Nigerian Government Approves N25 Billion for Upgrading Labs and Workshops in Tertiary Institutions

Echono also noted the approval of an additional N5 billion specifically for skills-related equipment in polytechnics, urging these institutions to focus on three to five key skills areas to help alleviate unemployment and enhance economic contributions through skill acquisition.

Jun 12, 2024 - 14:27

Nigerian Government Approves N25 Billion for Upgrading Labs and Workshops in Tertiary Institutions

The Federal Government of Nigeria has sanctioned N25 billion for the enhancement of laboratories and workshops across public universities, polytechnics, and technical colleges. This announcement was made by Sonny Echono, the Executive Secretary of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), during the inauguration of a 55-member committee for the National Research Fund Screening and Monitoring Committee (NRFS&MC) in Abuja.

Additionally, 48 members of the Technical Advisory Group (TAG) were also inaugurated at the event. Echono emphasized the Fund's commitment to improving the quality and functionality of laboratory equipment, highlighting past challenges related to maintenance and infrastructure.

Echono also noted the approval of an additional N5 billion specifically for skills-related equipment in polytechnics, urging these institutions to focus on three to five key skills areas to help alleviate unemployment and enhance economic contributions through skill acquisition.

Education Minister Prof. Tahir Mamman, who officiated the committee inaugurations, stressed the importance of academic research and innovation in national development. He reaffirmed the government's dedication to reskilling education at all levels to better equip the youth.

This initiative reflects a significant policy shift aimed at leveraging tertiary education for economic growth and development.