By Abdullahi Idris, Dutse Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State has reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to making educati...
By Abdullahi Idris, Dutse
Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State has reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to making education the cornerstone of sustainable development in the state.
Speaking at the 8th and 9th Combined Convocation Ceremony of the Federal University Dutse (FUD), where hundreds of students were awarded undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, the Governor emphasized the transformative power of education and called for increased child enrollment across the state.
Governor Namadi described the event as both historic and inspirational, congratulating the graduating students for their perseverance and dedication.
“Today is a testament to your hard work and resilience. You have overcome challenges and are now prepared to face a world filled with even more opportunities and responsibilities,” he said.
He also commended the management and academic leadership of FUD for upholding a strong tradition of excellence and innovation. Despite being only 14 years old, the University has earned national and international recognition for its academic performance and research output.
“At one point, FUD was ranked the best in Mathematical Sciences among all African universities—a remarkable achievement for an institution established just in 2011,” the Governor noted.
Governor Namadi highlighted ongoing collaboration between the state and the University, particularly in the field of agriculture. He said the partnership aims to find innovative solutions to farming challenges and equip young people with the tools to become leaders in agribusiness.
“We are working together with FUD to pioneer agricultural research and development that will not only improve local farming practices but also empower our youth through innovation and entrepreneurship in agriculture,” he stated.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to education, the Governor outlined several key policy initiatives aimed at transforming the sector in Jigawa State:
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Allocation of at least 30% of the state’s annual budget to education.
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Recruitment of qualified teachers to improve primary and secondary education.
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Renovation of dilapidated school infrastructure and provision of modern learning tools.
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Revitalization of technical and vocational education to enhance practical skills and self-reliance.
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Expansion and upgrading of tertiary institutions across the state.
Governor Namadi also highlighted the state's acquisition of Khadija University, Majia—Jigawa’s first private university—which will be transformed into a specialized institution under a Public-Private Partnership model. This, he said, is part of a broader vision to establish Jigawa as a center for learning and research excellence.
In his closing remarks, the Governor urged the new graduates to be responsible ambassadors of their alma mater and to contribute meaningfully to the development of society.
“The knowledge and skills you have acquired, the friendships you have built, and the lessons you have learned will serve as invaluable tools as you embark on your careers. Today marks not the end, but the beginning of your journey,” he concluded.
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