Stakeholders in education sector have called on the Federal Government to include private universities in the country among the beneficiaries of Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND).
This was hallmark of discussion on Saturday as secretaries of education committee across all all zones of Nasru-il Lahi-l-Fathi, NASFAT gathered at Fountain University, Osogbo to chart an alternative funding for faith based institutions.
The summit which has a theme NASFAT education and quality assurance, had in attendance erudite scholars, academics and leaders from NASFAT.
In his presentation, the Vice Chancellor, Al-Hikmoh University, Ilorin, Professor Ibrahim Taofeeq held that tertiary institutions is non-profit making organization as against the public belief that it’s an investment.
He said the perceived profits are always channeled back to the institution in order to keep it updated and at the top of its operations.
“University is supposed to be non-profit making organization as against the public belief that it’s an investment. People must be ready to contribute to the advancement of tertiary institution, especially faith-based schools.
“Alternative funding is very essential for development of private universities. This can only be achieved when members of the faith organization owing the university, management and staff of the institution, and other individuals come together to collaborate on advancement of the schools,” Taofeeq said.
The don called on the Federal Government to include private universities as beneficiaries of TETFUND, arguing that the funds being accessed are collective patrimony of all Nigerians.
He said students of institutions should not be cheated as the currently facilities in public schools cannot accommodate every admission seekers.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Vice Chancellor of Fountain University, Prof Amidu Sanni highlighted the achievements of the varsity since he came on board.
Sanni charged members of NASFAT to always come close to the school and bring forward ideas towards making it a financially viable institution.
Also speaking at the event was the Education secretary of NASFAT, Dr Rahmat Adisa who called on FG to ensure they join hand with faith based institutions towards building a perfect society.
Dr Adisa also lend her voice to the call for alternative financing git tertiary institutions.
Members of NASFAT also contributed to the discussion during interactive session as many of them offer valuable advice towards making Fountain University a world class institution.
The education committee secretaries of NASFAT taken on a project tour by the VC and other top management officials of the institution.
