The Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) has approved projects worth N1.8 billion for the development of Taraba State College of Agriculture, Science and Technology (COAST), Jalingo. The Rector of the institution, Dr. Yakubu Ali Garjila, disclosed this on Thursday, shortly after the matriculation of newly admitted students for the 2025/2026 academic session.
Key Interventions and Training Programmes
According to the Rector, the intervention covers critical areas including infrastructure, staff training both within and outside Nigeria, as well as student development initiatives. Dr. Garjila revealed that eight members of staff have been selected for overseas training to pursue Master's and Doctorate degrees, with the programme scheduled to commence in May 2026. He added that local training programmes for staff would take place between July and August 2026.
He further explained that the domestic training would benefit both academic and non-academic staff, noting, however, that only a limited number would participate this year, while others are expected to benefit in 2027. Describing the intervention as unprecedented in the history of the institution, the Rector expressed appreciation to the state governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, for providing an enabling environment for the college to thrive.
“This is the first of its kind. I personally sponsored my Master’s and Doctorate degrees, but under my leadership, TETFund is sponsoring staff for such programmes. I am highly excited,” he said.
Academic Milestones and Infrastructure Challenges
Dr. Garjila also highlighted progress made under the TETFund intervention, stating that implementation so far has reached 100 percent. He noted a significant academic milestone for the institution, pointing out that the recent matriculation included undergraduate students in addition to the usual National Diploma (ND1) and Higher National Diploma (HND1) intakes.
“We had to expedite the matriculation because we are preparing for a convocation soon. The inclusion of undergraduate studies is a major boost for the college,” he added.
Despite the progress, the Rector identified several challenges facing the institution, including gully erosion, dilapidated hostels, and inadequate classroom facilities. He disclosed that a proposal for hostel renovation has already been submitted and called for additional support through special interventions.
“We welcome assistance from individuals and stakeholders who can support the institution’s development,” he said.
