ABSU Regains Access to TETFund Research and Training Grants Following Years of Suspension

Abia State University, Uturu (ABSU), has successfully regained access to the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) Institution-Based Research Fund (IBRF), staff training, and conference interventions after many years of cessation.

The University had previously lost access to research funding and academic staff training and TETfund sponsored conferences due to challenges associated with the proper accounting of previously disbursed grant funds to beneficiaries.

The restoration of these critical interventions followed the appointment of Professor Ndukwe J. Okeudo as the Vice-Chancellor of the University. In demonstrating visionary leadership and commitment to academic advancement, the Vice-Chancellor appointed Professor Amadike Ugbogu as the Director of Research and Publications/TETFund Desk Officer.

Upon assumption of office, Professor Amadike Ugbogu immediately embarked on a comprehensive review and reconciliation process to address all outstanding issues and backlogs that had hindered the University’s access to the IBRF grants, staff training, and conference interventions. Through his diligence and administrative expertise, all outstanding documentation and accountability requirements were successfully resolved, thereby restoring ABSU’s eligibility for these critical interventions.

In a major milestone achievement, thirty three (33) staff members of the University have emerged as beneficiaries of the recently released IBRF grants, with the first tranche of payments already disbursed to the beneficiaries. In addition, nine (9) academic staff members secured fully funded PhD sponsorships.

Speaking during the University’s recent Senate meeting, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ndukwe J. Okeudo, expressed profound satisfaction with the tireless efforts and dedication of Professor Amadike Ugbogu in restoring ABSU’s TETFund interventions. The Vice-Chancellor further commended the Director’s commitment to academic excellence and institutional development.

As part of the ceremony, the Vice-Chancellor formally presented the IBRF grant award letters to the beneficiaries, describing the achievement as the beginning of a new chapter in research advancement and staff development within the University. He further encouraged both teaching and non-teaching staff to take advantage of the opportunity, noting that selections are strictly on merit.

The restoration of the IBRF interventions, staff training, and conference sponsorship is expected to significantly boost research productivity, innovation, and academic growth at Abia State University, Uturu."