Category: Education

By Isreal Adamu, Jos

The Vice Chancellor of Plateau State University (PLASU) Bokkos, Prof. Shedrack Best, has stated that the law and structure that established the university designate the 17 local governments of Plateau State as co-owners.

Prof. Best explained that this co-ownership arrangement was the basis for the funding structure from the university’s inception, with the 17 local governments required to jointly fund the university’s activities alongside the state government.

He made this disclosure during a courtesy visit to the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Euphriam Usman, in his office.

Prof. Best noted that while this arrangement continued for a while, financial distress eventually led to a rearrangement of the funding formula for the local governments in the state.

The Vice Chancellor also highlighted the many areas of potential collaboration between the university and the ministry, particularly in the training of staff across the 17 local governments, including executive cadres. He emphasized that PLASU has the resources to support such initiatives.

“We also hope you will look into other possible ways to support the university. Currently, we face challenges in several areas. We rely on boreholes for our water supply, which is grossly inadequate,” he said.

He also pointed out that most of the university’s staff live off-campus due to a lack of developed staff housing, which was not part of the university’s original development plan.

“The university is situated in an area with significant security challenges. While we have been fortunate not to experience direct attacks on campus, the lack of on-campus student housing has exposed over 95% of students who live off-campus to risks such as kidnappings and other criminal activities,” Prof. Best added.

He stressed that security remains a top priority for the university and appealed for intervention in this regard. He further noted that many staff members commute daily from Jos and Bokkos, which is both costly and challenging.

The Vice Chancellor revealed that the university management had approached the Ministry for assistance with transportation to ease staff and student movement, expressing hope for a favorable response.

“We also appealed to the Governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, through you, to extend the improved transportation services seen within Jos and its environs to areas like Barkin Ladi and Bokkos. This will significantly alleviate the transportation costs for our staff, especially with rising petroleum prices,” Prof. Best stated.

He thanked the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs for his efforts and reaffirmed the crucial role of the ministry and the 17 local governments in the university’s operations. He highlighted that the local governments have representation on the university’s governing council, ensuring their involvement in its decision-making processes and aligning them with the state’s governor, another co-owner of the university.

In their responses, Hon. Ephraim Usman, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, and Hon. Kemi Nshe, the Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) Plateau State Chapter and Chairman of Shendam Local Government Area, commended the Vice Chancellor for articulating the university’s position effectively.

They acknowledged the challenges raised, including the issues with sports facilities, water supply, hostels, solar energy, and other needs, and emphasized that they would discuss these concerns with the local government chairmen to explore potential solutions.

“We have been waiting for this opportunity because, admittedly, the remittances to the university have been inadequate. However, we understand the enormous burden on the local government chairmen, which is why we strive to provide what we can each month,” they stated.

They also expressed their intention to explore ways to go beyond regular monthly remittances by seeking additional support, including reaching out to prominent politicians, philanthropists, and other influential individuals to invest in the university.

By Jabiru Hassan, Kano

The Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau I. Jibrin, has announced plans to sponsor 400 students from Kano North for undergraduate studies at the Federal University Dutsin-ma (FUDMA) centers in Kano State.

This initiative, valued at ₦140 million, aims to cover the students’ educational expenses for four years. The program primarily targets underprivileged students who lack the financial means to pay for registration fees, offering them an opportunity to pursue higher education.

Senator Barau emphasized that the sponsorship seeks to empower these students, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to the socio-economic development of Kano North. By increasing the number of educated individuals in the district, the initiative aspires to foster regional growth and development.

The Senator’s commitment to education is well-documented. In the past, he sponsored 70 students for foreign studies and has pledged to continue supporting qualified candidates for higher education.

The FUDMA centers in Kano State are expected to play a pivotal role in providing quality education and resources to the sponsored students. The establishment of these centers underscores Senator Barau’s dedication to improving access to education in his constituency.

This sponsorship is a testament to Senator Barau’s vision of empowering the youth. Through this investment in education, he is laying the groundwork for a brighter future for Kano North.

The initiative was highlighted in a statement issued by his aide, Hon. Saifullahi Haladu, who commended the Senator for his unwavering dedication to youth development and education.

