In a decisive move to uphold fairness and transparency in the leadership selection of federal tertiary institutions, the Federal Ministry of Education has introduced a new policy guiding the eligibility of candidates for top academic roles.

The Minister of Education, Dr. Olatunji Alausa, approved the policy as part of the Ministry’s broader commitment to equity and integrity in appointing Vice Chancellors, Rectors, and Provosts across the country’s higher education institutions.

According to a statement issued by Mrs. Folasade Boriowo, Director of Press and Public Relations, the policy was prompted by repeated cases where individuals serving in acting capacities allegedly exploited their temporary roles to secure permanent appointments. This, the Ministry noted, has distorted the fairness of the selection process over the years.

Under the new directive, individuals currently serving as acting Vice Chancellors, Rectors, or Provosts will be barred from applying for the substantive positions while still holding their acting appointments. However, such individuals may choose to step down from their acting roles before the end of their six-month, non-renewable tenure to become eligible for the full-time positions.

The Ministry has called on Governing Councils, school managements, and all stakeholders to strictly adhere to the policy in future appointment exercises.