The National Universities Commission (NUC) has revealed plans to announce the establishment of two new universities next week, bringing the total number of institutions in the country to 272.
Admissions Gap and Expansion Strategy
NUC’s acting Executive Secretary, Chris Maiyaki, highlighted the persistent admissions gap, with around two million candidates vying for university admission annually, while the available quota ranges between 500,000 and 700,000. Maiyaki emphasized the necessity to address this gap through the approval of new universities.
Controversies and Stakeholder Concerns
The announcement comes amid ongoing controversies and concerns raised by stakeholders, including the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), regarding the proliferation of institutions amidst inadequate funding for existing ones. Critics argue against establishing new universities without addressing the financial challenges faced by current institutions.
Massification of Universities as a Deliberate Policy
Maiyaki defended the commission’s decision, stating that “massification of universities” is a deliberate policy to meet the increasing demand for higher education. He acknowledged the challenges faced by families desperate to secure university education for their children and emphasized the importance of investing in education to propel national development.
Global Comparisons and Transnational Education Efforts
The Executive Secretary drew comparisons with countries like Brazil and Indonesia, citing their higher number of universities with smaller populations. He outlined ongoing efforts to reposition the Nigerian university system through transnational education, allowing foreign universities to operate within the country.
Distance Learning and Quality Education Initiatives
Maiyaki mentioned the NUC’s processing of applications for distance learning centers, emphasizing the commission’s commitment to monitoring and ensuring the provision of quality education. He clarified that this initiative does not signify a return to the era of widespread distance learning center establishments.
Clarification on Dollarization of Tuition Fees
Addressing concerns raised by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Maiyaki refuted claims that a private university was charging tuition fees in dollars for Nigerian students. He clarified that the institution only charged dollars to foreign students, reaffirming that no Nigerian university is permitted to charge tuition fees in dollars for domestic students.
The approval for the two new universities is expected to be officially announced by the NUC next week, marking a significant step in Nigeria’s efforts to address the growing demand for higher education.
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BY: ENYOGHASI NGOZI PRICILLIA