Katsina govt approves merit-based scholarship for 1, 700 students 

Katsina govt approves merit-based scholarship for 1, 700 students 

The Katsina State Executive Council, chaired by Governor Dikko Umaru Radda, on Wednesday, approved a merit-based scholarship for 1, 700 bright students from across the state.

The approval was part of the decisions taken during the 8th Regular Meeting of the Council held at the General Muhammadu Buhari House, Katsina.

Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Bashir Tanimu Gambo, told newsmen after the meeting that 50 overall best students in each of the 34 Local Government Areas will benefit from the special scholarship scheme.

“The package includes complete payment of tuition and other fees, as well as yearly stipend for eligible candidates.

“This scholarship ensures that talented students have the opportunity to further their studies without financial constraint,” he said .

The Executive Secretary of the state Scholarship Board, Dr. Aminu Salisu, explained that the initiative targets removing financial barriers to education, especially for citizens from low income families.

Also, the Council has approved the enrollment of additional 361 people to undergo AGRIpreneurship training at the Makera Songhai Training Center in Dutsin-ma.

They will form the second batch of the Dikko Radda Agripreneurship Training and Empowerment Scheme, which aims to build youth capacity in innovative integrated agricultural systems, crop production, livestock, aquaculture, agro-processing, and agri-business development.

Similarly, the Council has approved the award of a contract for the completion of  Ajiwa Water Works pump house to boost water supply to Katsina metropolis and surrounding communities.

In the same vein, the State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Surajo Yazid Abukur, said that the Council has approved the Phase III of the Charanchi Township Stadium project, which includes construction of a standard football pitch, stone-base course, multi-purpose indoor sports hall, and Type B pavilion.

He added that the Council also approved installation of lead-free FIFA Quality Pro-Generation Hybrid Synthetic Grass at Malumfashi and Funtua township stadiums.

“These projects will transform the two stadiums to international standard and enhance the spirit of sportsmanship among our youth,” the commissioner stated.

Professor Saifulahi Sani, the state Statistician General, said they would conduct a General Household Survey.

“The survey will serve as statewide baseline data for implementing result-based integrated rural transformation models. It will address data deficiency that has affected strategic planning in various MDAs and among development partners,” he said.