By Ibrahim Suleiman.
The Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Education, Zaria, Professor Yahaya Isa Bunkure, says the institution has recorded significant achievements in his first year in office.
Professor Bunkure stated this during a briefing marking his first anniversary of his assumption of office held in Zaria.
He said his administration had strengthened the university’s academic structure, infrastructure, staff welfare, digital services and security.
The Vice-Chancellor disclosed that 58 qualified academic staff had been placed on the ranks of Professors and Readers while the university’s admission quota increased from 1,500 to 5,000 students.
He noted that 34 academic programmes had been approved as part of efforts to expand access and strengthen the institution’s academic profile.
Professor Bunkure pointed out that several facilities had been completed, rehabilitated, including the Senate Building, University Library, Faculty of Languages, Mathematics Block, Professorial Complex and Home Economics Laboratories.
He maintained that the university had installed solar power systems at the waterworks and several other facilities, as well as solar streetlights at strategic locations on campus.
The Vice-Chancellor said the university had also strengthened its ICT infrastructure, including the establishment of a digital centre equipped with 200 computers, 20 laptops, internet facilities and independent solar power.
He stressed that the centre would support digital learning, computer-based examinations, research, training and administrative services.
Professor Bunkure said his administration had also prioritised staff welfare, professional development and industrial harmony through dialogue with staff unions.
He disclosed that 48 additional security personnel had been employed and collaboration with security agencies strengthened to improve safety within the university.
The Vice-Chancellor expressed appreciation to the Federal Government, the university’s Governing Council, staff, students, traditional institutions, security agencies and the Zaria community for their support.
Professor Bunkure added that the administration would continue to consolidate the transition of the institution into a strong university of education capable of contributing to Nigeria’s human capital development.
Editing by Abubakar Hamza.