By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja

The President and Chairman-in-Council of the Chartered Institute of Professional Printers of Nigeria (CIPPON), Clement Koko, has called for the establishment of the Office of the Printer General of the Federation to enhance the status and efficiency of the printing profession in Nigeria.

Koko made this appeal on Wednesday during an assessment visit to the newly established Department of Printing Technology at the Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja. Accompanied by his team, the visit aimed to facilitate the department’s accreditation by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE).

Advocating for a more prominent role for the printing profession in governance, Koko emphasized the importance of creating an Office of the Printer General and a Printing Commission. He compared this to similar roles in other professions, such as the Accountant General and Auditor General, which have long been recognized in government structures.

“Printing, the mother of all professions, has been relegated to the background,” Koko said. “It has evolved beyond paperwork and now serves as a key driver of wealth creation. Its importance in documentation and office operations cannot be overstated.”

He further lauded the new Printing Technology Department at Kogi Polytechnic, describing it as a self-sustaining initiative with significant income-generating potential. Koko urged the institution’s management to nurture the department and encouraged students and staff to work towards becoming Chartered Printers to fully integrate into the professional system.

Institution’s Commitment

During the visit, the Deputy Rector of Kogi State Polytechnic, Dr. Samuel Olowo, assured the team of the institution’s commitment to achieving full accreditation for the program.

“Kogi Polytechnic is excited about the establishment of the Department of Printing Technology,” Olowo said. “We are collaborating with the State Government to ensure NBTE grants full accreditation for the program. The department is a significant milestone, being the only Printing Technology department in any tertiary institution across the North-Central zone.”

Dr. Olowo acknowledged the support of Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, who provided the Government Printing Press for the institution’s use, and commended Rector Professor Usman Ogbo for his leadership in establishing the department.

He thanked the Chartered Institute of Printers for its partnership and support in advancing the accreditation process and pledged the institution’s dedication to the growth and success of the program.

Yakubu Gowon University (YGU), formerly known as Federal University, Lafia, is a federal government-owned institution located in Lafia, Nasarawa State, Nigeria. The university was renamed in honor of General Yakubu Gowon, a former Head of State of Nigeria, recognizing his contributions to national development.

Key Highlights:

• Location: Lafia, Nasarawa State, Nigeria.
• Established: February 2011.
• Ownership: Federal Government of Nigeria.
• Renaming: In 2023, the university was renamed Yakubu Gowon University by the Nigerian government to celebrate the legacy of General Yakubu Gowon.

Academic Structure:

Yakubu Gowon University offers a variety of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across multiple disciplines, including:

• Sciences
• Humanities
• Social Sciences
• Agriculture
• Management

Vision and Mission:

The university is committed to providing quality education, fostering innovation, and producing graduates capable of driving societal progress. It emphasizes research, community service, and the development of human capital.

Facilities and Services:

• Well-equipped laboratories and libraries.
• Hostels for students.
• Research centers.
• Recreational and sporting facilities.

Would you like information on specific programs, admission requirements, or recent developments at Yakubu Gowon University?

By Muhammad Ibrahim, Sokoto

Newly appointed Vice Chancellor of Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto Professor Bashir Garba has reiterated his commitment to giving Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto a new face and an unassailable standing as he made his first major remarks after assuming office as Vice Chancellor in September 2024.

He was speaking while receiving the members of staff of the Mass Communication department of the University on a courtesy visit to him at his office.

Dr Danladi Bako OON Kogunan Sokoto
Member of staff Mass Communication department Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto who made this available to our correspondent said the delegation which included former Director General of the National Broadcasting Commission Dr Danladi Bako, senior lecturer visiting and other staff of the department was led by Head of Department Dr Abubakar Musa Mijinyawa expressed their confidence in the capacity of the new Vice Chancellor to upscale the fortunes of the University as well as the department of Mass Communication .

Dr Mijinyawa seized the opportunity of the visit to congratulate and brief the Vice Chancellor on the accreditation of the Mass Communication courses of the University by the National Universities Commission as well as the establishment of the Usmanu Danfodiyo University Campus Radio for training of the students of the department among other unenviable successes.

Responding the Vice Chancellor congratulated the staff of the department on the achievements so far especially the recent successful graduation of its first set of Bachelor of Science Mass Communication graduates.

