Gov.Otu Begins Rollout Of Student Bursary Programme With New Steering Committee

CALABAR, NIGERIA – The Cross River State Government has taken its first major step toward implementing its proposed student bursary programme, with Governor Bassey Edet Otu approving the constitution of a Steering Committee to oversee the scheme’s rollout.

The committee is expected to drive the seamless implementation of the bursary programme by developing a transparent application process, designing an efficient data collection and payment framework, engaging critical stakeholders and recommending strategies to ensure a credible, inclusive and accountable administration of the scheme.

According to a press release issued on Wednesday by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary and Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Linus Obogo, the committee will be chaired by the Chairman of the Cross River State Scholarship Board, Prof. Paul Itari.

Other members include Comrade Kelvin Enyam, Mr. Matthew Ochiche and Comrade Abini Okoi, while Dr. Emmanuel Duke will serve as Secretary.

Governor Otu, through the statement, said the committee was constituted “to drive the seamless implementation of the government’s bursary programme.”

The statement added that the committee is mandated to “develop a transparent bursary application model, design an efficient data collection and payment framework, engage critical stakeholders, reduce administrative bottlenecks and recommend strategies that will guarantee a credible, inclusive and accountable bursary administration process.”

The government further explained that the initiative aligns with Governor Otu’s commitment to expanding educational opportunities for students across Cross River State.

The constitution of the committee marks the beginning of the administrative phase of the state’s bursary programme, with government moving from policy commitment to establishing the framework required for implementation.

While the government has yet to announce the commencement date for applications, eligibility criteria, funding details or the number of prospective beneficiaries, the establishment of the steering committee signals preparations for the eventual rollout of the scheme aimed at supporting students in the state.