President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has pledged to introduce a policy granting full autonomy to universities, emphasizing that this move will enhance the quality of university education. The announcement was made during the 48th convocation of the University of Benin, where President Tinubu was represented by the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Engr. Abubakar Momoh.
President Tinubu pledges to grant full autonomy to universities, aiming to enhance the quality of education and institutional performance
Edo State Governor assures automatic employment for first-class graduates from the University of Benin who are of Edo origin
University autonomy has long been a topic of discussion in the educational landscape. Full autonomy grants universities the freedom to govern themselves independently, encompassing decision-making powers on academic, financial, and administrative matters. President Tinubu’s commitment to this cause reflects a recognition of the pivotal role autonomy plays in fostering academic creativity, innovation, and overall excellence.
One of the primary objectives of granting full autonomy to universities is to elevate the quality of education offered. Autonomy allows academic institutions to tailor their curricula, adopt modern teaching methodologies, and invest in cutting-edge research initiatives. This move aligns with global trends, where autonomous universities are better positioned to respond dynamically to the evolving needs of students and industries.
The 48th convocation of the University of Benin served as the backdrop for President Tinubu’s groundbreaking announcement. Speaking through Engr. Abubakar Momoh, the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, President Tinubu expressed the government’s commitment to fostering a conducive environment for academic growth. The introduction of full autonomy is seen as a strategic step towards positioning Nigerian universities on the global stage of educational excellence.
President Tinubu believes that university autonomy will directly transfer the responsibility for performance to individual institutions, and he expressed confidence that this step will lead to positive outcomes in the education sector. The commitment to repositioning tertiary institutions is part of the administration’s broader strategy to elevate the quality of higher education and enable these institutions to compete globally.
In response to the announcement, Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki assured that first-class graduates from the University of Benin, who are of Edo origin, would be offered automatic employment in the state’s civil and public service.
However, challenges facing the institution were highlighted by the chancellor, Prof. James Ortese Iorzua Ayatse, Tor Tiv V. These challenges include inadequate funding, limited research opportunities, insufficient academic staff, inadequate infrastructure, and corruption. Despite these challenges, the administration remains committed to addressing them and fostering positive changes in higher education.
President Tinubu’s announcement has generated widespread discussion and anticipation. Stakeholders in the education sector, including students, faculty, and parents, are eager to witness the practical implications of full autonomy. The hope is that this move will mark a turning point in the trajectory of Nigerian higher education, positioning it as a hub for academic brilliance and research innovation.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vow to implement full autonomy for universities is a significant step towards redefining the landscape of higher education in Nigeria. The commitment to enhancing the quality of education aligns with the broader vision of fostering academic excellence and global competitiveness. As this transformative policy takes shape, it is essential to strike a balance between autonomy and accountability, ensuring that Nigerian universities emerge as dynamic centers of learning and innovation. The collaborative efforts of the government, universities, and stakeholders will play a crucial role in realizing the full potential of this visionary initiative.
