The minister noted that the autonomy would allow
universities to source funding through various means to enable them meet their
financial obligations.
Speaking during the 2023 Nigeria Annual Education Conference
which had in attendance commissioners of education from states and other
stakeholders in the education sector, Mamman said the ministry would work to
ensure that the goals of the Tinubu-led Federal Government are met as regards
the education sector.
“As you all know, His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed
Tinubu has publicly declared his commitment to overhaul the education sector as
a matter of priority. It is, therefore important that the Federal Ministry of
Education and all stakeholders in the sector work together to see this vision
come true. The days of long declarations are over, this time, we must work the
talk
“I am also happy to note that the technical sessions have
been structured to address very contemporary and topical issues in the
education sector in Nigeria. Discussions to be held on Tertiary education in
Nigeria which are expected to focus on emerging trends including university
autonomy and the Students Loans Fund as well as education financing align
perfectly with President Tinubu’s vision for the sector.
“Mr. President is determined among others to initiate a new
creative means of funding tertiary education by granting universities the
autonomy to explore new sources of financing their activities.
“In the same vein, your deliberations on enhancing
entrepreneurial skills, vocational and technical education in Nigerian schools
directly speaks to Mr President’s vision of promoting technical and vocational
education as a means of absorbing the millions of young school leavers who
complete primary and secondary schools every year but cannot get admission to
universities, other tertiary institutions or employed with ease.”
Speaking further, the minister expressed sadness at the
murder of the nursing student of the Federal University, Oye-Ekiti, Atanda
Modupe. He however directed the Vice-chancellor of the institution to work with
security operatives to uncover the perpetrators of the crime.
“Last week, the media reported the murder of a nursing
student Miss Attanda Modupe Debora student of Federal University Oyo-Ekkti,
same week that the safe school events took place.
“This is indeed heartbreaking. The ministry directs the
Vice-Chancellor in concerted efforts with the security to uncover the
perpetrators of this heinous crime while i reiterate the ministry’s resolve to
secure our schools. Our condolences go to the family.”