FG laments poor financial management in Colleges and Polytechnics.
The Federal Government has observed that the sub-biggest sector’s difficulty is poor management of monies granted to tertiary institutions, particularly polytechnics and colleges of education.
Minister of Education, Adamu Adamu, made the remarks during the inauguration of the governing councils of eight new federal polytechnics and six new federal colleges of education. He also cautioned council members against corruption and meddling in the institutions’ day-to-day activities.
“Poor fund management continues to be a significant operating bottleneck in the sector,” he stated. It is expected that the government’s limited money will be used prudently.
“Also, because the government cannot supply all of the funding required to operate polytechnics and colleges of education, councils should think creatively and seek other revenue sources outside of government appropriations.
“In this context, councils should solicit assistance for their schools from philanthropic organizations, people, and other sources of cash through investments,” he stated.
Adamu warned that President Muhammadu Buhari would not hesitate to disband any council proven to be corrupt and/or inept, but said that with the calibre of men and women inaugurated, “I am hopeful that he would not have to employ his powers in this area.”
Adamu advised councils to adhere to the federal character principle when appointing staff, noting that some institutions have devolved into parochial and primordial enclaves, and the concept of universalism in education has been abandoned, particularly in areas of staff hiring.
He tasked members of the councils in particular with collaborating with the Federal Character Commission to ensure compliance.
The minister added that the drive to improve the quality of higher education output in Nigeria is the responsibility of governing councils, adding that he was confident they would bring their wealth of experience, adherence to and respect for the rule of law and due process, to bear in carrying out their responsibilities.
