The Federal Ministry of Education (FME) has reaffirmed its commitment to improving higher education by convening a meeting with the Pro-Chancellors of Nigeria’s federal universities. The gathering, held yesterday, focused on the vital oversight roles of Pro-Chancellors in enhancing education quality, increasing capacity, and securing resources for institutional growth.
Dr. Tunji Alausa, Minister of Education, emphasized the significance of Pro-Chancellors fostering collaborative relationships with Vice-Chancellors and university management. While management oversees daily operations, Pro-Chancellors are tasked with providing strategic guidance and ensuring accountability.
As part of the Federal Government’s (FG) renewed efforts to align higher education with national priorities, the ministry unveiled funding plans under its six-point agenda, particularly focusing on Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET).
Key Initiatives Announced:
1. Mechanized Farming in Universities of Agriculture
Thirty universities of agriculture will each receive ₦1 billion to initiate mechanized farming programs. This initiative aims to equip students with practical agricultural skills while contributing to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s food security agenda.
2. Healthcare Training in Medical Schools
Eighteen medical schools will share ₦17 billion in funding to enhance the training of healthcare professionals, including doctors, dentists, pharmacists, and nurses.
Dr. Alausa also highlighted innovative approaches for additional funding, such as leveraging research, endowments, partnerships, and marketing of research innovations. The meeting explored collaboration opportunities with NELFUND to secure sustainable financing.
Challenges and Way Forward
The discussions acknowledged challenges faced by federal universities in the past six months, underscoring the need for strengthened oversight and strategic planning.
Regular engagements with Pro-Chancellors and Vice-Chancellors will be institutionalized to ensure alignment with the ministry’s objectives.
The ministry reiterated its dedication to creating a conducive learning environment and facilitating clear communication among stakeholders to achieve President Tinubu’s vision of quality education.
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