President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has sanctioned a ₦10 billion take-off grant for the newly upgraded Federal University of Education, Pankshin (FUEP) in Plateau State.
This financial support aims to facilitate the smooth transition of the institution from its former status as the Federal College of Education, Pankshin, to a full-fledged university.
The announcement was made by Yusuf Adamu Gagdi, the representative for Pankshin/Kanke/Kanam Federal Constituency, during the official unveiling ceremony of the new university. The National Universities Commission (NUC) also conducted a site assessment in Pankshin Local Government Area to further cement the institution’s establishment.
Gagdi, who sponsored the bill for the college’s upgrade, expressed his satisfaction with the development, noting that the journey to this point had been long and challenging. He explained that although the bill was signed into law by former President Muhammadu Buhari, its implementation had faced delays due to issues within the Ministry of Education.
“Buhari approved the bill, overriding the Ministry of Education’s concerns, but there were challenges in getting it to commence. Many critics accused me of fabricating the approval,” Gagdi said.
“Today, I am vindicated as President Tinubu has not only approved the take-off grant but also ensured the university’s smooth establishment.”
Gagdi revealed that his appeal to President Tinubu highlighted the difficulties newly established universities face in receiving funding from the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund). Tinubu responded by approving the ₦10 billion grant to cover the initial stages of the university’s development.
“The President approved over ₦10 billion to ensure the Federal University of Education, Pankshin, has the necessary resources to begin operations,” Gagdi added.
In addition to the financial grant, the federal government has approved 161 recruitment slots for new staff, addressing the institution’s immediate workforce needs. Gagdi has handed over the recruitment approval to the university’s Governing Board Chairman, ensuring that the university will be well-staffed as it prepares for its official launch.
The grant will be disbursed through TETFund, and it is expected to support the foundational activities necessary for the university’s development, positioning FUEP as a vital center for educational advancement in Plateau State.
