoluwa Emmanuel from the Department of Computer Science recognized as the best graduating student, earning a remarkable CGPA of 4.91.