July 04, (THEWILL) – The Federal Government has inaugurated the newly appointed Chairmen and members of Governing Councils of federal universities, polytechnics and colleges of education.
Minister of Education, Tahir Mamman, inaugurated the council members on Thursday, in Abuja.
Congratulating them on their appointment, the Minister warned them against undue interference in the day-to-day running of the respective institutions.
“There is a clear line of operations between the Management and respective Governing Councils of the tertiary institutions. Councils are not to interfere with the day-to-day management of human, financial, and material resources of the institutions.
“I, therefore, charge you to explore diverse funding sources, including partnerships with the private sector and International Organisations, alumni, endowment and sponsored research to ensure the financial sustainability of your Institutions. It is, however, imperative that the limited funds allocated by the government are judiciously utilised.
“As Governing Councils, one of your responsibilities is to ensure good management, healthy growth and development of your Institutions. One of the challenges that Governing Councils regularly face during their tenure is the appointment of principal officers.
“As a Council, you must ensure that proper attention and priority are given to the relevant Acts of the Institutions and Government guidelines for the process of such appointments as well as ensure fairness and transparency. Governing Councils must, at all times, adhere to the ideals of transparency and probity.
“You are responsible for setting the strategic direction, overseeing transparent and responsible financial management of the sector, and ensuring the overall performance of these institutions to achieve the national goals and expectations of tertiary institutions.
“Governing Councils should encourage responsible unionism in their respective institutions while arresting the problems of cultism and drug abuse by students. Effective strategies should be put in place by Councils for early detection and eradication of social vices such as sexual harassment, theft, extortion and inducement,” he said.
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