By Our Correspondent
The Anambra governorship race has taken a new turn as Mr. John Chuma Nwosu (JCN), candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has pledged to restore bursary payments for students across the state.
The bursary scheme, once a vital relief for parents and undergraduates, has been abandoned for years. Nwosu said its revival is not just about welfare but about securing Anambra’s future in line with Goal #4 of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which seeks to “ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.”
“Education is the bedrock of progress. No child should be left behind or denied the chance to learn because of poverty. By restoring bursaries, we will ease the burden on parents and empower our youths to rise, innovate, and lead. Affordable education also strengthens gender mainstreaming at an early stage. Anambra’s tomorrow begins with the education of her children today,” JCN declared.
His promise drew loud applause from students and parents, who described it as a “game-changer” in a state where rising tuition fees have left many families struggling.
Mrs. Ifeoma Okeke, mother of three undergraduates, said the pledge would ease pressure on families and help students remain focused on their studies.
Students also expressed excitement. Chinedu, a final-year student at UNIZIK, said JCN’s plan shows he understands their struggles. “With bursary restored, education will no longer be a privilege but a right,” he said.
Analysts believe the pledge could win JCN significant support among youths—who form a large voting bloc—as well as parents who see education as the surest path to prosperity.
With growing momentum, JCN’s campaign slogan now resonates widely: “ADC – the People’s Choice and the Students’ hope.
