Alausa Tasks VCs to Prioritise High-Demand Degree Programmes

The Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Tunji Alausa, has urged vice-chancellors of Nigerian universities to introduce specialised degree programmes to address manpower shortages in healthcare and social services.

He identified Audiology, Occupational Therapy, Speech and Language Therapy, Clinical Psychology and Medical Social Work as priority areas where expanded training could improve service delivery and create employment opportunities for graduates.

Alausa also reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to establishing autism centres across the six geopolitical zones to improve access to specialised care for persons on the autism spectrum.

The minister said universities must align their academic programmes with the country’s workforce needs and growing demand for specialised professional services.

He explained that training more professionals in the identified fields would help close critical skills gaps and strengthen Nigeria’s capacity to provide essential services.

The proposed autism centres are expected to provide access to diagnosis, therapeutic services and research. They would also serve as regional support hubs for families, healthcare professionals and educational institutions.

Alausa commended the chairman of the Federal Government’s committee on the advancement of Audiology, Occupational Therapy and Speech and Language Therapy, Dr Victoria Amu, for her dedication to the assignment.

He urged vice-chancellors and university administrators to collaborate with Amu, relevant regulatory agencies and professional bodies to develop the proposed programmes.

The minister stressed the need to maintain appropriate academic and professional standards to ensure that graduates acquire the competencies required for effective practice.

He added that the Federal Government would sustain reforms aimed at expanding access to relevant education, strengthening institutions and equipping Nigerians with practical skills.

The initiatives form part of the government’s broader human capital development agenda under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, with emphasis on addressing critical manpower shortages and improving access to specialised services.