SENATE APPROVES POLICY TO CURB MISUSE OF HONORARY DEGREES
By: Safiya Abdulrahim Dabban
The Federal Government has approved a new policy to tackle the growing misuse of honorary degrees by tertiary institutions. Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, said the decision was reached at a Federal Executive Council meeting chaired by President Bola Tinubu, amid concerns over the increasing politicisation and abuse of such awards.
Alausa explained that the new framework introduces stricter rules, including a requirement that only universities offering PhD programmes can confer honorary doctorates. He added that all institutions must now obtain clearance from the National Universities Commission before granting any honorary degree, with recipients to be properly vetted.
He warned that individuals who falsely claim honorary titles risk prosecution, stressing that the reforms are aimed at restoring credibility and discipline in the education system. The policy, which took effect in April, signals a renewed push by the government to strengthen standards and accountability in higher education.