A Rising Talent Hub
Sonny Echono, the Executive Secretary of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), has stated that Nigeria is quickly becoming a global hub for skilled labor. He praised Nigeria’s education system for producing graduates who are now in demand worldwide.
Nigerian Graduates Making Waves
Echono emphasized that, despite challenges, Nigerian graduates are competitive in the global job market. Many now work for multinational companies while staying in Nigeria. This demonstrates that Nigeria’s skilled workforce is gaining international recognition.
Nigeria’s Advantage in a Changing World
Echono attributed Nigeria’s rise to the policies of President Bola Tinubu’s administration. These policies have made Nigeria an attractive location for skilled labor. Many advanced nations face aging populations and a decline in birth rates. These countries need younger workers, and Nigeria’s educated youth are stepping up to meet this demand.
TETFund’s Contribution to Education
Echono also highlighted TETFund’s role in improving Nigeria’s education sector. The Fund has supported over 40,000 postgraduate students, both locally and abroad. TETFund is heavily investing in upgrading facilities at Nigerian universities to ensure they remain competitive and continue to meet the growing demand for education.
Efficient Resource Management
Echono assured the public that TETFund is managing its resources effectively despite the growing number of public tertiary institutions. The increase in education tax revenue enables the Fund to support more institutions without sacrificing quality. The management team ensures that all projects are completed on time and within budget to avoid the effects of inflation.
Looking Ahead to Legacy Projects
Echono dedicated the Education Icon award he received to President Tinubu, Minister of Education Dr. Tunji Alausa, and the entire TETFund team. He said this recognition would inspire them to push forward with legacy projects that will transform Nigeria’s universities. He also called on university management to provide full support to ensure the success of these projects.