The Honourable Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, OON, SAN, formally inaugurated the newly re-constituted Governing Councils of Federal Universities, Polytechnics, and Colleges of Education. The event, held at the Banquet Hall of the State House in Abuja, marks a pivotal step in the Federal Government’s efforts to enhance the governance and quality of tertiary education in Nigeria.
The occasion commenced with Prof. Mamman extending his heartfelt congratulations to the appointed Chairmen and Members of the Governing Councils, acknowledging their proven integrity, diverse expertise, and dedication to national service. The Minister emphasized the critical role these councils will play in steering the strategic direction of Nigeria’s tertiary institutions.
In his address, Prof. Mamman highlighted the current administration’s commitment to education as a key pillar for national development. He reiterated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision of making higher education accessible to all Nigerians, regardless of socio-economic background. This vision is encapsulated in the Government’s “Education for Renewed Hope” initiative, which prioritizes tertiary education and student support services.
The Minister outlined the Federal Ministry of Education’s comprehensive roadmap aimed at transforming the Nigerian education system. The core transformative programmes include:
1. Data Repository: Implementing a detailed and accurate data tracking system for informed decision-making.
2. Out-of-School Children Education: Ensuring educational opportunities for all Nigerian children.
3. Teachers Training and Development: Enhancing the skills and competencies of educators.
4. Skills Development and Digitalization (DOTS): Addressing learning crises and unemployment through digital and skills-based education.
Prof. Mamman stressed the importance of accurate data in resource allocation and strategic planning, noting that countries like India have successfully leveraged technology for educational development.
While acknowledging the achievements of Nigerian tertiary institutions, the Minister addressed the ongoing challenges they face, including:
– Insufficient infrastructure and academic staff.
– Declining government resources and funding.
– Unstable academic calendars.
– Examination malpractices and certificate racketeering.
– Insufficient deployment of ICT and innovative technologies.
– Gender imbalance and social issues such as cultism and drug abuse.
Prof. Mamman called on the new Governing Councils to explore diverse funding sources, including partnerships with the private sector and international organizations, to ensure financial sustainability. He emphasized the importance of transparent and responsible financial management to meet the sector’s needs.
The Minister delineated the clear lines of operation between the Management and Governing Councils of the tertiary institutions, urging the Councils to focus on strategic oversight without interfering in day-to-day operations. He also highlighted the critical responsibility of the Councils in ensuring good management, healthy growth, and development of their respective institutions.
Prof. Mamman reiterated that the Federal Government alone cannot meet the enormous needs of higher education in Nigeria. He urged the new Council members to leverage their knowledge, skills, and wealth of experience to address the challenges facing the tertiary institutions and move them to greater heights.
Concluding his address, Prof. Mamman officially inaugurated the Governing Councils for the Universities, Polytechnics, and Colleges of Education, expressing confidence in their ability to drive remarkable transformation in the nation’s tertiary education sector.
“With determination, collaboration, and a shared vision, we shall overcome the challenges before us and achieve a remarkable transformation for the benefit of our children and generations to come,” Prof. Mamman stated.
The event ended with a call to action for all stakeholders to support the newly inaugurated Councils in their mission to uplift the standards of education in Nigeria, ensuring it meets global competitiveness and national development goals.
