EFFECT OF TETFUND INTERVENTION ON RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT IN NIGERIAN TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS

Abstract

This study examines the effect of TETFUND interventions on research and development (R&D) in Nigerian tertiary institutions, focusing on research grant allocations, academic staff participation in TETFUND-funded training, and the availability of research infrastructure. Using a sample of 160 academic staff across universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education, data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation, and multiple linear regression. The results reveal that research grant allocation and infrastructure availability have significant positive effects on research output, while participation in TETFUND-funded training does not significantly influence research productivity. The study recommends that TETFUND and institutional administrators should ensure that research grant application processes are transparent, timely, and inclusive to allow broader participation among academic staff. The findings support prior studies emphasizing the role of funding and infrastructure in enhancing research capacity, while highlighting the need for redesigning training programs to yield measurable outcomes. The study provides evidence-based recommendations for policy and institutional practice, contributing to the optimization of research interventions in Nigerian higher education.