This article addresses one of the critical questions usually asked by the Nigerian Youth Corps members: “Does TETFund Accept Corpers?” As you read through, we also looked at the duties and core mission of TETFund while also shedding light on how much they pay Corpers. This information is valuable for prospective Corps members interested in serving with TETFund.
The curiosity surrounding TETFund’s acceptance of Corps members, particularly in Abuja, is palpable. Many Corps members eagerly seek opportunities to complete their Place of Primary Assignment (PPA) within this organization. Given that, after their orientation camp, Corps members are assigned to various public or private entities for their one-year service program, this article aims to provide clarity on whether TETFund does accept Corps members.
Before delving into the specifics, it’s crucial to understand TETFund’s role and history, as stated in the beginning part of this introduction. So, before we proceed, let’s briefly look at what it’s all about.
Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund)
TETFund, short for Tertiary Education Trust Fund, is a government initiative in Nigeria formed under the Education Tax Act of 1993. This agency plays a vital role in supporting public tertiary institutions at all levels across the country. Its primary mission is to provide additional financial backing and oversee project management for the improvement, rejuvenation, and strengthening of tertiary education in Nigeria. TETFund’s establishment marked a significant step towards enhancing the quality and accessibility of education at the tertiary level, contributing to the nation’s educational advancement.
History
The history of TETFund is rooted in the need to address the dire state of education in Nigeria, particularly in government-owned tertiary institutions. Prior to their establishment in 1993 under the Education Tax Act, these institutions faced severe underfunding, resulting in deteriorating facilities and demoralizing teaching staff.
The turning point came in the 1980s, when the decay in all tiers of education became glaring. President Ibrahim Babangida’s administration recognized the urgency of the situation and took measures to combat this decline. In 1990, the Federal Government formed the Commission on the Review of Higher Education in Nigeria, known as the Gray Longe Commission, which recommended funding higher education through earmarked taxes imposed on companies operating in Nigeria.
The implementation committee, led by Professor Olu O. Akinkugbe, was tasked with carrying out the Gray Longe Commission’s recommendations. An important agreement was signed between the Federal Government and ASUU in 1992, highlighting the need for university funding. Subsequently, in January 1993, the Education Tax Act No. 7 of 1993 was enacted. This Act imposed a 2% tax on the assessable profits of all companies in Nigeria, marking a significant effort to address issues such as infrastructure decay, educational quality restoration, and teacher development.
However, as time passed, it became evident that the Education Tax Fund (ETF) was overstretched and unable to provide comprehensive support to all levels of public education. Additionally, there were challenges related to the duplication of functions with other agencies like Universal Basic Education (UBE) and Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). These issues led to the reformation of the fund, resulting in the establishment of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund Act in May 2011. This change aimed to address the shortcomings of the ETF and continue the mission of revitalizing education in Nigeria.
Function
The TETFund board is entrusted with several crucial responsibilities, as outlined in the governing act. These functions include:
- Monitoring and Tax Collection: The board oversees the collection of tax by the Federal Inland Revenue Services (FIRS) and ensures that these funds are transferred to the TETFund.
- Tax Management and Disbursement: TETFund manages and disburses the tax funds efficiently and effectively, directing them toward the enhancement of tertiary education in Nigeria.
- Collaboration with Relevant Bodies: The board collaborates with relevant government ministries and organizations responsible for the collection and safekeeping of the education tax.
- Project Approval: It receives project requests and approves projects deemed acceptable after careful consideration, ensuring that they align with TETFund’s objectives.
- Allocation to Institutions: TETFund allocates funds to various public tertiary education institutions across Nigeria, supporting their development and growth.
- Project Monitoring and Evaluation: The board continuously monitors and evaluates the progress of projects to ensure they meet their intended goals and deliver maximum benefit.
- Financial Investments: TETFund responsibly invests its funds in suitable and secure financial instruments to generate returns while safeguarding the capital.
- Reporting to Government: The board provides updates to the Federal Government through annual audited reports, ensuring transparency and accountability.
- Review and Improvement: It regularly reviews its progress and operations, making suggestions for improvements within the framework of the governing Act.
- Adherence to Objectives: The board carries out any necessary tasks that align with the Fund’s objectives as defined in the Acts or as directed by the Federal Government.
- Guidelines for Beneficiaries: TETFund issues guidelines to all beneficiaries regarding the disbursement and utilization of funds received from the Fund, ensuring responsible and effective use.
- Regulation of Fund Use: In general, the board regulates the administration, application, and disbursement of funds from TETFund under the provisions of the Act, maintaining adherence to its core mission of advancing tertiary education in Nigeria.
Does TETFund Accept Corpers?
Yes, TETFund accepts Corps members who are assigned to its establishment. It’s a government organization, and NYSC regularly posts its Corps members to do their PPA (Place of Primary Assignment) at TETFund.
However, it’s important to note that not all Corps members posted to the organization are accepted. It’s reported that the number of Corps members posted to TETFund is usually more than its capacity can accommodate. Therefore, as a Corps member, there’s a possibility that you could be rejected, and you may need to change your PPA.
How Much Does TETFUND Pay Corpers?
TETFund pays Corps members who are serving in its organization a monthly stipend of N20,000, as reported by various reliable sources. Additionally, Corps members at TETFund in Abuja receive this same monthly stipend of N20,000. It’s important to note that this payment is separate from the federal government’s monthly allowance of N33,000, which is given to all Corps members, regardless of their place of service.
Offices
TETFund has established several regional offices across Nigeria to efficiently carry out its mission. These offices are strategically located to oversee and coordinate activities in their respective zones. Here are the key regional offices:
- South South Zonal Office is situated at No 11 Amassoma Street, Amadi Flat Old GRA, Port Harcourt, focusing on TETFund’s initiatives in the South South region.
- South East Zonal Office operates from 1A and 1B Azubuike Obiekwe Close, Liberty Estate Phase 1, Independence Layout Enugu, managing TETFund projects in the South East.
- South West Zonal Office is located at No 31 Ladoke Akintola Street Ikeja G.R.A, Lagos, overseeing TETFund activities in the South West.
- North West Zonal Office is based at Kaduna State Secretariat, No 19 Independence Way, Kaduna, responsible for the North West region.
- North East Zonal Office is found at No 4 Jamtari Road, along old Maiduguri Road, Bauchi, focusing on TETFund initiatives in the North East.
- North Central Zonal Office operates from Shugaba Bage Street, Millionaires Quarters Lafia, Nassarawa State, managing TETFund projects in the North Central region.
Additionally, TETFund’s Headquarters is located at No 6 Zambezi Crescent, Off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja, FCT Nigeria. This central hub plays a pivotal role in coordinating and overseeing the overall activities and mission of TETFund nationwide.