The Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) has inaugurated a seven member Advisory Committee to facilitate the establishment and effective utilisation of multipurpose laboratories in tertiary institutions across the six geopolitical zones of the country.
The Executive Secretary of TETFund, Sonny Echono, inaugurated the committee in Abuja on Tuesday, charging members to provide strategic direction for the initiative within one month.
The committee is chaired by former Acting Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission, Chris Maiyaki.
Speaking at the event, Echono said the committee is expected to offer guidance on the design, equipment specification, deployment and sustainable management of the laboratories to ensure maximum impact.
“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.
He explained that the panel would review and update the previously recommended equipment list, taking into account rapid technological changes and the risk of obsolescence.
According to him, the committee’s terms of reference include reviewing and updating the proposed equipment list; recommending high quality and cost effective equipment for phased procurement; and assessing the adequacy of the management framework for the laboratories.
Other responsibilities include proposing measures to ensure effective operationalisation and long term sustainability of the facilities, including fostering industry collaboration and exploring revenue generation opportunities.
“We are living in times of rapid obsolescence. The technology field is very disruptive. There is a need for constant review,” Echono added.
He stressed that sustainable economic growth depends on innovative, solution driven research supported by adequate infrastructure, assuring that the laboratories would be equipped with alternative power supply to guarantee uninterrupted research activities.
Responding on behalf of the committee, Maiyaki thanked TETFund for the confidence reposed in the members and pledged their commitment to delivering on the assignment within the stipulated timeframe.
“We do not take for granted the confidence and trust bestowed on us to contribute our quota to the successful execution of this very important national assignment of historic significance,” he said.
He noted that members, drawn from leading figures in research, higher education and governance, had studied the terms of reference and were prepared to meet expectations.
Maiyaki added that the proposed high-tech, centralised academic and research laboratories would help bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application in Nigeria’s tertiary institutions.