FG To Sanction Schools Awarding Honorary Degrees To ‘Undeserving Personalities'

 Federal Government has warned that Universities who continue to award honorary degrees to ‘undeserving personalities’ will be severely sanctioned.

 This is a warning the Federal Government gave to Vice Chancellors and the Governing Councils of Nigeria on Monday.

 According to the Minister of Education Prof. Ruqayyatu Ahmed Rufai who made the announcement in a meeting with Vice-Chancellors of Nigerian Universities, the issue of such degrees is "an embarrassment to government.”

 Minister said that President Goodluck Jonathan and she were not able to attend the ceremonies due to the lack of coordinated calendar for convocation ceremonies, and directed the Vice-Chancellors to streamline convocation ceremonies so that many universities’ ceremonies will not overlap.

 Prof. Rufai noted that many private and state universities were yet to establish effective governance structures in their schools.

 She also recalled the FG’s dismay over the ongoing establishment of universities and running of programs bypassing the laid down criteria for the establishment of universities in line with globally acclaimed practices.

The Minister warned, “I therefore urge the perpetuators of this illegal act to discontinue henceforth in view of its negative consequences on university education vis-à-vis graduate output.

 On this note, let me reiterate the Federal Ministry of Education’s support to the Standing Committee on the closure of illegal universities.”

 Minister kept on warning the Vice-chancellors against mobilization of part-time students and students from unaccredited programs for the National Youth service scheme (NYSC), which is designed exclusively for graduates from recognized universities with accredited programs.

 The universities breaching this rule will also be sanctioned, she added.

 Prof. Rufai also directed universities to ensure that degree results were released on time to enable the early mobilization of qualified students for NYSC.

 In light of upsurge of insecurity, Prof. Rufai urged university authorities to consult with the local governments as to facilitate internal security on campus.

 Finally, Minister announced that NUC would sanction universities for charging above the approved N2, 000. 00 for the upcoming post UTME.