In a robust endorsement of an often-underrated academic field, Vice-Chancellor of North West University Sokoto Professor Muktar Umar Bunza has passionately advised students to consider Library and Information Science LIS as a critical and rewarding career path.
He gave the advice while receiving a delegation from the Library Registration Council of Nigeria LRCN at the university’s main campus in Sokoto State.
Professor Bunza, described the Library and Information Science course as indispensable in the modern age stressing that in an era drowning in information but starving for knowledge, the librarian and information scientist is the essential navigator for data information management.
Bunza explained that the course is not merely about shelving books, noting that it is the bedrock of the knowledge economy, the cornerstone of research, and the gateway to informed citizenship.
He elaborated on the course’s evolving nature, highlighting its fusion with digital technology, data management, archival preservation, and cybersecurity.
He revealed that due to the shortage of library and information science professionals in the country, graduates from the department often get employed easily.
Earlier, the team leader of the visit also the registerer of the LRCN, ambassador Jafaru Abdullahi Wase said the team was at the university on a routine accreditation and compliance visit, aimed at assessing the standards of the LIS programme, its facilities, curriculum, and adherence to national professional benchmarks.
The team leader commended the university’s apparent commitment, stressing that the Vice-Chancellor’s profound understanding and advocacy for the profession is commendable.
NASIR MALALI