By Abdul Aji
The National Universities Commission (NUC), has issued a provisional license to Benue State Governor, Reverend Father Hyacinth Alia, to establish the State University of Agriculture, Science, and Technology.
The University, located in Ihugh, Vandeikya Local Government Area, will empower youths, develop the workforce, and promote knowledge-driven development in the state.
NUC Executive Secretary, Abdullahi Ribadu, presented the Recognition Letter and Provisional License to Benue State Deputy Governor, Samuel Ode, in Abuja who represented Governor Alia.
Ribadu commended Governor Alia’s visionary leadership and dedication to expanding higher education opportunities in the state.
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The Executive Secretary, tasked the state government to adhere to guidelines for quality assurance, curriculum development, and academic program management.
He emphasised the importance of collaboration among stakeholders to ensure the university’s success and uphold high standards of academic integrity, research excellence, and good governance.
Governor Alia assured that the state would provide necessary amenities and platforms to drive the university’s agenda, with the goal of streamlining course profiles to address agricultural production challenges.
He promised that the first admission intake would be taken this academic session.
“The State government has played a significant role in expanding access to higher education through policies, infrastructure development, funding, and now establishing a second state-run university, which further underscores the government’s commitment to expanding higher education opportunities for the citizens of the state.
“Your Excellency, I must commend your visionary leadership and unwavering dedication to the establishment and to the educational value of the people of Benue State.
“The establishment of the State University of Agriculture, Science, and Technology is another bold and strategic move that will undoubtedly empower the youths, develop the workforce, and promote knowledge-driven development in the state.
“As we celebrate this achievement, I have called state authorities, government officials, university administrators, faculty members, and students to work collaboratively to ensure that the institution thrives and upholds the highest standard of academic integrity, research excellence, and good governance.
“It is our collective responsibility to ensure that this university does not only add a number of institutions to the country, but stands out as a beacon of learning, character development, and societal transformation.
“The National Universities Commission will continue to provide the necessary guidance and support to ensure that the Benue State University of Agriculture, Science, and Technology attains its full potential.
“We expect that it will adhere strictly to the guidelines set forth for quality assurance, curriculum development, and overall management of academic developments.
“Once again, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the State government, the good people of the state, and all those who have contributed to making this vision a reality.
“I have no doubt that this university will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of education, especially agriculture, the development of this country” he narrated.
Recall that the establishment of the State University of Agriculture, Science, and Technology, brings the number of state-owned universities in Nigeria to 68, and the total number of universities in the country to 299.
The Benue State Governor, Reverend Father Hyacinth Alia in his speech , represented by the Deputy Governor, expressed gratitude to the National Universities Commission (NUC) for approving the State University of Agriculture, Science, and Technology.
The Governor emphasised that the university’s purpose is to address agricultural production challenges through science, technology, and innovation.
He assured that the state would provide necessary amenities and platforms to drive the university’s agenda and promised that the first admission intake would be taken this academic session.
The Governor noted that the university has already commenced operations and would undergo an inspection by NUC to assess its level of preparation.
The Deputy Governor extended appreciation to the NUC Executive Secretary, President Bola Tinubu, and the Minister of Education for the approval, describing the recognition as a watershed moment in Benue State’s pursuit of academic excellence.
He assured the NUC of the state’s commitment to partnering with the Commission and pursuing the university’s mandate with dedication and skill.