Prof Bashir Garba acknowledged the tremendous efforts of his predecessors former Vice Chancellors Professor Risqua Arabu Shehu and Professor Lawal Bilbis and prayed Allah to reward them.

The new Vice Chancellor promised to put in his very best to elevate the University to even greater heights , also appealing for the unconditional support of staff , students as well as the local community.
It will be recalled that Professor Bashir Garba was the Rector of Sokoto State Polytechnic, Vice Chancellor Sokoto State University Sokoto, Secretary to Sokoto State Government and now Vice Chancellor Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto.

He hails from Sokoto South Local Government of Sokoto State.

By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna

Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, has approved over seven hundred and thirty million naira (N730,000,000) for scholarships to support Borno indigenes studying in various institutions across the country.

The Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation, Engr. Lawan Abba Wakilbe, officially handed over the cheque on behalf of Governor Zulum to the Borno State Scholarship Board during a ceremony held at the Quality Assurance office of the Ministry on Monday.

In a statement by the Governor’s Senior Special Assistant on New Media, Abdurrahman Bundi, Engr. Wakilbe explained that the scholarship program, once fully implemented, is expected to benefit 26,888 indigenous undergraduates, with payments set to commence immediately.

The commissioner further disclosed that Zulum’s administration has spent over N8 billion on scholarships in 2024 alone, supporting students both within Nigeria and abroad.

Wakilbe also provided a breakdown of the scholarship allocations, urging the students to work diligently to justify the government’s substantial investment in their education. He encouraged students to ensure the accuracy of their bank details to avoid transaction issues, warning that any failed payments would be reallocated for other purposes.

Additionally, the commissioner urged students to explore opportunities through NELFUND, challenging student leaders to make full use of the available resources.

Abdullahi Ahmadu Umara, the National President of the National Union of Borno State Students (NUBOSS), expressed gratitude to Governor Zulum for his steadfast commitment to education.

On the sidelines of the event, one of the students, Abba Ali Abba Gana, announced plans to honor the Governor with the title of “Student-Friendly Governor” and the Commissioner as the “Architect of Modern Education” in recognition of their dedication to advancing education in Borno State.

By Anne Azuka

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State on Tuesday expressed optimism that the 2nd Higher Education Summit would provide the platform to reinvent and reinvigorate the funding landscape for tertiary institutions in Delta State.

Governor Oborevwori stated this while declaring open the 2nd Higher Education Summit at Asaba, the Delta state capital.

The governor who was represented by his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme noted that the theme of the Summit, “Alternative Funding For Tertiary Institutions” is most apt, adding that it will help to share ideas, explore innovative solutions and foster a spirit of collaboration among educators, policy-makers, and students.

Governor Oborevwori noted that, government aim is to reinvent and reinvigorate the funding landscape for tertiary institutions in the State.

He added that the challenges facing higher education were not peculiar to governance, saying that government response can be distinctively innovative and transformative.

According to him; As we look around this lecture theatre, we see a diverse tapestry of individuals who represent the future of our society.

“From distinguished scholars to motivated students and dedicated educators, each of you play a crucial role in shaping the landscape of Higher Education.

“Together, we stand on the threshold of change, with an opportunity to redefine our approach to learning and development.”

Governor Oborevwori noted that his administration has witnessed remarkable strides in addressing the challenges faced by higher Institutions in the state and have fostered renewed commitment to accessibility, equity and quality in education.

“You are all witnesses to the giant stride development in the history of our tertiary institutions in the State. (Four universities, three polytechnics, two colleges of education) yet there is still much work to be done.

“Our tertiary institutions are not just centres of learning, but engines of social mobility, economic development and human capital transformation. Yet, we cannot ignore the increasing financial challenges confronting these critical institutions.

“The idea for this summit is therefore not just apt, but timely as it reflects our commitment to innovative solutions.”

“As a state, we recognize that sustainable education funding requires a multi-faceted approach that goes beyond conventional government allocations.

“Our State’s unique economic landscape demands a revolutionary approach to educational funding and with our robust industrial sectors ranging from petrochemicals, agriculture, and emerging technology, we have unprecedented opportunities to create innovative educational financing models,” Governor Oborevwori stated.

The governor who observed that, the world is evolving at an unprecedented pace with technological advancements reshaping industries, while global challenges such as climate change, social inequality and health crises require innovative solutions, noted that, it is imperative the state higher education system is not only responsive to these changes, but also anticipatory and equipping students with the skills, knowledge and critical thinking necessary to thrive in an ever-changing world.

