Teesside University Extends Flight Assistance to Nigerian Students in the UK

Teesside University has announced a compassionate initiative to provide flight assistance to Nigerian students currently residing in the United Kingdom. This gesture aims to support students who may face challenges arranging their return flights to Nigeria due to recent disruptions in the aviation industry. The university has partnered with reputable airlines to secure discounted flight arrangements for eligible students. Those who meet the criteria will be offered financial assistance to cover a portion of their flight expenses. “We understand the distress that our Nigerian students may be experiencing during this uncertain time,” said Professor Paul Croney, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of Teesside University. “We want to provide them with the necessary support to facilitate their safe and timely return home.” To qualify for the flight assistance, students must meet the following criteria: * Be a Nigerian national studying at Teesside University * Currently residing in the UK * Have a valid visa that expires before the end of their academic year * Demonstrate financial need Students who meet these criteria are encouraged to apply to the university’s Student Support Services as soon as possible. Applications will be reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis until funds are exhausted. “We are committed to ensuring the well-being of our students, and this initiative is just one of the ways we are supporting them during this challenging period,” added Professor Croney. The university has previously extended similar assistance to students from other countries affected by travel restrictions. This latest gesture reflects Teesside University’s commitment to providing a supportive and inclusive environment for all its students, regardless of their nationality.Teesside University Announces Financial Support for Nigerian Students

Teesside University Announces Financial Support for Nigerian Students

Teesside University in the United Kingdom has implemented a new initiative to assist Nigerian students facing significant financial hardship by sponsoring their flights home, the BBC reported on Tuesday. This move comes after several students were withdrawn from their courses and ordered to leave the UK due to an inability to pay their tuition fees. A financial crisis in Nigeria, exacerbated by the university’s payment plan change, has left many students struggling to cover expenses. On May 22, 2024, a group of Nigerian students at Teesside University were expelled and ordered to leave the country due to payment difficulties. They cited the devaluation of the naira as a primary barrier to meeting their financial obligations, violating their visa sponsorship requirements. Despite requests for support after witnessing classmates facing consequences for late payments, the university maintained that external regulations necessitated these actions. The affected students, numbering 60, expressed disappointment and accused the university of being unsupportive. The Federal Government of Nigeria intervened on May 29, 2024, to address the deportation orders. A delegation led by the Nigerian Ambassador to the UK and student leaders met with university management to find a solution. Following protests and government intervention, the university re-enrolled some affected students and established a relief fund. “We are working with a small group who need to return to their home country and are opening an international relief fund to offer additional financial support for these unexpected travel costs,” a university spokesperson told the BBC. The university also provides options for some students to complete their studies remotely from Nigeria or return to the UK later. The BBC reports that some students have filed legal appeals.Teesside University has stepped forward to offer financial aid to Nigerian students residing in the UK to facilitate their travel back home during the ongoing strike by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU). The university has extended support to cover the full cost of flights for students who are experiencing financial hardship due to the prolonged strike action. Affected students are encouraged to reach out to the Student Support Services team at Teesside University for further guidance and assistance. The move from Teesside University aims to alleviate the financial burden faced by Nigerian students who are eager to return home during the ASUU strike. This initiative demonstrates the commitment of the university to support its international student community and ensure their well-being during challenging times.