Sokoto — Sokoto State government has concluded plans to sponsor 100 indigenes of the state to study science-related courses in Egypt.

Governor Aliyu Wamakko made this known during a farewell ceremony for 23 indigenes of the state that were sponsored by the state to study Arabic at Ainul-Shams University, Egypt.

He said two vice chancellors of two Egyptian universities were already in _the state for discussion on collaboration and partnership, adding that the gesture was aimed at providing more manpower for the state in all aspects of learning. He urged the students to reciprocate the gesture by being good ambassadors of the state and the country in general.

While pledging to give them maximum support the governor, said, "You should justify the huge confidence the government has reposed in you."

Commissioner for Religious Affairs, Prof. Garba Maitafsir said the 23 students would undergo an initial mandatory nine-month Arabic Language course before their main programme.

In another development, Wamakko has he would strive to ensure the development of Islamic and western_ education in the state.

Speaking at the 67th edition of the International Annual Islamic Vocation Course in Sokoto, he said the present administration would continue to make education its priority with a view to engender social transformation in the state.