TETFund Suspends Foreign Scholarships Over Rising Costs, Abscondment Concerns

Abuja, Nigeria- The Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) has announced the suspension of its foreign scholarship program under the TETFund Scholarship for Academic Staff (TSAS) Intervention, effective January 1, 2025.

The decision, in a letter dated November 25, 2024, from TETFund’s Executive Secretary, Arc. Sonny Echono, points to the escalating cost of overseas training and the increasing number of scholars absconding abroad as key factors behind the move.

The letter, addressed to heads of beneficiary institutions, including vice-chancellors, rectors, and provosts, emphasized the need to prioritize the sustainable development of academic staff training within Nigeria.

The letter read, “In response to the current excessive cost of training in foreign institutions, coupled with the high rate of abscondment of scholars, the Board of Trustees of the Fund has approved the suspension of the foreign component of the TSAS Intervention

Meanwhile, TETFund has directed beneficiary institutions to prioritize local training within Nigerian universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.

According to Echono, is aimed at reducing pressure on foreign exchange, enhancing local capacity, and significantly increasing the number of beneficiaries.

“It is expected that this will conserve and reduce pressure on the foreign exchange rate, boost investment and local capacity in our institutions while significantly increasing the number of beneficiaries of the intervention.’

However, scholars already enrolled in foreign institutions under the TSAS programme will continue to receive sponsorship until they complete their studies, ensuring a smooth transition for ongoing commitments.