The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Bayero University, Kano (BUK) Branch, has awarded scholarships to 18 academically outstanding but financially disadvantaged students under its ongoing Indigent Student Scholarship Scheme.

SolaceBase reports that the initiative, a core project of ASUU at both national and branch levels, reflects the union’s unwavering belief in education as a fundamental right—irrespective of socioeconomic status, gender, religion, or ethnicity.

Speaking at the award ceremony in Kano on Monday, Comrade Ibrahim. Tajo Siraj, Chairperson of ASUU-BUK, described the scholarship program as part of the union’s long-standing commitment to inclusive education and social equity.

“At ASUU, we see ourselves not just as lecturers, but as mentors and builders of society,” Siraj said.

“We work closely with our students—many of whom come from humble backgrounds yet possess great talent and determination. This scholarship is one of the ways we ensure that no student is left behind because of financial hardship.”

Each year, ASUU National awards scholarships of ₦200,000 each to two students from each of its over 80 branches across the country. In addition to the two national recipients, ASUU-BUK awarded ₦100,000 each to 16 more students, bringing the total number of beneficiaries at the branch this year to 18.

Notably, the scholarships are entirely funded through voluntary monthly contributions from ASUU members—deducted from their salaries—demonstrating their commitment to supporting the academic success of underprivileged students.

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“Our members are not rich, but we believe in the power of collective sacrifice to uplift others,” Siraj added.

“These scholarships are funded directly from our salaries. It is a responsibility we take seriously and proudly.”

He further stated that ASUU-BUK has sustained this scholarship initiative for over a decade, and many past recipients have successfully completed their studies and gone on to contribute meaningfully to society.

“To the beneficiaries, we encourage you to stay focused, work hard, and make the best use of this opportunity. May your efforts be crowned with success.”

Delivering his remarks, the Vice Chancellor of Bayero University, Professor Sagir Adamu Abbas, represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Management Services), Professor Aliyu Mu’azu, commended ASUU for its continued commitment to education and social justice.

“Although I was called in at short notice to represent the Vice Chancellor, I am delighted to be part of this event,” Prof. Mu’azu said.

“I congratulate the union for this noble gesture. Without such initiatives, many of us may not be fully aware of the financial struggles facing students in our universities. I urge the beneficiaries to make good use of the award.”

He also encouraged ASUU to formally inform the university management about the event for wider publicity and recognition.

In his remarks, the Convener of the Indigent Scholarship Committee, Professor Muhammad Y. Waziri, congratulated the beneficiaries and emphasized the significance of the support.

“I congratulate all the beneficiaries,” he said.

“It was not easy selecting from over 100 applicants. The purpose of this scholarship is to ensure that you continue your education. We hope to award more scholarships again next year.”

One of the beneficiaries, Muhammad Anas Adamu, speaking on behalf of the awardees, expressed gratitude to ASUU for their support.

“We are deeply thankful to ASUU for this timely assistance,” he said.

“May God continue to guide and strengthen the union for its selfless service to students.”

The event was attended by academic staff, students, and members of the university community who applauded ASUU’s continued efforts to make education accessible to all.