The Vice-Chancellor of Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Professor Ganiyu Olatunji, has pleaded with the Federal Government not to scrap the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND), warning that such a move could cripple Nigeria’s higher education system.
Speaking at an education summit in Ogun State, Professor Olatunji emphasized the critical role TETFUND has played in the development of public universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education. He highlighted that the intervention agency has been instrumental in funding infrastructure, research, and staff development, which have significantly improved learning conditions in tertiary institutions across the country.
His remarks come amid speculations that the Federal Government may be considering either restructuring or phasing out TETFUND due to concerns over financial mismanagement and duplication of responsibilities. The OOU VC urged policymakers to reconsider, stressing that without TETFUND, many institutions would struggle to maintain basic academic standards.
Education stakeholders have also voiced concerns, warning that removing TETFUND could lead to a decline in the quality of education, increased tuition fees, and reduced access to higher education for underprivileged students. University unions and lecturers have echoed the VC’s sentiments, calling for reforms rather than outright dissolution of the intervention agency.
Professor Olatunji further called for transparency and accountability in TETFUND operations while suggesting that instead of scrapping the agency, the government should strengthen its oversight to ensure funds are properly utilized. He reiterated that education remains the backbone of national development and should not suffer from policy shifts that could jeopardize its progress.
As debates on the future of TETFUND continue, stakeholders are urging the government to engage in wider consultations before making a final decision. Many believe that a restructured and well-monitored TETFUND will continue to serve as a lifeline for Nigeria’s struggling tertiary institutions.
