President Bola Tinubu has restated the determination of his administration to ensuring a substantial improvement in the education sector.
The President gave his assurance on Thursday while delivering his address at the 31st and 32nd combined convocation of the Federal University of Technology Minna.
Represented by Professor Chinedum Nwajiuba, the President who is the Visitor to the Institution, said in pursuant to improving the education sector, the Federal is increasing funding as clearly demonstrated by the allocation of N2.18 trillion to education in 2024 Appropriation Bill; a budget more than 80 percent higher than the N1.29 allotted in 2023 which makes education the second highest sectoral allocation.
The President added that his administration was also poised to addressing the challenges of staff welfare and infrastructure to enhance teaching, learning and innovation.
He reminded Nigerians that he had granted assent to the Student Loan Act which should already be in effect considering its January 2024 date for implementation.
The President expressed optimism that with the initiative, indigent students would stay in school rather than drop out as had been the case for many in the past.
President Tinubu touched on the issue of insecurity currently bedeviling the nation; with an assurance that government would continue to ensure that campuses remain safe and conducive for learning.
He underscored the need for dialogue and advised unions across tertiary institutions against frequent strikes which he described as harmful to the system.
The President ultimately congratulated the graduands even as he encouraged them to be useful to society and avoid becoming tools in the hands of undesirable groups.