The federal government has disclosed that the recently created Federal University of Applied Sciences located in Kachia, Kaduna State, will begin its operations with a full budgetary allocation instead of depending on an initial takeoff grant.
Despite this announcement, the institution revealed plans to convert General Hospital Kafanchan into a Federal Medical Centre, which will function as a teaching hospital for the university.
On Friday, Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, made this announcement during the inauguration of the Governing Council and principal officers for the Federal University of Applied Sciences in Kachia, Kaduna State.
The Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Matthew Kukah, was officially installed as the institution’s Pro-Chancellor and appointed as the chairman of the governing council.
The entity previously called Nok University has been retitled the Federal University of Applied Sciences following the takeover of its assets by the Federal Government.
Alausa motivated the recently appointed officials to utilize their collective knowledge to reshape the university into a leading institution recognized for outstanding academics and groundbreaking research, aligning with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
He similarly encouraged Bishop Kukah and others to offer visionary guidance and establish a strong base for the organization’s expansion as it gets ready to start accepting its inaugural group of students in September 2025.
You won't be initiating this project with a take-off grant. The President, the Vice-President, along with everyone else who has contributed behind the scenes, have made sure that you will receive funding as part of the 2025 budget. This includes a substantial personnel budget, ample operational expenses, and a well-funded capital budget.
So unlike other universities that provide approval and startup grants, you have neither their endorsement nor financial assistance. Instead, you're taking the lead, and you hold a special advantage.
As he encouraged the Vice-Chancellor and key officials to strive towards achieving the university’s objectives, the Minister highlighted how the president’s proactive approach in setting up the institution fosters progress in Southern Kaduna and advocates for equity and justice nationwide.
He highlighted that the establishment of the university was an integral part of wider educational reforms. These initiatives encompass enhanced emphasis on technical and vocational training, as well as STEM education. Additionally, they aim at decreasing the number of children who do not attend school and fostering female education.
On behalf of the other appointees, Bishop Kukah stated that the creation of this institution has resolved approximately 60 percent of Southern Kaduna's issues.
Attributing the realization of the institution to divine intervention, the cleric expressed optimism that Nigeria would surmount its difficulties.
He stated: "Nigeria undoubtedly has its issues and will keep having them, however let me assure you, Honorable Minister, that we have successfully resolved 60 percent of the challenges faced in Southern Kaduna."
We won’t look back, as God wouldn't have given us just one eye on the front if He intended for us to gaze backward. Nonetheless, we harbor zero resentment. Regardless of all challenges, we remain among the most well-educated sections within the entirety of Northern Nigeria.
Currently, Southern Kaduna boasts more than 200 professors. The education we've received, which has taken us this far and allowed individuals such as myself to benefit, stems from the educational efforts initiated by missionaries. However, I wish to reassure you that with the establishment of this University of Applied Sciences, you have provided us with valuable resources. I guarantee that we will endeavor to make full use of these opportunities. Please do not lose hope, Mr. President.
The Chief of Defense Staff, General Christopher Musa, who attended the event, also spoke and promised that the Nigerian military would offer strong security measures for the university, guaranteeing a secure atmosphere for both students and faculty members.
Musa was optimistic that the university would emerge as an exemplar of quality education, encouraging solidarity and instilling a strong feeling of patriotism amongst Nigerians in the area.
Provided by Syndigate Media Inc. ( Syndigate.info ).
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