As the demand for Higher Education surpasses available opportunities in Nigeria, the Senate and the National Universities Commission (NUC) have renewed calls for establishing more universities. This appeal was made during a public hearing organised by the Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETFUND in Abuja, focusing on the proposed Federal University, Okigwe, in Imo State. The discussions centred on the increasing number of youths seeking Tertiary Education who cannot secure admission due to the limited capacity of existing institutions. The stakeholders stressed the need for urgent intervention to bridge this gap and provide millions of students access to quality schools.
Currently, Nigeria has 275 universities, including federal, state, and private institutions. However, with over two million prospective students applying for university admission each year, only about 500,000 to 700,000 are accommodated. This leaves over 1.3 million students without access to tertiary Education annually. Private institutions have partly alleviated the situation, but these institutions remain financially inaccessible for many Nigerians. The need for additional federal and state institutions that offer affordable education is evident, especially for underserved regions and communities.
Existing challenges and proposed categorisation in institutions.
Despite the call for more universities, there are concerns about the state of existing institutions. Many universities are underfunded and struggle with outdated infrastructure, overcrowded classrooms, and limited access to modern teaching tools. These challenges undermine the quality of education and make it difficult for graduates to meet global standards. Addressing these shortcomings requires more Investment in educational infrastructure, libraries, laboratories, and staff training. Without improving the quality of teaching and learning in current institutions, the establishment of new universities may fail to deliver meaningful progress.
To enhance efficiency and functionality, it will be suggested that institutions be categorised based on their areas of specialisation. This approach would see some institutions focusing solely on undergraduate education while others could specialise in research or postgraduate programs. Categorising universities would help align them with their core strengths and allow for more targeted funding. Teaching-oriented universities, for instance, could prioritise training students for the job market, while research institutions could collaborate with industries to develop innovative solutions for national challenges.
Investing in schools to balance educational quantity and quality.
Nigeria’s allocation to education remains lower than that of many developed countries. The nation spends excessively on Politics while neglecting critical sectors like education and vocational training. For example, South Korea, which invests up to 60% of its annual budget in education and training, has become a global economic powerhouse. To improve its educational outcomes, Nigeria needs to prioritise funding for institutions and technical training centres. An increase in budgetary allocation could enhance the quality of learning, improve research, and create opportunities for economic development.
While establishing more institutions can help accommodate the growing number of applicants, this expansion must not come at the expense of quality. Strengthening the Infrastructure and facilities of existing universities should be a concurrent priority. This includes addressing staff welfare, upgrading teaching materials, and providing access to modern technology. By improving the current system, the government can create a foundation for sustainable growth in the education sector. This approach of expanding access and enhancing quality is vital for meeting the needs of the nation’s growing population.
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Another critical perspective is the need to diversify educational pathways. Meanwhile, Nigeria’s emphasis on university education has sidelined vocational and technical training, leaving gaps in critical skill-based industries. Developing Vocational Training centres and artisan schools can provide alternative routes to employment and entrepreneurship. These programs would equip Nigerians with practical skills, reducing the pressure on institutions while addressing the country’s workforce demands. However, the future of Nigeria’s Economy and society depends on the steps taken today to improve its educational infrastructure and opportunities.