Can parents claim University Tuition (T2202) when the student has no income in 2018 and has never filed a tax return?

Since our son made no income in 2018,  we see no need to file a tax return?   Or since he has a T2202A, should he file a return and direct the T2202A amount to us (his parents, since we paid for the tuition)?  Without income will he be able to file a tax return?