Azare:The Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) has launched 13 projects at the Federal University of Health Sciences, Azare (FUHSA), aimed at enhancing medical education, research, and healthcare services.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, TETFund’s Executive Secretary, Mr. Sonny Echono, announced the projects during a visit to the university in Azare, Bauchi State. Echono emphasized that these developments highlight the Federal Government’s dedication to expanding Nigeria’s capacity for world-class medical education and producing the necessary health professionals to improve healthcare delivery.
Echono praised the university’s governing council, Senate, management, and staff for their efforts in the rapid development of the institution, which was established in 2021. He noted that FUHSA’s progress demonstrates the possibilities achievable through strategic investment and national commitment to specialized medical education.
TETFund has allocated dedicated funding for infrastructure, academic development, research facilities, and institutional growth at FUHSA. Echono addressed concerns over the migration of medical professionals abroad, commonly known as the ‘japa’ syndrome, suggesting that Nigeria should focus on expanding the training of health professionals to meet domestic needs while also benefiting internationally from their expertise.
The inaugurated facilities include modern laboratories, lecture theatres, student hostels, research centers, and essential infrastructure, which are expected to provide a conducive learning environment for future healthcare professionals. Echono recalled the Federal Government’s 2021 initiative to establish six specialized federal medical training institutions across the country’s geopolitical zones, arising from the need to strengthen medical research capacity in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Echono also revealed that TETFund’s board had proposed contracts for eight medical simulation centers nationwide to the Federal Executive Council, with FUHSA among the beneficiary institutions. The projects are scheduled to commence in 2026, with equipment installation planned for 2027.
Prof. Bala Audu, Vice-Chancellor of FUHSA, highlighted the university’s reliance on TETFund for infrastructure and equipment, noting that additional interventions are necessary to develop the Faculties of Basic Medical Sciences and Clinical Sciences. This expansion is crucial to address the country’s healthcare workforce shortage and align with the Federal Government’s policy to enhance the training capacity for health professionals.
Prof. Samuel Adejare, Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, acknowledged the university’s significant progress and its role in graduating students from specialized federal universities. He appealed for further support to improve student accommodation, which is essential in addressing the university’s infrastructure needs.