TETFund inaugurates seven-man advisory committee to drive multipurpose labs in Nigeria’s tertiary institutions
The Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) has inaugurated a seven-member advisory committee to drive the establishment and effective utilisation of multipurpose laboratories in tertiary institutions across the country’s six geopolitical zones.
The committee was inaugurated in Abuja on Tuesday by Sonny Echono, the executive secretary of TETFund.
The panel is chaired by Chris Maiyaki, a former acting executive secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC).
Speaking at the inauguration, Echono said the committee has one month to provide strategic guidance on the design, equipment specification, deployment and sustainable management of the laboratories to ensure maximum impact.
He said the initiative aligns with the legacy goals of the present administration to strengthen research culture and infrastructure in the country.
“Today’s event is part of the legacies of the present administration to build in this nation a research culture and the supporting infrastructure that will help to transform our country from one of consumption to one that not only produces but is able to compete with its peers across the globe,” he said.
Echono explained that the committee would review and update the equipment list earlier recommended for the laboratories, taking into account rapid technological changes and the risk of obsolescence.
According to him, the terms of reference include reviewing and updating the proposed equipment list; recommending high-quality and cost-effective equipment for phased procurement where necessary; and assessing the adequacy of the management framework for the laboratories.
Other responsibilities, he said, include making additional recommendations to ensure the effective operationalisation and long-term sustainability of the laboratories, including industry collaboration and revenue generation.
“We are living in times of rapid obsolescence. The technology field is very disruptive. There is a need for constant review,” Echono said.
He added that sustainable economic growth depends on innovative, solution-driven research supported by adequate infrastructure, assuring that the multipurpose laboratories would be equipped with alternative power supply to guarantee round-the-clock research activities.
Responding on behalf of the committee, Maiyaki thanked TETFund for the confidence reposed in the members and pledged their commitment to deliver within the stipulated timeframe.
“We do not take for granted the confidence and the trust that you have bestowed on us to contribute our own quota in the successful execution of this very important national assignment of historic significance,” he said.
Maiyaki said members of the committee, drawn from research, higher education and governance sectors, had already familiarised themselves with the terms of reference and were prepared to meet expectations.
He noted that the proposed high-tech, centralised laboratories would play a critical role in bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical applications in Nigeria’s tertiary education system.
