Gumel Assumes FUD VC Role, Unveils 11-Point Agenda for Academic Excellence

By Ahmed Rufa’i, Dutse
Professor Ahmad Muhammed Gumel has officially assumed office as the third substantive Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University Dutse (FUD), pledging to drive academic excellence and institutional transformation through an ambitious 11-point strategic agenda.
The formal inauguration took place on Monday at the Nuhu Muhammed Sunusi Auditorium, where Professor Gumel outlined his vision to reposition FUD in line with national priorities and global best practices in higher education.
Addressing staff, students, and stakeholders, the new Vice-Chancellor emphasized that academic excellence will remain the cornerstone of his administration. He stressed the importance of modernizing existing curricula to meet National Universities Commission (NUC) standards while responding to emerging trends in digital learning.
In line with this vision, Professor Gumel announced the introduction of market-driven and interdisciplinary programmes, including:
Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning
Data Science & Analytics Networking & Cloud Computing Project Management, Procurement & Supply Chain Management, Geology & Climate-Smart Agriculture, Optometry & Physiotherapy,
Community Health, Science & Business Education.
Beyond curriculum reform, the Vice-Chancellor highlighted research and innovation, digital transformation, student welfare, staff development, financial sustainability, global partnerships, community engagement, governance and accountability, and environmental sustainability as critical pillars of his administration.
Professor Gumel articulated a long-term vision to transform FUD into a research-driven centre of excellence in agriculture, science, technology, management, and the humanities by 2030. He reiterated that the university’s mission is to foster an environment promoting academic rigor, knowledge creation, and the free exchange of ideas, while producing graduates who are employable, innovative, and committed to national development.
Expressing gratitude to his predecessor, Professor Abdulkarim Sabo Mohammed, Gumel acknowledged his mentorship and leadership, which he said significantly shaped his professional trajectory. He also thanked the university’s fourth Governing Council, chaired by Professor Shu’aibu Oba Abdul Raheem, for their confidence in his leadership.
Professor Gumel further recognised the support of Jigawa State Governor Malam Umar Namadi for his sustained commitment to the university, and lauded the solidarity and dedication of staff throughout the selection process.
With the 11-point agenda now unveiled, stakeholders are watching closely to see how the new administration will translate vision into action, enhance academic standards, and position FUD as a nationally and internationally respected university.