Inauguration of the Steering Committee
The Chairman of TETFund’s Board of Trustees, Hon. Aminu Masari, disclosed the plan on Wednesday during the inauguration of the Steering Committee on Alternative Energy Solution Initiative. Masari, a former governor of Katsina State, emphasized the importance of reliable power supply in enhancing the quality of education and research in tertiary institutions.
“Power demand is critical to learning and research, preparing the way for the development of students,” Masari stated. He also highlighted the challenges posed by rising electricity tariffs and other factors affecting power supply in these institutions.
The committee, chaired by Hon. Sunday Adepoju, a member of TETFund’s Board of Trustees, has been given an initial two months to submit a preliminary report. The committee will also play a key role in implementing the initiative.
Government’s Previous Efforts
The federal government had previously initiated plans to provide power to tertiary institutions through the Rural Electrification Agency (REA). The REA aimed to install captive solar hybrid power plants in 15 federal tertiary institutions and two teaching hospitals as part of efforts to increase electricity access for underserved communities.
Impact of Power Challenges
The lack of reliable power supply has long been a major challenge for tertiary institutions in Nigeria, disrupting academic activities and hindering research. The new initiative by TETFund is expected to improve the learning environment, boost research capabilities, and enhance the overall quality of education in these institutions.