Alausa urges universities to introduce audiology, clinical psychology degree programmes
Tunji Alausa, minister of education, has urged Nigerian universities to introduce degree programmes in audiology, occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, clinical psychology and medical social work to address manpower shortages in specialised healthcare and social services.
Alausa said the programmes would equip graduates with specialised skills, expand employment opportunities and improve access to essential services.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by Ikharo Attah, his special adviser on media and communications, Alausa also reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to establishing autism centres across the country’s six geopolitical zones.
He said the proposed centres would improve access to diagnosis, therapeutic services and research while providing support for persons on the autism spectrum and their families.
The minister said universities must align their academic programmes with national workforce needs and the growing demand for specialised professional services.
He added that developing the proposed courses would strengthen Nigeria’s capacity to provide specialised services locally and address gaps in specialist care.
Alausa urged vice-chancellors and university administrators to work with Victoria Amu, chairman of the federal government committee on the advancement of audiology, occupational therapy, and speech and language therapy, as well as relevant regulatory agencies and professional bodies, to facilitate the introduction of the programmes.
He said the institutions must ensure that training meets the required academic and professional standards.
The minister commended Amu for her dedication to advancing the specialised fields.
He said the initiatives formed part of the government’s efforts to strengthen human capital development, improve service delivery and ensure that the country’s education system responds to national priorities.
Alausa added that the federal government would continue to pursue reforms aimed at expanding access to relevant education, strengthening institutional capacity and promoting skills development under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
