TETFund Suspends Foreign Scholarships Over Cost And Abscondment

The Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) has suspended the international component of the TETFund Scholarship for Academic Staff (TSAS) Intervention, beginning January 1, 2025.

This decision, described in a letter dated November 25, 2024, and signed by TETFund’s Executive Secretary, Arc. Sonny Echono, cited the rising cost of abroad training and a growing number of scholars absconding as reasons for suspension.

The letter was addressed to the leaders of the recipient institutions, which included vice chancellors, rectors, and provosts.

“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,” the letter stated.

The TETFund has urged beneficiary institutions to prioritize local training at Nigerian universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education. According to Echono, this shift aims to reduce foreign exchange pressures, improve local capability, and dramatically increase 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,” Echono wrote.

Scholars who are already enrolled in foreign universities as part of the TSAS programme will continue to receive support until they complete their studies, enabling a smooth transition for ongoing commitments.