Can my dependent file taxes and take a deduction for college tuition payments made by his parent on his behalf? He doesn't get financial aid & makes only a little money from working on campus. I (the parent) do not qualify to take the tuition as a deduction on my tax filing.

The tax-filer who claims the exemption of the student, claims 1098-T tuition and fee deduction or education credit.
That is the dependent student can not claim 1098-T deduction or credit. Only the parents of dependent student can claim it.