By JIDAUNA DARING
The member representing Mangu South Constituency in the Plateau State House of Assembly, Hon. Mathew Kwarpo, has unveiled a N30 million scholarship scheme for 1,500 students in primary, secondary and tertiary institutions across the constituency.
The beneficiaries include students affected by past communal crises within Mangu South.
A breakdown of the intervention shows that 500 students in tertiary institutions will receive N50,000 each, while 1,000 primary and secondary school students will benefit from payment covering 80 percent of their school fees.
The flag-off ceremony took place on Sunday in Ampang West, Mangu Local Government Area, where Governor Caleb Mutfwang was represented by his brother, Nehemiah Mutfwang, who presented symbolic scholarship awards to some beneficiaries.
Governor Mutfwang, in his remarks, commended the initiative, describing it as timely and in line with his administration’s commitment to education.
“We will continue to support and build on programmes that will bring progress and development to our dear state,” he said.
He urged beneficiaries to make proper use of the support and remain focused on their education.
Kwarpo said the scholarship scheme was driven by his commitment to education and his desire to reduce the financial burden on families in his constituency.
“This initiative is part of delivering the dividends of democracy to our students,” he said, adding that the programme marked the beginning of wider disbursement across the constituency.
He called on individuals and organisations to support vulnerable students, particularly those affected by crises.
The lawmaker said beneficiaries were selected through the Plateau State Scholarship Board in collaboration with the Ministry of Education.
The event also featured cultural performances, including the Kook Cheer dancing competition and a prayer session organised by the Director of Treasury and Operations, Plateau State, Dr. Ezekiel Dauda Daschen.
Some beneficiaries expressed appreciation for the intervention, describing it as a major relief for students facing financial challenges.