Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s decision to extend the retirement age of associate professors in Delta State-owned universities from 65 to 70 years was driven by a need to strengthen the academic system.
The Commissioner for Higher Education, Professor Nyerhovwo Tonukari, who disclosed this during an interview, said the approval was a strategic move to align with federal policy and support the evolving needs of the state’s university system.
The commissioner highlighted significant expansion projects in institutions like Southern Delta University, Ozoro; Dennis Osadebay University, Asaba; University of Delta, Agbor; and the newly established campus of the Southern Delta University, Orerokpe, saying these campuses have nearly doubled in size and capacity.
Tonukari also emphasized the importance of the extended retirement age in fostering strong postgraduate programs, as more experienced academic staff are needed to mentor junior lecturers and lay the foundation for robust research and academic excellence.
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