The Dilemma of Student Sponsorship: Half Decide to Stay Abroad
The Executive Secretary of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND), Sonny Echono, recently revealed that about 50% of Nigerian students sponsored abroad through TETFUND scholarships are unwilling to return to Nigeria after completing their studies.
This trend has raised concerns about the “brain drain” affecting Nigeria, as many of these students seek better career opportunities and living conditions abroad rather than returning to contribute to Nigeria’s academic and professional sectors.
Echono highlighted the need to address the underlying issues driving students to remain overseas, including economic challenges, limited job opportunities, and insufficient funding for research and development in Nigeria.
Efforts are being discussed to create incentives for returning home and contributing their skills to national growth.