VC Advocates for Equal Access to Education Funds for Private Universities
The Vice Chancellor of Trinity University, Yaba, Prof. Clement Kolawole, has made a compelling plea to the Federal Government to eliminate discrimination against private universities in Nigeria. He is urging for these institutions and their students to be included as beneficiaries of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) and the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFund), similar to their counterparts in federal and state universities.
Call for Inclusion in TETFund and NELFund
Prof. Kolawole expressed his concerns during a media briefing held yesterday, in preparation for the university's fourth convocation ceremony scheduled for March 27, 2026. He highlighted the unfair exclusion of private universities and their students from both TETFund and NELFund, emphasizing that students in these institutions possess equal rights to those in public universities.
"It is important to carry them along too because their parents pay taxes. Proprietors of private universities also pay taxes. So, there's no reason for the discrimination," he stated firmly. He argued that the ability of parents to afford private education should not be penalized, as these students will graduate and contribute significantly to Nigeria's social and political development.
Benefits of Inclusion
Prof. Kolawole detailed the specific benefits that inclusion would bring:
- Students in private universities should have access to NELFund to support their education financially.
- Staff members in these institutions should be eligible for TETFund grants to conduct vital research projects.
- This would foster a more equitable educational landscape, ensuring that all Nigerian students have the opportunity to succeed regardless of their institution's funding source.
He stressed that it is high time for leaders to recognize that every Nigerian is entitled to equal opportunities and rights, reinforcing the need for policy changes to support this vision.
Convocation Celebrations
Amidst these advocacy efforts, Prof. Kolawole also celebrated the upcoming convocation as a moment of great triumph. He praised the hard work and dedication of the graduating students, who have successfully completed their academic programs and are making their families proud.
"As a university, our sense of accomplishment is palpable, as this represents another testament that the university's mission to provide quality education, and shape the next generation of leaders, is being fulfilled," he added. The convocation week will feature a lecture delivered by Senior Pastor and Founder of The Covenant Nation, Pastor Poju Oyemade, on March 26, followed by a thanksgiving service, marking a significant milestone for the institution.
