Southern Atlantic University announces 30% tuition discount, scholarship scheme for A’Ibom indigenes

Tony Okoh, Uyo

Prospective students from Akwa Ibom State seeking admission into Southern Atlantic University, Uyo, have received a major boost as the Member representing Oruk Anam/Ukanafun Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Uyime Idem, has partnered with the institution to provide scholarship opportunities for qualified indigenes of the state.

Under the arrangement, Akwa Ibom students who scored 150 and above in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and are willing to pursue their studies at Southern Atlantic University will benefit from scholarship support facilitated by the federal lawmaker.

In addition, the university has announced a 30 percent reduction in tuition fees for students seeking admission into the institution, irrespective of their state of origin or country of residence, as part of efforts to make quality education more accessible and affordable.

The Founder and Chancellor of Southern Atlantic University, Pastor Bassey James, disclosed the development during an interview with journalists, describing the intervention by Rep. Idem as a significant contribution to youth empowerment and national development.

According to Pastor James, the scholarship initiative reflects the lawmaker’s unwavering commitment to education and human capital development, adding that the gesture would enable more young people to acquire quality university education and become productive contributors to society.

He recalled that Dr. Idem, who serves as a member of the Governing Council of Southern Atlantic University, had earlier demonstrated his support for the institution by pledging the construction of a classroom block and donating N10 million during the commissioning of the university’s largest male hostel, which was named in his honour at the institution’s recent matriculation ceremony.

Pastor James expressed the appreciation of the university management, staff, and students to the lawmaker for his sustained support, noting that his contributions have strengthened the institution’s capacity to deliver quality education.

“We sincerely appreciate the commitment and generosity of Rt. Hon. Uyime Idem is committed to ensuring that young people have access to quality education. We pray that God replenishes him abundantly for his numerous contributions to the development of education and youth empowerment,” he said.

The university founder stressed that Southern Atlantic University remains committed to partnering with individuals and organizations that share its vision of building future leaders through sound education, entrepreneurship, and character development.

He described Rep. Idem as a distinguished philanthropist and effective legislator whose representation at the National Assembly has positively impacted the lives of constituents and enhanced development across his constituency.

Pastor James further emphasized the institution’s determination to maintain high academic standards while promoting innovation and entrepreneurship among students.

“We have assembled some of the best minds in academia to help drive the vision of this university. Our goal is to build a sustainable educational brand that can compete favourably with leading universities in Nigeria and beyond. Everything is possible when there is a clear vision and a strong sense of purpose,” he stated.

“Our desire is to strengthen the institution for greater productivity and create a lasting legacy for future generations. We are focused on building a university that will continue to contribute meaningfully to national development.”

The criminologist and security communication expert also called on Nigerians to support the growth of the nation’s educational sector, describing education as a critical pillar for sustainable development.

“Nigeria remains a great country and the largest economy in Africa. Every stakeholder has a role to play in advancing education and preparing the next generation for leadership and global competitiveness,” he added.

Pastor James reiterated that Southern Atlantic University’s commitment to providing world-class education remains unwavering, assuring prospective students and parents that the institution would continue to uphold global best practices in teaching, research, and learning.

The university, which has received full approval from the Federal Government, currently offers 15 academic programmes across several disciplines, including Cyber Security, Accounting, Business Administration, Computer Science, Software Engineering, Hospitality and Tourism Management, Political Science, International Relations and Diplomacy, Microbiology, and Public Administration, among others.

Equipped with modern facilities such as smart lecture theatres, an electronic library, and round-the-clock security, Southern Atlantic University is strategically located in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, making it easily accessible by both air and road transportation.

The founder urged parents, guardians, and prospective students to take advantage of the institution’s tuition discount and scholarship opportunities, noting that admissions remain open through the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) portal and accredited Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres nationwide.

He emphasized that the university offers one of the most affordable tuition structures among private universities in Nigeria and encouraged interested applicants to apply before the close of the current admission cycle.