FUT Minna Pro-Chancellor Advocates for Increased Funding for Public Universities
Prof. Obafemi pointed out that insufficient funding not only hampers the quality of education but also compels Nigerian students to seek degrees abroad, resulting in a brain drain and a loss of human capital.
AKACHI NOEL 
Professor Olu Obafemi, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council at the Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUT Minna), has urged the Federal Government to provide adequate funding for public universities across the nation.
Speaking at a public lecture organized by the University of Jos chapter of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) in Plateau State, Prof. Obafemi emphasized the critical need for enhanced budgetary allocation to education, highlighting the detrimental effects of poor funding on the growth and development of public universities.
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He underscored the UNESCO standard, which recommends a budgetary allocation of 26 percent for education, noting with concern that Nigeria's budget for education has consistently fallen short of this benchmark, with the 2024 allocation standing at a mere seven percent.
Prof. Obafemi pointed out that insufficient funding not only hampers the quality of education but also compels Nigerian students to seek degrees abroad, resulting in a brain drain and a loss of human capital.
Addressing the challenges faced by university lecturers, Prof. Emmanuel Osadeke, the National President of ASUU, reiterated the union's longstanding call for proper funding to improve welfare packages for educators. He emphasized the need for sustainable solutions to address the persistent issues plaguing public universities.
In his remarks, Prof. Tanko Ishaya, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Jos, pledged support for ASUU's efforts in advocating for improved funding and autonomy for universities. He emphasized the crucial role of ASUU in safeguarding the integrity and effectiveness of the university system.
The occasion, which marked the 2024 Heroes Day for ASUU, provided a platform for reflection on the sacrifices made by union members and underscored the ongoing struggle for the betterment of public universities in Nigeria.
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The call for increased funding resonates with stakeholders in the education sector, as they continue to push for reforms to ensure the sustainability and excellence of higher education institutions in the country.
