Professors Can Help Government Make Informed Decisions, Says Former TETFund Executive Secretary

Ex-TETFund Executive Secretary, Professor Suleiman Elias Bogoro, has called on higher education institutions in the country to prioritize research and community services.

Speaking at Nile University, Abuja’s 11th Convocation Lecture, Professor Bogoro underscored the need for universities to serve as hubs of intellectual thought for the nation’s progress.

He asserted, “It’s crucial that both theoretical and applied research are pursued to their end. This is the reason why every research proposal must clearly state its purpose.” He further noted that research should always aim to solve problems and deliver results. 

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Drawing attention to Malaysia’s success in transforming its oil palm industry into a profitable venture through scientific innovation, Professor Bogoro emphasized the need for collaboration between universities and industries. He pointed to the TETFund Research and Development Standing Committee (RDSC) as a successful model of such a partnership.

He recommended that universities engage in community services to maintain their relevance at both local and broader levels.

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Professor Bogoro lauded President Bola Tinubu for settling four months of the eight-month salary owed to public university lecturers due to strikes. He also appreciated the introduction of a Student Loan Scheme to assist students from low-income families.

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In light of the recent increase in the education sector’s annual budget and the rise in Education Tax from 2.50 to 3.00 per cent via TETFund, he proposed that additional funds be allocated to meet the non-budgetary funding needs of public tertiary institutions, aligning with the original purpose of establishing TETFund.