Ministry Seeks Alternative Funding For Higher Institutions

BY IFEANYI UWAGWU

IN a bid to improve the quality of education and the lot of ter­tiary institutions in the state, the Ministry of Higher Education has kicked-off the second higher educa­tion summit to propose a framework for alternative funding for its institu­tions.

The host of the summit and com­missioner for Higher Education, Prof. Nyerhovwo Tonukari in his remarks stated that the summit was necessary as the challenges of higher institutions are multifaceted, encom­passing financial constraints, shifting demographics, and the relentless pace of technological advancement.

While acknowledging the laudable achievements and support of the State Government to the ministry and the institutions in the State, including the funding of salaries of all academic and non-academic staff, implementation of the 25/35 per cent salary review for tertiary institution staff, including several months’ arrears and the provision of bursaries to over 30,000 students annually, he noted that traditional funding models are increasingly insufficient to meet the growing de­mands for quality education and re­search, highlighting the importance of alternative funding strategies that would not only be effective, but also equitable, fostering inclusivity and access for all students, regardless of their background.

Tonukari urged school heads to do more to enhance education in Delta State by adopting innovative strate­gies to secure additional funding to expand and improve their institu­tions mainly through your Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), as there may be several items in their insti­tutions that the State will no longer fund.

He challenged them to justify their position by using their institutions to bring progress to the State by keying in into the MORE agenda of present administration. He encouraged them to submit their proposals on how they will source for more resources and more research grants, reminding them that the proposals should be submitted to the office of the Gover­nor through the Ministry of Higher Education before the end of year.

The Vice-Chancellor of the Ig­binedion University, Okada, Prof Lawrence Ezemonye lectured the audience on the need for Alternative Funding for Tertiary Institutions, cit­ing practical examples of avenues to explore to raise funds.

Prof. Douglas Omotor of the West African Institute for Financial and Economic Management (WAIFEM), also lectured the audience on Sourc­ing for Local and International Research Funding using Innovative Approaches, while the Chairman Indepth Solution Limited and He­zab Consulting Group, Mr Abiodun Adedeji lectured on The Nigerian Economy, The Future of Tertiary Education in Nigeria.

A report of the summit first held in 2009, including the presentation and adoption of recommendations and a communique would be issued later.