Democracy Funding

1. Project Overview

We present our project proposal, addressing a critical issue affecting undergraduate students in Nigeria, particularly at the University of Lagos, with a recent 400% tuition fee hike, and in South Africa, notably at the University of Pretoria, which witnessed a 50% registration fee hike over the past year.

Our project, "Empowering Economically Vulnerable Students for Success," provides grants to 20 student entrepreneurs—10 from each country. These students bear the sole responsibility for funding their education through side businesses on the campuses, making their financial situation particularly challenging.

Our primary goal: Prevent these students from dropping out due to recent fee hikes, while nurturing their entrepreneurial ambitions.

2. Background Information

Recent changes in higher education are impacting students in Nigeria and South Africa.

University of Lagos, Nigeria
The University of Lagos, a federal institution, recently revamped its mandatory fee structure, effective September 1st, 2023. This decision, driven by economic conditions and the removal of fuel subsidies by the Nigerian government, resulted in a significant 400% tuition fee increase. This places a heavy financial burden on students, especially those relying on on-campus businesses to fund their education.

University of Pretoria, South Africa
Similarly, in South Africa, the University of Pretoria witnessed a substantial fee restructuring, with undergraduate registration fees soaring by 50% in the past year. These adjustments, influenced by broader economic factors, impact students' pursuit of education.

Lack of access to affordable, quality education remains a significant barrier to youth engagement in democratic processes in Africa. Our project proposal directly addresses this challenge, offering hope to 20 enterprising students facing shifting financial tides.

3. Project Goals

Our project centers on three key objectives:

Academic Continuity: Ensure 20 student entrepreneurs and their employees can continue their education without the risk of dropping out due to recent fee hikes.

Entrepreneurial Empowerment: Provide financial assistance and offer information on funding opportunities to sustain academic pursuits and empower students to grow their entrepreneurial ventures while studying.

Mentorship and Leadership Development: Collaborate with local experts and Obama Leadership Network volunteers to offer mentorship and training, nurturing students' leadership potential for sustainable enterprises and democratic participation.

4. Alignment with Democracy CoP's Vision, Mission, and Purpose

Our project strongly aligns with Democracy CoP's core ideals:

Vision: We contribute to the strengthening of democracy by ensuring affordable access to education, promoting entrepreneurship, and actively engaging in community service.

Mission: Our project facilitates the active participation of historically marginalized student entrepreneurs in democratic processes by providing support for their education and businesses.

Purpose: We actively nurture a culture of equity and inclusion among students, equipping them with knowledge, amplifying their voices, and playing a pivotal role in fostering a more just and equitable world.

5. Project Implementation

We have outlined a clear plan for the effective implementation of our project:

Selection Process: A committee of student representatives and local business experts will choose 20 student entrepreneurs based on financial need and their commitment to education and entrepreneurship.

Grant Allocation: Selected students will receive a $150 business grant to overcome financial challenges.

Mentorship and Training: We'll enlist experts from universities and the Obama Leadership Network to enhance students' business skills through mentorship and training.

Funding Opportunities: We'll provide information on funding opportunities from individuals, corporations, and institutions.

Monitoring and Evaluation: A dedicated team will monitor and support students to ensure their success in balancing education and entrepreneurship.

6. Budget

We are seeking $3,333 in funding from the Democracy Circle of Practice, with the allocation as follows:

• Business Grants for 20 Student Entrepreneurs: $3,000
• Mentorship and Training Expenses: $150
• Monitoring and Evaluation: $183
  
  

7. Team

Bolaji Kareem - Obama Leader Africa 2023 
An architect by profession, founder and project leader of Comrade Nigeria, a civic engagement group.

Thokozile Nhlumayo - Obama Leader Africa 2023 
An advocate for social justice, founder of the NotTooYoungToLead movement and the LGBTQI+ Political Leaders Program.