By Dauda R Pam
GOVERNOR Babagana Umara Zulum, of Borno state, may have been concluded plans to establish a Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovations, to enhance research capable of sustainable socio-economic development of the state.
He disclosed this while playing host to the management staff of the University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) on a Sallah visit to government house, Maiduguri.
According to him, the ministry would soon commence operation to support and provide grants to researchers who are unable to carry out studies due to insufficient funds and that one of the commissioner designate would be assigned to head the new ministry.
“As an academic, I am very aware of the value of research, the ministry will be saddled with the responsibilities to conduct research and provide grants to university dons.
“Those, who are willing to contribute their quota to the development of the society but they do not have the financial wherewithal to do so.
“One of our adversaries is the gap between the industry and the education sector; weak linkage between our education system and industry, weak linkage between our graduates and the labour market.
“This can only be abridged by providing relevant and enabling technological environment including good laboratories and workshop to train our students,” Zulum said.
He hinted that the state government would equally establish faculties of science and environment at the Borno State University, adding that the institution is expected to commence operation in September, this year in collaboration with UNIMAID to facilitate its smooth take off.
Prof. Mohammad Alkali, the Acting Vice-Chancellor of UNIMAID, had earlier in an address, commended Zulum over his support to the university and expressed gratitude to the state government for constructing 20 housing units as well as addressing its water needs and road projects.
It would be recalled,that, Babagana Umara Zulum, is an astute professor of Irrigation Engineering, former lecturer at the university as well as the Rector of the Ramat Polytechnic, Maiduguri and the first and immediate past Commissioner for Rehabilitation, Reconstruction and Resettlement (RRR), a position he held until elected governor, under the platform of APC.
