Nigerian university announces ‘Work-for-cash’ to support indigent students

The Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, has announced a ‘work aid scheme’ through which scores of indigent students would be paid cash as a reward for part-time jobs done in the service of the school.

The vice-chancellor, Joseph Ahaneku, hinted at the scheme during the matriculation ceremony held in the school on Saturday.

Mr. Ahaneku, a professor, disclosed that the scheme would engage 76 students to be paid N10,000 (ten thousand naira) each for a five-hour per week work.

He said the scheme is only for indigent students, who must have a minimum 2.5 CGPA and be in year 2 at least at the time of applying.

He, however, did not give the criteria for identifying an ‘indigent’ student.

The VC said that the school’s vision of becoming one of the greatest in Nigeria and the world at large would be achieved through the improvement of academic facilities and programmes to enhance the quality of the students.

He warned the students against examination malpractices, truancy, cultism and that they ensure they pay up fees before their examinations.

He congratulated the first-year students on their admission and wished them a successful stay in the institution.

Speaking at the event, the head, department of mass communication, Uche Ebeze expressed joy at the large turn out of parents who came to celebrate with their children.

He advised the students to adhere strictly to rules and regulations of the University community and not to forget to attend lectures as the management would take note of 75% attendance before the examination.

A matriculating student of economics department Anderson Izuchukwu described his matriculation as a memorable ceremony.

Similarly, a linguistics department student, Ogoo Enemuo, thanked God for the good weather condition and prayed for a successful stay in the University.

Also a parent, Mrs Chika Ogwumba appreciated God and advised all students to be serious.

The matriculation ceremony held despite the call by the striking non-teaching workers to cancel it.