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University set to graduate 5,816 students
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119 with first-class honours
From John Adams, Minna
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Alhaji Tajudeen Abbas, will deliver the 33rd Convocation Lecture of the Federal University of Technology (FUT), Minna, Niger State, on Friday. The institution is set to graduate no fewer than 5,816 students with various degrees on Saturday, 2 February 2025, at the Suleimanu Kumo Convocation Square, Main Campus.
The breakdown indicates that 119 students will graduate with first-class honours, 1,431 with second-class upper, 2,341 with second-class lower, 972 with third-class, and 92 will receive pass degrees.
In addition to the convocation lecture, the Speaker is expected to commission several projects, including the Central Workshop and Foundry Complex, a hub for innovation and manufacturing; an architectural studio, a state-of-the-art learning space for architecture students; and a students’ hostel funded by TETFund.
The Vice-Chancellor of the University, Professor Farouq Adamu Kuta, disclosed this at the Gidan Kwanu Main Campus on Tuesday during a briefing with newsmen as part of activities marking the convocation, which coincides with the University’s 42nd Founder’s Day.
He said that, in line with the tradition of the institution, “All the graduating students will collect original copies of their certificates on that day,” adding that this will include receiving their transcripts upon request.
The Vice-Chancellor also revealed that Honorary Doctorate degrees will be conferred on prominent Nigerians who have distinguished themselves in various fields of human endeavour, though he declined to disclose their names.
Professor Farouq used the opportunity to highlight remarkable achievements under his leadership. He noted that the institution “has successfully implemented e-learning” to enhance teaching delivery. Additionally, the National Universities Commission (NUC), the Surveyors Council of Nigeria (SURCON), the Estate Surveyors and Valuers Registration Board of Nigeria (ESVARBON), and the Architects Registration Council (ARCON) have given full accreditation to all the University’s programmes.
In line with its commitment to delivering cutting-edge education, the University has introduced 13 new academic programmes, which, according to the Vice-Chancellor, “align with contemporary societal needs and global competitiveness.”
The University has also facilitated the signing and activation of over 30 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with local and international organisations.
Professor Farouq acknowledged that a shortage of hostel accommodation remains the major challenge facing the University. However, he expressed gratitude to Sardauna Minna Alhaji Ibrahim Aliyu, the BUA Group of Companies, and TETFund for their interventions in this regard.
On staff development, the Vice-Chancellor announced that 94 study fellowships have been awarded, while 112 staff members were sponsored to workshops and conferences. He further noted that 74 staff members were promoted to the ranks of Professors and Associate Professors, 87 to other academic ranks, 174 senior non-teaching staff, and 34 junior staff also received promotions during the year.
Professor Farouq declared: “Our success is a testament to the collaborative efforts of our dedicated staff, diligent students, and supportive community.”
The activities marking the convocation and Founder’s Day ceremonies began on Friday with a special Jummat prayer held at the central mosques on the Bosso and Gidan Kwano campuses. A special interdenominational church service followed on Sunday at the Chapel of Grace on both campuses.