NUC Set To Unveil Two New Universities In Nigeria Amid Rising Admissions Demand

NUC Set To Unveil Two New Universities In Nigeria Amid Rising Admissions Demand

The National Universities Commission (NUC) is on the verge of revealing the establishment of two additional universities in Nigeria, bringing the nation’s total higher institutions to 272, announced Acting Executive Secretary Chris Maiyaki during a press briefing in Abuja on Thursday…..READ ALSO NUC Declares War On Dollar Tuition Fees In Nigerian Universities

This impending announcement aims to bridge the gap between the growing demand for university admissions and the limited available slots, as highlighted by Maiyaki. With approximately two million candidates vying for admission annually, but only 500,000 to 700,000 slots available, the necessity for more universities becomes apparent.

While this move towards massifying universities contradicts concerns raised by stakeholders like the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), who cite inadequate funding for existing institutions, Maiyaki stressed the urgency to address the frustration faced by families seeking higher education opportunities for their children.

“The approval for two more varsities to bring the number of universities in the country to 272 has been concluded and will be announced next week,” affirmed Maiyaki.

Amid debates on the proliferation of institutions, Maiyaki emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to expanding access to quality education, drawing comparisons to countries like Brazil and Indonesia, which boast over 1,000 universities despite smaller populations.

Furthermore, efforts are underway to revitalize the university system through transnational education partnerships, facilitating the operation of foreign universities within Nigeria. Additionally, the NUC is reviewing applications for distance learning centers, ensuring rigorous monitoring to uphold educational standards.

Responding to recent concerns about private universities charging fees in dollars, Maiyaki clarified that Nigerian universities are prohibited from collecting tuition fees in foreign currency, except from international students. He urged the media to debunk misconceptions and affirm that Nigerian universities adhere strictly to this policy.