TETFund: A Vital Lifeline for Nigerian Tertiary Institutions – Why Scrapping it is a Recipe for Disaster

TETFund: A Vital Lifeline for Nigerian Tertiary Institutions – Why Scrapping it is a Recipe for Disaster

By Hannatu Lot

The recent tax bill proposing the scrapping of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) has sent shockwaves through the Nigerian academic community. This move, while seemingly aimed at streamlining the tax system, would be nothing short of catastrophic for the future of Nigerian tertiary institutions and, by extension, the nation’s overall development.  

TETFund has played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of Nigerian higher education since its inception in 2011. Its impact extends far beyond financial assistance; it has become an indispensable catalyst for improvement and a lifeline for institutions struggling to meet the ever-increasing demands of a modern world. 

TETFund’s Transformative Impact

Infrastructure Development: TETFund has funded the construction and renovation of essential infrastructure across Nigerian universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education. From state-of-the-art laboratories and lecture halls to libraries and hostels, these improvements have created a conducive learning environment, elevating the quality of education and empowering students to excel.

Research and Innovation:  Through generous grants and scholarships, TETFund fosters a culture of research and innovation, enabling academics to engage in cutting-edge projects. This has led to groundbreaking discoveries, technological advancements, and a significant increase in high-impact publications from Nigerian institutions, enhancing their global standing.

Capacity Building: TETFund invests heavily in training and development programs for faculty, equipping them with the latest skills and knowledge. This ensures that Nigerian students are taught by highly competent and qualified educators, preparing them for a competitive global marketplace. 

Equitable Access: The fund provides scholarships and bursaries to Lecturers of Tertiary Institutions enabling them to pursue higher education and break the cycle of limitations and ugrading themselves to Global standard which in turn will impacts the Nigerian students in how they are being taught and train.This fosters a more inclusive and equitable society, empowering individuals and strengthening the nation’s social fabric.

The Catastrophic Consequences of Scrapping TETFund

Erosion of Infrastructure: Without TETFund’s support, universities will struggle to maintain and improve existing facilities, leading to a decline in the quality of education and a less conducive learning environment for students. 

Stagnation of Research: The loss of funding will cripple research activities, hindering innovation and technological advancements crucial for national development.

Erosion of Faculty Expertise: Without adequate training and development opportunities, faculty members will lack the skills and knowledge to provide high-quality education, leading to a decline in the standard of teaching and research.

Limited Access to Education: Scrapping TETFund will disproportionately affect training of Lecturers from marginalized backgrounds, from obtaining world class standard knowledge and skills, and further exacerbating inequalities and hindering social mobility.

Read Also: Governor Nasir Idris: A Visionary Leader for a New Kebbi

A Long-Term Investment in Nigeria’s Future

TETFund represents a long-term investment in Nigeria’s future. Its impact extends beyond the walls of academic institutions, contributing to economic growth, social progress, and national development.  Scrapping it would be a short-sighted and devastating decision, undermining the foundation of a thriving and competitive knowledge-based economy.

A Call for a More Sustainable Solution

Instead of eliminating TETFund, the government should focus on strengthening and streamlining its operations, ensuring transparency and accountability in fund disbursement. Collaboration with industry, exploring alternative funding sources, and promoting a culture of research excellence will further enhance TETFund’s impact.

The future of Nigerian higher education and the nation’s progress hinge on the continued support of TETFund.  Scrapping this vital lifeline would be a grave mistake, jeopardizing the aspirations of generations of Nigerian students and undermining the country’s potential for growth and development.