PROSPECTS AND CHALLENGES OF TETFUND AS A FUNDING AGENCY FOR HIGHER EDUCATION IN NIGERIA: Implication For Policy And Practice
Ann James PHD, Faith Attah, Mariku John, Dr. Zachariah John Department Of Educational Foundation Taraba State University, Jalingo
Volume 4, Issue 2, December 2024
The Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) has been a crucial funding agency for higher education in Nigeria since its establishment in 1993. This paper examines the prospects and challenges faced by TETFund in effectively supporting the growth and development of Nigeria's higher education sector and the implication for policy implementation and practices. The paper delves into the various obstacles that TETFund has encountered, including inadequate funding, bureaucratic bottlenecks, unequal distribution of resources, and the need for improved transparency and accountability. The study analyzes the impact of these challenges on the quality of education, infrastructure, and research activities within Nigerian universities and other tertiary institutions. It also explores the strategies and interventions implemented by TETFund to address these challenges and enhance its effectiveness as a funding agency. The findings of this research paper highlight the need for a comprehensive review of TETFund's operational framework/policy, increased government support, and the implementation of robust monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to ensure the efficient utilization of resources. The paper concludes by proposing recommendations to strengthen TETFund's capacity to fulfill its mandate and contribute to the overall improvement of higher education in Nigeria.