The President Bola Tinubu, who was a special guest yesterday Saturday, November 25th, 2023 at the 48th Convocation and 53rd Founders Day ceremony of the institution in Benin City, the capital that Edo State.
He stated that administration is poised to change the narrative of higher education for the better and to place the institution of higher learning on a pedestal that would compete with counterparts worldwide.
President Tinubu who was ably represented by the Minister of Niger Delta Development, Hon. Engr. Abubakar Momoh, the President said that the federal government is working towards the introduction of the policy of full university autonomy.
He stated that, “University autonomy transfers the responsibility of performance directly to individual institutions rather than the state of uncertainty. This administration believes that this is the right step in the right direction.
He added that ,“We will do all that is possible to reposition tertiary institutions and the education sector in the country for excellent service delivery.”
Regarding the government’s commitment to education, Minister Momoh hinted at the planned reintroduction of the Policy of University Full Autonomy and detailed the rationale behind this policy, emphasizing the government’s belief in empowering universities to set their own pace for development.
Addressing concerns about unpaid salaries, he reiterated the government’s steps to mitigate the impact on university staff. He stressed the importance of the ongoing infrastructure development projects funded by the Tertiary Education Trust Fund and affirmed the government’s dedication to sustaining policies that outlive the current administration.
The Minister congratulated the graduands and honorary awardees, urging them to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s development. He concluded the address by lauding the University community for its commitment, echoing President Tinubu’s call to prioritize the overall interests of the institution.
As the ceremony concluded, Hon. Engr. Abubakar Momoh extended the President’s congratulations to the graduands and wished them success in their future endeavors, leaving the audience with a final message of unity and progress.
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