The approval of new universities, polytechnics, and institutes of education in Nigeria has been suspended for six years by the Federal Government.
According to reports, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu presided over a Federal Executive Council meeting at the Presidential Villa, when the decision was made.
Following the discussion, Minister of Education Tunji Alausa briefed reporters and clarified that the temporary restriction is intended to enhance the caliber and stability of the nation’s current postsecondary institutions.
The minister stated that the government feels that the fast expansion of higher education institutions has produced difficulties, particularly with regard to upholding strict academic standards and guaranteeing financial stability, especially for privately owned colleges.
Alausa clarified that rather than sanctioning more schools during the suspension time, the administration intends to concentrate on bolstering the institutions that already exist.
He cited the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board’s most current data, which revealed that over 2.3 million applicants sought admission to postsecondary institutions during the preceding year.
Less than 228,000 students, however, were accepted into public universities.
The issue, according to the minister, demonstrates that while there are numerous schools in the nation, admission to public colleges is still restricted.
The National Commission for Mass Literacy, Adult, and Non-formal Education was fully reinstated as an independent commission by the Federal Government during the same council meeting.
The decision came after the commission’s leadership presented a fresh strategy to educate millions of adults nationwide.
In the coming years, the plan is anticipated to concentrate on digital literacy and skills for young adults.
According to Alausa, the government wants the commission to broaden its reach in order to help Nigeria’s tens of millions of illiterate inhabitants.
He clarified that the commission will expand awareness campaigns in rural areas through public education initiatives, radio and television shows, and community learning centers.
Changes to the legislation governing the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria were also approved by the Federal Executive Council.
In order to advance academically in universities and medical institutes, the amendment will make medical fellowships earned through the college comparable to a doctorate.
