The Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), has stressed the need for Nigerian universities to emphasise quality in graduate output rather than focusing on increasing student numbers.
This position was highlighted during the institution’s 15th Registry Annual Lecture held on Thursday, where Professor Hope Eghagha of the University of Lagos delivered a keynote address on the future of higher education administration.
Eghagha warned that an overemphasis on enrolment growth risks weakening academic standards, noting that universities must concentrate on developing competent, innovative and globally competitive graduates.
He argued that the true benchmark for success in higher education should be the calibre of graduates produced, not the volume, adding that institutions must avoid becoming centres that merely issue certificates without corresponding expertise.
The scholar further called for stronger investment in funding, stricter regulatory oversight and continuous capacity development to safeguard academic excellence in Nigeria’s university system.
In his remarks, FUTA Registrar, Mr. Charles Adeleye, appealed to alumni, private organisations and other stakeholders to support the university’s administrative framework, particularly the registry, to enhance efficiency and service delivery.
He noted that sustained support would enable the institution to remain adaptive and effective in managing evolving academic and administrative responsibilities.
Also speaking, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Adenike Oladiji, reaffirmed the university’s dedication to maintaining high standards in teaching, research and community service, in line with its goal of attaining global relevance.
She added that FUTA would continue to address pressing issues in higher education to contribute meaningfully to national development.
Source: Punch
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