The Nigerian government’s stance on supporting private universities through the Tertiary Education Trust Fund, or TETFund, has left a sour taste for many institutions, including Wesley University in Ondo State. At the heart of the issue is the federal government’s continued exclusion of private universities from accessing TETFund projects, a decision that has been decried by the institution’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Samuel Obeka. According to Obeka, private universities have been instrumental in contributing to the country’s education system, yet they face significant challenges due to a lack of external funding.
The lack of funding has had a negative impact on the growth of private universities in Nigeria, with many struggling to develop and expand their programs. This was a point emphasized by Obeka during the 18th matriculation ceremony of Wesley University, where he urged the federal government to reconsider its policy and include private institutions in TETFund. The absence of financial support has meant that private universities have had to rely solely on school fees and occasional donations to fund their development, a situation that Obeka believes requires urgent attention.
Obeka’s plea for government support is not just about financial aid; it’s also about recognizing the significant role that private universities play in the country’s education landscape. As he noted, private universities contribute to national development just like their public counterparts, and therefore, they should have access to the same benefits, including infrastructure and research grants. The Vice-Chancellor’s words are a stark reminder that the current system is unfair and that private universities are being left behind.
The exclusion of private universities from TETFund has meant that they have had to find alternative ways to fund their operations, often at the expense of their students. This not only affects the quality of education but also limits the opportunities available to students. By excluding private universities from TETFund, the government is essentially limiting the potential for growth and development in the education sector. As Obeka so aptly put it, “Our growth has been remarkable, but we can do much more if private universities are allowed access to TETFund.”
The call to action is clear: the Nigerian government needs to revisit its TETFund policy and make it more inclusive. By doing so, private universities like Wesley University can continue to contribute to the country’s education system, providing students with access to quality education and helping to drive national development. It’s a matter of recognizing the value that private universities bring to the table and giving them the support they need to thrive. As the education sector continues to evolve, it’s essential that the government takes a more inclusive approach, one that acknowledges the role of private universities in shaping the future of Nigeria’s education system.
