The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has announced a delay in the application process for student loans from state-owned tertiary institutions. Here are the key details:
1. **Reason for Delay**: The delay is attributed to insufficient data submissions from state-owned institutions. As of the report, only a fraction of these institutions have completed the required data upload to the NELFUND Student Verification System (SVS). Specifically, 20 out of 48 state universities, 12 out of 54 state colleges, and 2 out of 49 state polytechnics have submitted their data.
2. **New Application Window**: Originally scheduled to open on June 25, 2024, the application window will now commence on July 10, 2024. This two-week extension aims to provide state institutions additional time to comply with data submission requirements.
3. **Data Requirements**: Institutions are required to submit comprehensive student information including JAMB numbers, matriculation numbers, admission details, full names, academic levels, faculties, departments, program durations, fees, and gender of eligible students. Incomplete or inaccurate data submissions may lead to delays or disqualification of student loan applications.
4. **Importance of Accuracy**: NELFUND emphasizes the importance of accurate data to facilitate a seamless verification process and ensure that students receive timely financial support.
5. **Call for Compliance**: The Fund urges remaining state institutions to expedite their data submission processes to avoid disadvantaging students who rely on these loans for their education.
This delay underscores the logistical challenges in coordinating financial aid programs across Nigeria’s diverse tertiary education landscape, highlighting the need for streamlined data management and institutional cooperation.