Governor Oborevwori urged stakeholders at the summit to engage in meaningful dialogue about the future of higher education.

“Let us explore how we can all collectively fund higher education, enhance our curricular to reflect the demand of the modern workforce. How can we bridge the gap between academia and industry to ensure that our graduates are not only job — ready but also equipped to lead in their fields.

“We need to foster partnership with local businesses, non—profit organizations and government agencies to create pathways for experiential learning and internships.

“Equally important is our commitment to diversity and inclusion; our institutions must reflect the rich diversity of our population, ensuring that every student has equitable opportunity to succeed.

“It is our responsibility to create a culture where every voice is heard and every perspective is valued. Only then can we cultivate a truly enriching educational experience,” Governor Oborevwori stated.

Earlier in a welcome address, the Commissioner for Higher Education, Prof. Nyerhovwo Tonukari, said traditional funding models provided by the government are increasingly insufficient to meet the growing demands for quality education and research.

Prof. Tonukari noted that the state government has been exceptionally generous in supporting its nine tertiary institutions.

He said that the government funds the salaries of all academic and non-academic staff.

According to him; Our state was among the first states to implement the 25/35% salary review for tertiary institution staff, including several months’ arrears. Delta State also led the way in paying the new minimum wage, which we all are currently enjoying. The government also provides bursaries to over 30,000 students annually.

“Today I will like to inform you that the capital budget for the Ministry of Higher Education is 32 billion naira. By the end of the 2024/2025 admission period, approximately 25,000 candidates will have been admitted to study various courses in the nine state -owned tertiary institutions.

Prof. Tonukari urged management and deans of higher Institutions to do more to enhance education in Delta State.

“You must adopt innovative strategies to secure additional funding to expand and improve your institution. However, we expect these initiatives to be financed through your Internally Generated Revenue (IGR)”, he stated.

The Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) has trained 137 Education Secretaries of Local Government Universal Basic Education Authorities in the South-west region, noting that the strength and development of the country’s educational system, rests on the quality of primary education.

Speaking during the training session, the Commission’s Executive Secretary, Dr. Hamid Bobboyi said roles of the secretaries in basic education implementation are too crucial to be taken for granted.

The Commission trained education secretaries within the South-west region, on the 2023/2024 Teacher Professional Development (TPD) programme in Ibadan between November 18-22, 2024.

Represented by UBEC’s zonal assistant director, Mr. Olusegun Akere, he said the role of education secretaries in basic education implementation is too crucial to be taken for granted, hence the need for them to pay adequate attention to training.

Bobboyi assured them of the commission’s continued support in improving their knowledge and skills in educational management.

He noted that they are the administrative and professional Heads of the Local Government Education Authorities and are primarily expected to ensure that the primary schools in their domains are run efficiently.

His words, “They are to ensure that whatever is required for schools under them to perform effectively are provided. With these responsibilities on their shoulders, they deserve to get the professional support they need from the State Universal Basic Education Boards and the Universal Basic Education Commission, among others.”

“Training them as regularly as possible assures that basic education delivery will perform above average in terms of learner performance. Apart from the supervisory and other administrative functions they perform, they also provide professional leadership to Headteachers and teachers, as support officers, mentors, and coaches,” he said.

The Executive Chairman, Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board, Dr. Nureni Adeniran said in a goodwill message that the training is aimed at enhancing the capacities of education secretaries as education managers at the grassroots, in line with the UBE operational guideline towards effective implementation of the 2023/2024 Teacher Professional Development (TPD) programme.

He assured Education Secretaries in the state of the continued support of the board, especially in training that will improve their knowledge and skills in educational management.

Adeniran stressed that Education Secretaries are the closest to the schools, who are the end receivers of the services of the Commission and the Board.

“The role of Education Secretaries in ensuring effective implementation of the UBE programme can not be underestimated,” he said.

The Director, Teacher Development, UBEC, Mr. Aleshin Mayowa noted that the training underscores the importance the Commission places on the relevance of the Education Secretaries in the implementation of the UBE programme.

Media Team, 

Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board,

Agodi, Ibadan.

November 25, 2024.