The Minister of Education, Tahir Mamman, has disclosed that payment for the revitalisation of tertiary institutions in the country is currently in progress.
This announcement comes as a significant step towards improving the quality of education in Nigeria.
Mamman also revealed that the federal government has given its approval for a substantial salary increase, with a 35.per cent raise for academic staff and a 25 per.cent increase for non-academic staff.
This move is seen as a further commitment to enhancing the welfare of university employees.
The minister made these declarations on Monday at an event held in Abuja, which marked the 60th anniversary of the Committee of Vice Chancellors of Nigerian Universities (CVCNU).
During his speech, he challenged the committee to position Nigerian universities among global institutions that employ science and technology to address their challenges effectively.
Mamman also shared insights into the government’s efforts to provide power to universities through gas-powered facilities using the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) framework.
Initially, this initiative is set to commence with 18 universities, and the selected institutions will be contacted at the appropriate stage of the project.
Highlighting the significance of reliable power supply for educational institutions, research, and cost-saving measures, the minister emphasised the central role of this endeavor.
Recognising the importance of the education sector, a committee was established to devise a roadmap, implementation plans, deliverables, and key performance indicators (KPIs). The committee is expected to submit its report later this month.
In terms of security, arrangements have been finalieed for a meeting with heads of key security agencies to review and bolster the security measures in place for schools.
Mamman reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting public sector universities with adequate resources and encouraged the growth and development of private universities that are increasingly emerging in the country.
He called upon Nigerian universities to produce competent and skilled graduates while also urging them to explore alternative sources of funding, aligning with global practices that supplement government funding.
The minister expressed the government’s keen interest in maintaining a stable academic calendar, fostering learning, research, collaboration, and student exchange opportunities within the country’s higher education institutions. On the occasion of the 60th anniversary of the committee of vice-chancellors, he urged the committee to continue bridging the gap between industries and educational institutions through their leadership.
