Juliet Ezeh
Governor Douye Diri has signalled a major policy shift in Bayelsa’s education sector, pledging to review a proposal for the creation of a Ministry of Higher Education as part of broader reforms to manage the state’s growing number of tertiary institutions.
The proposal emerged from a Visitation Panel set up by the governor to assess tertiary institutions across the state. Presenting the panel’s report at Government House in Yenagoa, chairman Oyovwin Osusu said the expansion of higher institutions in Bayelsa has made the current structure under the Ministry of Education overstretched and inefficient.
According to the panel, separating higher education administration into a dedicated ministry would improve coordination, streamline policy implementation, and strengthen institutional governance. Osusu explained that Bayelsa now operates multiple tertiary institutions, making specialised oversight necessary to address their unique challenges and growth demands.
He added that the recommendation goes beyond administrative convenience, noting that a standalone ministry would align with global best practices in managing higher education systems while enhancing operational efficiency within the state.
The panel also proposed a rotational funding arrangement from the Tertiary Education Trust Fund between key state-owned institutions, including the Bayelsa Medical University and the University of Africa, Toru-Orua, to ensure equitable access to federal intervention funds.
However, Diri clarified that funding challenges affecting the University of Africa, Toru-Orua, are rooted in its establishing law, stressing that legislative amendments—not fund rotation—would be required to unlock full access to TETFUND support.
The governor commended the panel for what he described as a thorough and forward-looking report, assuring that his administration would carefully evaluate the recommendations, particularly the proposed ministry.
He further highlighted ongoing efforts to reposition the state’s education sector, noting that institutions such as the Isaac Jasper Boro College of Education, Sagbama, have achieved full accreditation status under his administration, reversing years of academic setbacks.
Diri reaffirmed his government’s commitment to strengthening tertiary education through improved infrastructure, proper governance structures, and policies aimed at creating a more conducive learning environment.
The move, if approved, could mark a significant restructuring of Bayelsa’s education system, positioning the state to better manage its expanding higher education landscape and improve academic standards.
Juliet Ezeh is the founder and chief reporter at Westbridge Reporters with over 7 years of experience in journalism. She covers crime, industry, policy, and social developments, delivering timely and accurate reporting.