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Private Universities Deserve Student Loan Inclusion – Ex VC

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6 hours ago

Nov 29, 2024.

Former Vice Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Prof. Abel Olayinka, has urged the Federal Government to review policies barring private universities from accessing the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) and extend the student loan scheme to students in private institutions.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that Speaking during the 17th convocation lecture at Lead City University, Ibadan, titled “Resolving The Trilemma of Access, Affordability, and Quality in the Nigerian University System: A Role for the Entrepreneur,” Olayinka emphasized the pivotal role private universities play in national development.

“Although private universities were not established by the government, they are public entities that, in the long run, serve the public good,” Olayinka said, adding that students in these institutions contribute significantly to the country, including through the National Youth Service Corps.

He argued that private universities complement government efforts by addressing the unmet demand for higher education and should not be sidelined in national education policies.

Olayinka noted that while some perceive private universities as profit-driven, they are vital in bridging educational gaps, creating jobs, and contributing to the economy through taxes.

On affordability, he advocated extending the Federal Government’s student loan scheme to private university students, pointing out that many of them are from average-income families striving for quality education.

Lead City University Vice Chancellor, Prof. Kabir Adeyemi, lauded Olayinka’s insights, stressing the importance of collaborative efforts to tackle Nigeria’s higher education challenges.

He reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and producing globally competitive graduates.

Private Universities Deserve Student Loan Inclusion – Ex VC

Olayinka’s call highlights the need for a comprehensive strategy to ensure equitable access, affordability, and quality in Nigeria’s university system.