ASUU has urged for improved management of TETFund resources to complete abandoned projects and enhance the development of Nigeria’s tertiary education system, highlighting the need for effective use of funds and cooperation between councils, management, and unions to address ongoing challenges.
The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has called for better management of resources provided by the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) to enhance development in tertiary institutions.
ASUU President, Prof. Emmanuel Osodeke, expressed concern that TETFund resources are not being used effectively, noting that many projects on campuses dating back to 2014 and 2015 remain unfinished. He emphasized that TETFund is crucial for sustaining tertiary education in Nigeria, which is in urgent need of transformation.
Prof. Osodeke spoke during the inauguration of the TETFund Board of Trustees (BOT) and Governing Councils by the Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, in Abuja on Thursday. He remarked, “My hope is that this council will help transform our educational system. In the past, our universities hosted students and lecturers from diverse countries, but now, about 90% of lecturers in a typical university are from the same state.”
He further highlighted the importance of wisely using TETFund resources, which he described as a product of ASUU’s struggle. Prof. Osodeke urged the board members and the minister to ensure these funds are managed effectively to address ongoing challenges.
Minister Mamman, while inaugurating the Board and Councils, urged members to leverage their expertise to improve the quality and performance of educational institutions. He stressed the need for them to use their networks to attract resources and support, noting the government’s high expectations for addressing challenges in tertiary education.
Mamman stated, “Your appointment reflects your integrity, experience, and dedication. The diversity of our nation is well-represented in these appointments, and I thank you for accepting the challenge of advancing our tertiary institutions.”
The minister also addressed some of the challenges facing educational institutions, such as limited capacity and disruptions caused by strikes. He encouraged management to see unions as partners, mentioning that ongoing discussions with ASUU aim to prevent future strikes.
According to Mamman, councils worldwide play a crucial role in attracting resources from various sectors to enhance institutions. He emphasized that councils, while autonomous, must operate within national regulations, including financial guidelines.
TETFund Executive Secretary, Sonny Echono, congratulated the newly appointed boards and governing councils, expressing confidence in their ability to fulfill their duties. He underscored the critical role of the education sector in national development, highlighting the need to prepare Nigeria’s youth to seize opportunities and address national challenges.
READ ALSO: TETFund Urges Nigerian Students to Protect Campus Infrastructure During Protests
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