Federal Govt Mulls Financial Autonomy For Tertiary Institutions

The Federal Government is contemplating financial autonomy for tertiary institutions in the country as a way of promoting growth in the nation’s education sector in line with the present administration’s Renewed Hope agenda.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu stated this through the Minister of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, Zaphaniah Jisalo, during the 27th Convocation ceremony of the University of Abuja (UniAbuja) on Saturday.

A statement issued by the Head of Information in the Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, Anastasia Ogbonna, quoted President Tinubu as saying that, “One of the key strategies proposed in the Renewed Hope agenda is financial autonomy for tertiary institutions which will encourage Universities to source funds through grants and corporate sponsorship, promoting self sustainability and reducing dependency on the Federal Government.

“By granting financial autonomy, institutions can be effectively managed funds to enhance competitiveness, strive for excellence in education and eradicate education disrupt cause by strike and let me emphasize that this administration is resolute in its dedication to reforming the nation’s education sector.”

He further pointed out that education is the bedrock of national development, pointing out that the present administration would use education in combating poverty, which is part of its 8-point agenda.

“Quality education for all is a central target of the renewed hope agenda and the President is committed to hasten the delivery of quality education by implementing policies that would prioritize technological base learning resource, administration standard and quality improvement,” he stated

Furthermore, President Tinubu commended the University of Abuja for its micro financial and agricultural projects, aimed at boosting the capacity of the institution towards effective service delivery in education.

While calling for the support of all stakeholders in transforming the sector, President Tinubu advised the graduating students to be good ambassadors of the country and contribute their quota to national development.

“To our graduates, as we celebrate your achievements today, I urge each of you to leverage on the knowledge and skills acquired during your academy journey by contributing positively to the society and ensure a better future for yourself and the nation in general because you’re are the touch bearers of the future of Nigeria and we wait in great anticipation for your impact in your respective fields of endeavours,” the President said.

Earlier, the Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Abdulrasheed Na’allah, said 7,034 students were part of the 27th convocation of the institution, which covered four years.

Highlights of the event were presentation of honorary awards and goodwill messages by key stakeholders in the education sector.