NELFUND is helping thousands of Nigerian students stay in school by covering tuition and other educational expenses through its monthly stipend.
That support can be life-changing.
A covered school bill, however, should not become a reason to postpone preparation for life after graduation.
Students who do not have to worry about fees today still need to prepare for the realities of the job market tomorrow.
Here are five things NELFUND beneficiaries should consider doing before graduation.
1. Learn a Skill Alongside Your Degree
A degree opens doors, but practical skills can make graduates more competitive.
Digital skills, writing, design, data analysis, marketing, coding and other in-demand skills can create additional opportunities after school.
2. Gain Real-World Experience
Internships, volunteering, campus leadership and part-time work can expose students to the realities of the workplace before graduation.
Experience often matters as much as qualifications.
3. Build Professional Relationships
Lecturers, mentors, alumni and professionals can provide guidance, opportunities and valuable connections.
Networking should not start after graduation.
4. Develop Good Money Habits
Having educational expenses covered does not remove the need for financial discipline.
Budgeting, saving and responsible spending remain important life skills.
5. Start Planning Early
Graduation comes faster than many students expect.
Career goals, postgraduate plans, entrepreneurship ideas and professional certifications are easier to pursue when preparation starts early.
NELFUND can remove financial barriers to education.
Success after graduation, however, will still depend largely on the skills, experience, discipline and preparation students build while they are in school.
EduTimes Africa, a product of Education Times Africa, is a magazine publication that aims to lend its support to close the yawning gap in Africa's educational development.