SENATOR LALONG AWARDS SCHOLARSHIPS TO 60 PLATEAU STATE STUDENTS

Shendam, Plateau State – In a significant move to support education, Senator Simon Bako Lalong of Plateau South has awarded scholarships to 60 indigent students from his constituency who are studying at the Federal Polytechnic, Nyak.

The scholarship presentation, conducted on the Senator's behalf by his Legislative Aide, Hon. Nandom Exodus Pennyap, is a key part of Lalong's initiative to empower his constituents through education.

In a statement, Senator Lalong described education as a transformative force that "not only dispels darkness but builds human capacity." He explained that the scholarship scheme is designed to support brilliant students from underprivileged backgrounds and to encourage all youths in Plateau South to prioritize their education.

"Without education, I would not have had the opportunity to serve as Speaker, Governor, Minister, and now Senator," Lalong reflected. "It all began in my village when I was enrolled in school. To replicate the opportunities I have benefited from, I launched this scholarship scheme to give back to the community that has given me so much."

Under the program, 10 students were selected from each of the six Local Government Areas in the Senatorial District. The beneficiaries, who are in ND I and ND II, are studying courses including Business Administration, Electrical Electronics Engineering, and Statistics. The scholarship covers their full tuition fees for the duration of their National Diploma program.

"We plan to increase the number of beneficiaries in the next academic session to reach even more students," Lalong added.

The Senator also reaffirmed his commitment to nurturing the Federal Polytechnic, Nyak, highlighting ongoing constituency projects such as the construction of internal roads and a solar mini-grid within the institution.

The Rector of the Polytechnic, represented by the Librarian, Mr. James Tunlong, commended the gesture, noting it was the first of its kind since the school's inception. He urged the beneficiaries to justify the investment by excelling in their studies.

On behalf of the students, Yahaya Abubakar, an ND II student of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, expressed profound gratitude. "Senator Lalong has made our dreams come true and lifted a huge burden from our parents," he said. The students pledged to study hard and promised their continued support for the Senator in future political endeavors.

Also speaking, the Plateau State APC Secretary, Hon. Fidelis Longban, praised Senator Lalong for setting a positive example and urged other politicians to follow suit. He stated that such initiatives add value to the party and inspire hope among the younger generation.

Hon. Pennyap was accompanied to the event by the APC Chairman for Shendam LGA and Hon. Edward Velwan, the Senatorial Liaison Officer.