The Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) played host to the Tertiary Education Trust Fund(TETFund) Monitoring and Verification Team on Wednesday, July 23, 2025.The visit, which focused on evaluating the progress of four research projects funded under the Batch 8 (2021) National Research Fund Grant Cycle, reaffirmed FUTA’s position as a hub of cutting-edge research and institutional accountability.
The three-man TETFund team was led by Prof. Lawal Bilbis, former Vice Chancellor of the Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto alongside Prof. Ndowa Lale, former Vice Chancellor University of Port-Harcourt and Mr. Kasali, who served as Secretary. The team members paid a courtesy visit to the Vice Chancellor, Professor Adenike Oladiji during which they reiterated the objective of the exercise, to assess the level of project implementation and ensure alignment with the approved funding and research goals.
They commended the University for its enviable track record in research grant attraction and expressed optimism about engaging fruitfully with the project teams.
The projects evaluated included:
1. Development of Polymer-Soilcrete Blocks and Pozzolanic Cement Concrete for Integrated and Sustainable Mass Housing in Nigeria
Principal Investigator: Prof. C. M. Ikumapayi
2. Sustainable Blue Economy in the Coastal Areas of Nigeria Using Livelihood Diversification Strategy
Principal Investigator: Dr. O. A. Thompson
3. Inventory, Biochemical Characterization, Processing, Utilization, and Marketing of Some
Forest-Derived Edible Fruits, Leaves, and Mushrooms in Nigeria
Principal Investigator: Prof. A. A. Badejo
4. Development of a Ballasted Track Monitoring System under Operating Conditions
Principal Investigator: Prof. J. O. Afolayan
The visiting team was received and guided through the evaluation exercise by the Director of the Centre for Research and Development (CERAD), Prof. Kenneth Alaneme, who introduced the
research teams.
The exercise which featured on-site inspections of project locations, equipment, and other facilities procured for the execution of the funded projects saw each research group present detailed reports of their work, shared milestones, and responded to inquiries from the TETFund officials.
In a debriefing session with FUTA Vice Chancellor, Prof. Adenike Oladiji following the inspection, the TETFund team expressed deep satisfaction with the level of work done. They highlighted the University’s commitment to internal monitoring, evaluation, and quality control, praising the clarity of communication and adherence to best practices exhibited by the researchers. The team further encouraged FUTA to continue its supportive role to the research groups, noting that the outcomes of these projects hold significant national impact potential.
Responding briefly, the Vice Chancellor reiterated that FUTA’s continued success in grant utilization and research excellence serve as a model for other institutions and reflects its strategic focus on innovation, accountability, and societal advancement.
A total of 20 projects won by FUTA for the TETFUND NRF 2021 grant cycle have now been visited by the TETFUND monitoring and verification committee.
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