IMPACT OF TETFUND INTERVENTIONS ON RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT IN NIGERIAN UNIVERSITIES

Abstract

The Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND) was established by the Nigerian government to revitalize the tertiary education system, with particular emphasis on research and development. Nigerian universities play a crucial role in knowledge creation, technological advancement, and socio-economic development. However, for decades, they have been characterized by inadequate funding, poor infrastructure, low research output, and weak global competitiveness. This paper critically examines the interventions of TETFUND in Nigerian universities, particularly their impact on research and development. Using descriptive analysis and secondary data from government reports, scholarly articles, and institutional records, the study found that TETFUND has significantly enhanced research capacity through grants, sponsorship of postgraduate training, conference attendance, and provision of research infrastructure. Despite these achievements, issues such as mismanagement of funds, limited international collaboration, and excessive dependence on government interventions still hinder optimal outcomes. The study concludes that while TETFUND has made tremendous contributions to research in Nigerian universities, sustainable progress requires improved accountability, diversification of funding sources, and stronger linkages between research and national development priorities.