Governor Diri Considers Establishment of Ministry of Tertiary Education
Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has expressed his commitment to reviewing the proposal for a Ministry of Tertiary Education in the state. This announcement follows the submission of a report by the Bayelsa State Tertiary Institutions Visiting Committee, which was established by the governor in May of last year.
Committee Chairman Presents Recommendations
During a presentation at the Government House in Yenagoa, Dr. Oyobwin Osusu, Chairman of the Committee, emphasized the growing need for this dedicated ministry. He highlighted the significant increase in higher education institutions within the state, which necessitates a distinct framework for supervision, separate from the existing Ministry of Education.
Rationale for a Separate Ministry
Dr. Osusu pointed out that the expansion of higher education in Bayelsa, currently home to five institutions, underscores the necessity of establishing a Ministry of Higher Education. Such a ministry would enhance the operational policies and structural management of these institutions, aligning them with national standards.
Funding Recommendations
In addition to the creation of a new ministry, the committee proposed that funding from the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND) be strategically allocated between Bayelsa University of Medical Sciences (BMU) and the University of Agriculture, Toruvarua (UAT). This approach aims to ensure that both institutions benefit from TETFUND’s resources, thereby bolstering their operational capabilities.
Gratitude for Support and Recommendations
On behalf of the committee, Dr. Osusu thanked Governor Diri for the opportunity to contribute to the state’s educational development. He expressed optimism that the government would take the committee’s findings into serious consideration.
Governor’s Response to Committee Findings
In his response, Governor Diri commended the committee for their thorough and diligent work. He recognized the importance of Osusu’s recommendations, affirming his administration’s commitment to reviewing the establishment of the Ministry of Higher Education. Furthermore, he addressed concerns regarding TETFUND funding, noting the unique challenges faced by UAT and advocating for necessary amendments to the institution’s establishment law.
Commitment to Educational Accreditation and Infrastructure
Governor Diri reflected on the progress made since he took office, citing the successful accreditation of programs at institutions like Sagbama College of Education. He reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to ensuring that all higher education institutions in Bayelsa meet accreditation standards and provide conducive learning environments. The governor also pledged to set up governing boards for these institutions, further enhancing their operational efficiency.
