The president of the Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, has initiated a N15 billion, five-year development program for the Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology (ADUSTech) located in Wudil, Kano State.
Dangote made this statement during the 2nd chancellorship investiture and the fifth joint convocation ceremony awards for bachelor’s, master’s, and honorary degrees on Saturday.
He stated that the introduction of the ₦15 billion five-year development initiative aims at infrastructure enhancement within the university and pledged to transform it into one of the top three institutions in Nigeria.
As per his statement, the development plan encompasses the creation and building of separate accommodations for males and females, setting up a state-of-the-art multi-purpose computer lab available round the clock via high-speed internet access, along with installing a small-scale solar energy facility designed to ensure uninterrupted electrical service for the educational institution.
To Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State, Dangote stated, “Your Excellency—the Honorable Leader—this university needs to be revitalized to take the lead in generating groundbreaking research and developing highly skilled professionals who can meet the demands of industry and solve actual problems within our community.”
It is with this intention that I want to seize this moment to unveil our new 5-year development strategy for this institution. In the coming five years, we will allocate a total of N15 billion to these initiatives:
The development and building of extra dormitories for students, along with the creation and erection of a state-of-the-art engineering laboratory, as well as establishing an advanced multi-purpose computer lab accessible to every learner at the institution. This facility will provide round-the-clock internet connectivity aimed at aiding scholarly investigations.
The setup of a small-scale solar facility to enhance electricity availability on campus. Additionally, we commit to planning and erecting an appropriate Senate building that will accommodate the administrative functions of this institution.
The entrepreneur additionally committed to hiring the top-performing engineering students from the institution upon their graduation for positions at both the Dangote Petroleum Refinery and the Dangote Cement.
He stated, “In addition, we plan to set aside job opportunities after NYSC for the top-performing graduates specializing in engineering and other relevant fields that align with our focus areas at the Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemical Plant as well as the Dangote Cement plants.”
The implementation of this development strategy will occur in tight collaboration with the Governing Council, utilizing an appropriate project management framework to guarantee smooth execution within both budgetary constraints and timelines.
Moreover, he commended Governor Yusuf for his commitment to education by proclaiming a state of emergency in the field, viewing it as an approach to tackle contemporary issues.
As we commemorate these accomplishments, it is equally important to use this moment as a reminder of the hurdles still to be faced, particularly when it comes to boosting school enrollments for our youngsters.
I applaud Governor Engineer Abba Kabir Yusuf for addressing the issue of out-of-school children by declaring an educational emergency. However, I urge fellow private citizens to contribute further towards boosting school enrollments, particularly for children aged 7 to 14. This will ensure they receive the necessary groundwork needed for today’s highly competitive landscape, which is fueled by innovation and supported by technological advancements.
That’s why I feel immense pride in being associated with this institution, which concentrates on science and technology. I urge the vice-chancellor and the faculty to keep in mind that their work is aimed at readying the students entrusted to them for the practical world, where these young minds will face challenges, undergo tests, and receive assignments.
“In its 25 years of existence, this university is gaining ground by making rapid growth in a bid to establish its vision of being a centre of excellence. This accomplishment is a result of the conducive and enabling working environment in the University. I am aware that our university is excelling in different areas of research and innovation.
Today, Kano State hosts 25 higher education institutions; 13 are government-run at federal and state levels, while another 12 operate as private entities. Beyond being the economic hub of Nigeria, our esteemed state is rapidly emerging as a wellspring of knowledge thanks to this multitude of educational centers.
“I approach this position with immense excitement and I’m prepared to progress forward with your support to achieve the goals tied to this role.”
Governor Yusuf stated that his government has authorized the development of road systems and drainage facilities at the university.
He additionally declared an automated foreign scholarship for the top nine graduates from the university.
Professor Musa Yakasai, who serves as the Vice Chancellor of the University, expressed gratitude towards the Chancellor for maintaining the institution’s facilities from its inception until now.
Nevertheless, he pointed out that even though the University has achieved numerous milestones, it continues to face challenges related to infrastructure deficiencies, particularly inadequate housing for both students and staff, poor road networks, and dilapidated buildings.
We have received complete certification from the National Universities Commission (NUC) for 41 full-time undergraduate programs, strengthening our standing for academic excellence.
The university presently offers 45 full-time bachelor’s programs, 10 part-time bachelor’s programs, and 57 graduate courses across 6 faculties and 37 departments.
Our community comprises 21,877 students, backed by 672 faculty members — among whom are 63 professors and more than 245 PhD holders — along with 1,790 administrative personnel.
“Our researchers have earned national and international grants, driving innovations especially in agriculture, technology, and education.
He announced that the Kano State Government has obtained another 100 hectares for expanding the campus, which will also include building a new Senate Building.
During the ceremony, Alhaji Dahiru Barau Mangal was awarded an honorary doctorate in business administration. Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso received an honorary degree in science, and Prince Arthur Ikpechukwu Eze was granted an honorary doctorate in business administration as well.
The others include Dr. Ahmad Adeniyi Raji,SAN, recipient of an Honorary Doctorate in Laws, and Alhaji Mustapha Ado Muhammad, who was awarded an Honorary Doctorate in Business Administration.
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