Eleojo Samuel Jalingo
Kwararafa University Wukari, Taraba State, has conferred honorary doctorate degrees on a former Group Managing Director (GMD) of the Nigeria National Petroleum Company (NNPC), Andrew Yakubu, the Attah-Igala, Mathew Alaji Oguche and a former director of finance of the National Assembly, David Kente.
The conferment of the degrees was held on Saturday at the premises of the university during the 2nd combined 2017-2024 convocation ceremony of the university.
Mr Yakubu, a former GMD of NNPC now NNPCL, was conferred with a Doctor of Science degree, the Attah Igala was awarded a Doctor of Letters degree, while Mr Kente was awarded an honorary Doctor of Public Service.
While congratulating the recipients, the University’s Vice Chancellor, prof. Shishi Zhema, said “while we celebrate and recognise your achievements in various aspects of human endeavours, we are quick to remind you of the responsibility these honours come with.”
In his remarks, Mr Yakubu, who is also the Pro Chancellor of the institution, said he is proud to be a descendant of the great Kwararafa Kingdom.
He urged the graduates to be proud of being products of the first Africa community University with rich cultural history.
Yakubu then announced a donation of N10 million for the establishment of a department in the University for the study of Kwararafa history.
Also speaking, Mr Kente, who has contributed a lot to the development of the University, appealed to other descendants of the dynasty across the country to join hands in uplifting the school.
While apologizing for the delay in holding convocation, Zhema said “today’s event is a historic moment, as it marks only the second convocation in the university’s life since our last in March 2017.
“We recognise the delays some of our graduates faced in receiving their original certificates and I deeply apologise for these setbacks.
“This convocation covers eight graduating sets and we are committed to holding future convocations annually, to ensure that our graduates receive the recognition they deserve promptly.
“The university is committed to improving its processes and upholding its promise of providing quality education and a streamlined experience for our students,” he said.
Mr Zhema said that since he took over the mantle of leadership, he has been working with his management towards enhancing the university’s policies and vision.
“Building on my predecessor’s strong foundation, we have introduced new policies and improvements aimed at continuous development.
“It is through such collaborative and forward-looking leadership that Kwararafa University, Wukari continues to grow as a beacon of higher learning and social transformation in Nigeria.
“Together, we are paving the way for a brighter future for our students and the community we serve.
“In the past two years, we have made significant strides across various fronts. Our enrollment numbers have seen remarkable growth, reflecting the increasing trust in the quality and relevance of our programmes.
“Through the National Universities Commission, we have achieved accreditation for all academic programmes, stabilised our academic calendar and enhanced the infrastructural development of both our city and main campuses.
“Furthermore, we have taken a bold step to introduce postgraduate programmes. These programmes have been resource verified by the NUC and we are optimistic about further expanding our offerings to meet the demands of our evolving world.
“This represents our commitment to providing a world-class education that equips our students with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive.
“A crucial aspect of our strategy has been fostering sustainable partnerships and entrepreneurial endeavours.
“These initiatives are part of our mission to diversify funding sources, prioritise staff welfare and create a stable environment for both students and staff.
“Our goal is to build a vibrant academic community that can adapt and innovate in response to emerging challenges.
“Today, we celebrate the remarkable achievements of our students. It is with great pride that I announce the success of 26 students who have attained the prestigious First Class Honours across our three colleges, with nine of them set to receive the university’s prestigious awards,” he noted.//////