The National Universities Commission (NUC) has approved the establishment of the Cross River State University of Education and Entrepreneurship, officially recognising it as the 67th state university in Nigeria. This happened just one week after the federal government adopted Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED), and the announcement was made in Abuja by the Executive Secretary of the union, Abdullahi Ribadu, during a formal ceremony. The recognition letter was presented to Governor Bassey Otu, whom the Secretary represented to the State Government, Prof. Anthony Owan-Enoh.
This approval marks a milestone for Cross River State, aligning with the state government’s commitment to enhancing Higher Education and promoting entrepreneurship. The newly established university is designed to offer quality learning with a Curriculum that emphasises Innovation and self-reliance. The state government has prioritised expanding access to higher education, and this new institution is a testament to its efforts. The university’s focus on entrepreneurship is expected to contribute to Economic Development by nurturing a generation of job creators rather than job seekers.
Vision behind the university and its expected impact.
By integrating entrepreneurship into its programs, the university is set to play a crucial role in addressing Unemployment in Cross River State. With the Global Economy increasingly driven by innovation and technological advancement, academic institutions must align their teachings with real-world applications. The state government envisions this new university as a beacon of learning that combines theoretical knowledge with practical business and entrepreneurial skills. The establishment is part of a broader trend in the country’s higher education sector, which has seen a significant rise in universities over the past decades.
From just five universities in 1972, Nigeria now boasts over 270 institutions of higher learning, reflecting a commitment to expanding academic opportunities. Ogun State currently leads with the highest number of universities, totaling 19. This has yielded positive results, particularly in increasing access to higher institutions and producing a more educated workforce. The presence of more universities has facilitated human capital development, a key driver of economic growth. As more students gain access to tertiary education, the country benefits from an expanded talent pool capable of contributing to various sectors, including technology, business, and public administration.
Challenges facing the sector and possible solutions.
Despite the growth in university numbers, challenges persist within Nigeria’s academic system. One of the most pressing concerns is the quality of education. Many institutions struggle with inadequate resources, including poorly maintained infrastructure, overcrowded classrooms, and insufficient qualified academic staff. These issues often lead to a decline in the overall standard of learning, leaving graduates ill-equipped for competitive job markets. Meanwhile, funding remains another major hurdle. Many state-owned and federal universities operate with limited financial resources, affecting their ability to invest in research, upgrade facilities, and attract top-tier lecturers.
Insufficient funding also contributes to the frequent industrial actions seen in Nigerian universities, such as staff unions protesting against poor working conditions and unpaid salaries. These strikes disrupt academic calendars, prolong students’ years of study, and ultimately impact the efficiency of the sector system. Another issue is the Brain Drain phenomenon, where highly qualified lecturers and researchers leave the country for better opportunities abroad. This talent flight deprives universities of skilled professionals who could otherwise contribute to research and teaching excellence.
Related Article: Federal Govt Adopts Tai Solarin University
Therefore, increased government funding is essential to ensure the Sustainability and effectiveness of the nation’s expanding higher education sector. Investing in infrastructure, faculty development, and research will enhance the quality of learning and ensure universities produce well-rounded graduates who can compete globally. As Cross River State embarks on this ambitious educational endeavor, stakeholders must collaborate to ensure the success of the new university, including implementing strategic solutions and addressing the challenges faced by Nigerian universities.