Rhema University VC Calls for Non-Discrimination in TETFund Disbursement for Private Institutions

In an interactive session with the media, the Vice Chancellor of Rhema University, Prof Ogbonnaya Onwudike, passionately appealed to the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) management committee to review its policy on excluding private institutions from receiving grants for construction and rehabilitation projects. The distinguished academician emphasized that both private and government-owned institutions play crucial roles in shaping the nation's future leaders and should, therefore, receive equal support from the government.

Prof Onwudike asserted that discriminating against private institutions in TETFund disbursements hinders their ability to enhance their infrastructure for optimal educational delivery. He highlighted that Rhema University, a faith-based conventional university under the Living Word Ministries International, is committed to upholding its core values and contributing significantly to the nation's educational landscape.

SEE: Transformative Call to Action: TETFUND Chief Advocates Innovative Funding Models for Nigerian Universities

The Vice Chancellor shared the university's achievements, noting that all its over 20 academic programs have successfully passed the accreditation process of the National Universities Commission (NUC). Established in 2009, Rhema University started with two colleges and has since expanded to include a College of Medicine and Health Sciences, demonstrating its commitment to meeting the evolving educational needs of its catchment areas.

SEE: Rhema University Breaks Barriers: Instalments Welcomed for Tuition Fees to Empower Indigent Students

Addressing concerns about the perceived high cost of education in private institutions, Prof Onwudike emphasized the institution's dedication to ensuring that financial constraints do not deny anyone the opportunity for quality education. Rhema University allows prospective students to pay their fees in installments, and many students benefit from scholarships provided by public-spirited individuals.

SEE: Rhema University Nursing Students Shine in Professional Exams

In response to the criticism often directed at private universities, the Vice Chancellor highlighted the institution's efforts to make quality education accessible, stating, "We don’t want financial constraints to prevent people from accessing qualitative education."

Prof Onwudike concluded by affirming the university's commitment to sustaining its core values, which focus on producing future leaders equipped to tackle the challenges of development in the age of globalization while fostering professional expertise and high integrity among students. As the call for non-discrimination gains momentum, the spotlight remains on TETFund's role in supporting all institutions striving for excellence in education.