Two hundred underprivileged students across Zamfara State are taking the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination for free thanks to an initiative by the AUG Foundation, which is funding and directly overseeing the registration process.

Beneficiaries were selected from communities across six emirate councils, including Gusau, Bungudu, Maru, Tsafe, Dansadau, and Kwatarkwashi, with coordination designed to ensure transparency, inclusiveness, and equitable representation throughout the state.

Comrade Abdul Bala Gusau, State Coordinator of the Foundation, who represented the founder, Malam Abdulhafiz Umar Barau (Dan Isan Gusau / Magayakin Tsafe), explained during the registration exercise in Gusau that the intervention targets vulnerable students seeking admission into tertiary institutions.

He stressed that working through emirate structures was deliberately chosen to guarantee grassroots participation and prevent exclusion in the selection process.

"This initiative is part of our broader educational support programme. We are ensuring that no qualified student in Zamfara is denied the opportunity to pursue tertiary education due to financial constraints," Comrade Gusau stated.

He disclosed that students who perform exceptionally in the JAMB examinations may be considered for additional sponsorship under the Foundation's scholarship scheme, extending support beyond initial registration assistance.

Representatives of beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the intervention, characterising it as timely relief amid prevailing economic challenges facing families across the state.

They noted that beyond financial assistance, the gesture has restored confidence and renewed hope among aspiring students who had nearly abandoned their tertiary education ambitions due to a lack of funds.

The AUG Foundation continues implementing programmes across education, healthcare, food security, and direct financial support for vulnerable individuals throughout Zamfara State.

Under the leadership of Malam Abdulhafiz Umar Barau, the organisation reaffirmed its commitment to people centered development, youth empowerment, and inclusive humanitarian service, with the JAMB sponsorship representing one component of its broader strategy to address educational access barriers in the state.

The Foundation emphasised that it is directly monitoring the registration process to guarantee that each beneficiary is properly registered and documented without obstacles or bureaucratic delays.