By Olugbenga Oyeniran
Harvard University has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, accusing it of trying to interfere in the school’s academic independence. The dispute arose after federal officials threatened to review about $9 billion in funding, including a freeze on $2.2 billion in grants, because Harvard declined demands such as appointing an outside monitor to oversee “viewpoint diversity” on campus.
The university argues that such pressure threatens its core academic freedoms. This legal battle is the latest in a broader clash between the U.S. government and elite universities, following months of student-led protests over the Gaza conflict. While the Trump administration has portrayed these demonstrations as anti-American and described universities as overly liberal and antisemitic, Harvard’s president, Alan Garber, rejected those claims and defended the institution’s commitment to open inquiry and free thought.
In all of the unfolding drama, one fact has become glaring: the university had the resources to stand its ground. With a staggering $53 billion endowment, Harvard is wealthier than the GDP of over 100 countries, and richer than the foreign reserves of nearly every African country—except Libya, Algeria, and South Africa.
It’s a financial reality that forces a tough but necessary question: What can African and Nigerian
universities (and governments) learn from Harvard’s model of educational independence?
What Is an Endowment—and Why Does It Matter?
An endowment is a financial gift or pool of donations given to a university or institution. Rather
than spend it all at once, the institution invests the money, using only the returns (or a portion of
them) each year to support its goals—scholarships, salaries, research, infrastructure, and more.
Think of it like planting a money tree: the tree (the principal fund) is left to grow, while the fruit (investment income) is harvested annually. This model offers long-term stability and protects educational vision from the unpredictability of yearly funding.
Why Is Harvard So Rich?
Harvard’s wealth isn’t accidental—it’s the result of nearly 400 years of building a culture of giving, excellence, and smart financial strategy.
Private and Non-profit: Harvard is a private university. It isn’t owned by the government but receives federal research funding and financial aid support.
Strong Alumni Giving: With graduates leading Fortune 500 companies, NGOs, research
centres, and governments, Harvard enjoys massive donations from those who want to give back
to the institution that shaped them. In 2023, the school received over $1.5 billion in gifts and
pledges.
Expert Investments: Harvard employs a world-class investment firm—the Harvard Management Company—that manages its endowment like a hedge fund, growing the money through real estate, private equity, stocks, and more.
Global Brand Power: Harvard’s name alone attracts donations, partnerships, and endowments
from across the world.
“Harvard is not just a university; it’s a symbol of excellence. Supporting Harvard means investing in the future of ideas.”
— Anonymous Donor, Harvard Campaign for Arts & Sciences
What Can African Universities—and Governments—Learn?
The disparity between Harvard’s endowment and African universities’ funding is not just financial; it’s structural and philosophical. Here are four key lessons that African and Nigerian institutions can apply:
- Shift from Dependency to Sustainability
Too many universities on the continent are over-dependent on government subventions, which
are often delayed, inconsistent, or inadequate. Building endowments and development funds
must become a strategic priority. Encourage high-net-worth individuals, alumni, and the private sector to invest in education. Establish internal investment arms that grow these funds over time.
- Nurture and Mobilize Alumni Networks
Graduates are the most powerful asset of any institution. Unfortunately, many African
universities lose touch with alumni after graduation. Build robust alumni relations offices with clear strategies for engagement. Tell success stories and create a culture of giving back—not as charity, but as a legacy.
- Create Enabling Government Policy
Governments must play a new role—not just as funders, but as facilitators of growth:
Offer tax incentives for individuals and corporations that donate to educational institutions. Fund research through competitive grants, and support public-private partnerships. Protect academic independence to encourage innovation and global collaboration.
- Invest in Excellence, Not Just Access
Harvard’s appeal is rooted in its pursuit of excellence—in teaching, research, leadership, and
innovation. While access is essential, Africa must also champion quality education that can compete globally.
✍🏾Invest in libraries, laboratories, digital infrastructure, and staff development.
✍🏾Promote academic freedom and innovation as pillars of national progress.
Final Thoughts
Harvard’s endowment is not just about wealth—it’s about vision, foresight, and commitment to
education as a lifelong investment. If African and Nigerian universities are to thrive, they must look beyond government coffers and begin planting their own money trees—cultivating alumni, attracting partnerships, and building legacies.
The road to transformation is long, but the seeds must be planted today.
