The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, has welcomed the Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETFund, led by Senator Muntari Dandutse, for an essential oversight visit.
This collaboration is aimed at advancing initiatives within tertiary institutions, assessing ongoing programmes, and formulating strategic solutions to address critical challenges, including curriculum enhancements and infrastructure funding.
Dr. Alausa reiterated the Ministry’s unwavering commitment to fortifying Nigeria’s educational framework in alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision. He emphasized the critical role of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) in developing a skilled workforce necessary for the nation’s economic transformation.
“Our nation’s youth are our greatest asset,” he remarked, highlighting that by equipping students with skills in STEM and medical sciences, “we are creating a generation ready to compete and lead on a global scale.”
Addressing the committee’s inquiries regarding resource utilization, Dr. Alausa provided insights into the Ministry’s accountability measures. He informed that 137 schools have been equipped with essential physical infrastructure and qualified teachers, yet additional funding is pivotal to ensure they operate at full capacity.
“With sufficient budget allocations, our commission will oversee these schools to meet the highest standards of education,” he assured.
On the subject of curriculum development, Dr. Alausa reaffirmed the Ministry’s dedication to a balanced educational approach. “Our curriculum aims to shape well-rounded citizens who understand both their heritage and their role in society,” he stated, emphasizing that the National Policy on Education, first established in 1977 and last updated in 2013, remains the guiding document for this mission. “Our priority now is not to draft new policies but to fully implement the robust framework we have in place,” he explained.
Expressing gratitude to the Senate Committee for their guidance, Dr. Alausa pledged that the Ministry would diligently work to address their recommendations. Both the Honourable Minister and the Committee concurred that with targeted investment, enhanced global collaborations, and efficient resource management, Nigeria is poised to achieve a resilient and progressive education system that meets the demands of the modern world.
In his remarks, Senator Muntari Dandutse, Chairman of the Senate Committee, acknowledged the significance of this collaborative effort, stating that the committee’s role goes beyond oversight to advocate for stronger global partnerships.
“We are actively engaging with international allies, including South Korea, Germany, and UNESCO, to explore technical and scientific collaborations that would benefit Nigeria’s education system,” he noted. Senator Dandutse also raised concerns regarding operational challenges, particularly the financial strains universities face due to high electricity costs, urging the Ministry to prioritize sustainable power solutions for uninterrupted access to learning facilities.
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