By Ikegima Elizabeth and O.V.Collins
In an exclusive interview conducted by the Association of Campus Journalists, University of Benin (ACJ UNIBEN), Comrade Evans Ohiosumuan, President of the National Association of Edo State Students (NAESS), shed light on the significant challenges faced by students in Edo State. The interview took place after the inauguration ceremony of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) Edo State chapter, held at Edo Youth House, Edo state on Monday, June 12th, 2023.
When asked about the major challenges faced by Edo State students, Comrade Ohiosumuan pointed out that financial constraints remain a pressing issue. He emphasized that a considerable number of students in Edo State hail from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, making it difficult for them to afford educational expenses, including tuition fees. As a result, financial constraints often hinder students’ access to education and their ability to fully engage in various school activities. Taking the opportunity, Comrade Ohiosumuan appealed to the Edo state government to extend its support to students through the provision of bursaries, scholarships, or grants, as such assistance would significantly alleviate their financial burdens.
Continuing the interview, the NAESS President was asked if the Edo State government has effectively involved youths in political affairs over the years. In response, Comrade Ohiosumuan acknowledged the issue of political marginalisation experienced by the youth in Edo State. He highlighted the sentiment among some young individuals that they have been excluded and marginalized from political processes and decision-making. This sentiment, according to the President, arises from a lack of sufficient representation, the absence of youth-friendly policies, and limited opportunities for active participation in governance. However, Comrade Ohiosumuan expressed his gratitude to Governor Godwin Obaseki for his intervention in incorporating youth voices and perspectives into the decision-making processes of the state. He commended the Governor’s efforts, stating that such inclusivity had not been witnessed before, making the current administration truly representative of the youth. “But thank God for His Excellency, the Governor of the state, for his intervention in making youths a part of the decision-making body of the state now as it has never been recorded like this before now. It’s indeed youth O’CLOCK administration. God bless His Excellency Governor Godwin Obaseki,” he said.
As the interview came to an end, Comrade Evans Ohiosumuan shed light on the pressing issues faced by Edo State students, particularly financial constraints and political marginalisation. His words serve as a call to action for the government and all relevant stakeholders to address these challenges and ensure that the future of Edo State’s students is bright and promising.
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