Taraba State Government Set to Sponsor 100 Students to India for Master’s Degree Programmes

The Taraba State Government has concluded plans to sponsor 100 indigenes to India for Master’s degree programmes in various fields of specialization.

The scholarship programme, fully funded by the state government, reflects the administration’s commitment to educational advancement and human capital development. Beneficiaries of the scheme will not pay any for anything as the government has undertaken full responsibility for their tuition, transportation, accommodation, study materials, and feeding expenses throughout the duration of their studies.

Governor Dr. Agbu Kefas has also approved additional support packages for each beneficiary. Upon completion of their studies, the state government intends to absorb the graduates into tertiary institutions across the state to enable them contribute the knowledge and expertise acquired abroad toward the development of Taraba State.

Speaking during an orientation session for the beneficiaries, the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Hon. Mike Dio Jen, stated that the students were selected strictly on merit and drawn from all 16 local government areas of the state. He charged them to serve as worthy ambassadors of Taraba State and Nigeria while in India.

The commissioner further described the initiative as a historic milestone, noting that it is the first time the Taraba State Government is sponsoring youths abroad for postgraduate or any studies.

He disclosed that the beneficiaries are expected to depart next month after the completion of their international passports and the verification of their academic credentials by the Federal Ministry of Education.

Also speaking, an Indian consultant, Mr. Khan, explained that the beneficiaries would not only receive academic training but would also be exposed to professional skills development and career management programmes. He added that the state government has equally paid for their daily mobility in the institutions in India, and their four meals per day, while arrangements are being finalized to ensure the swift approval of their visas and other travel documentation.

According to the state government, the initiative is driven by Governor Agbu Kefas’ belief that sustainable development can only be achieved through deliberate investment in youths, whom he described as the backbone of the economy and the future leaders of society. The administration, therefore, remains committed to empowering young people through education and other strategic opportunities.

The government further revealed that the scholarship initiative will be sustained and extended to prospective PhD candidates in the future.

Observers note that Governor Kefas has a long-standing record of supporting education and sponsoring students abroad, even before assuming public office, making the latest intervention a continuation of his lifelong commitment to youth empowerment and academic excellence.