By Ken Afor
At the joint convocation of the Federal University Dutsinma (FUDMA), Katsina State, held on Saturday, the Chancellor, King (Dr) Dandeson Douglas Jaja, posed a major worry concerning the security dilemma the university is facing.
The Chancellor of the university, Jaja, declared the susceptibility of its core campus which is nearly 25 kilometers in distance from a dangerous region vulnerable to abduction and plundering by thugs.
He stated that, because of the safety concerns, the university is limited in using its primary campus buildings, necessitating daily shuttling of students between locations with protection provided by security officials.
Katsina State in recent years had become a hot bed for armed banditry and abduction of varsity students in the state.
In October 4, 2023, five students from FUDMA were abducted in the early hours of the day and about a month after some seven villagers were reportedly taken by armed men.
Although, there were reports that some of the abductees have been freed.
The Chancellor in his appeal called on the federal government and all stakeholders to do more to combat the problems that the students have been facing despite the backing and collaboration of the security forces in the state.
His words, “Mr. President, distinguished ladies and gentlemen, while I do not intend to bore you with a long speech, I must not fail to inform you that FUDMA is facing serious security challenges.
“The main campus of the university is located at a distance of about 25km from the take-off campus located in a volatile area vulnerable to attacks by kidnappers and bandits.
“The university has not been able to utilize the structures and facilities at the main campus due to security challenges, while students have to be transported daily to and from the two campuses.
“While we appreciate realistically the financial situation of the Federal Government, security is a collective responsibility. I, therefore, appeal to all to come to the aid of the university to address some of these challenges facing the university.”
On the event of the day, the Chancellor announced that 11 students graduated with Doctorates, 168 with Masters, 73 with Professional Diplomas, and 149 with Postgraduate Diplomas, resulting in a total of 401 postgraduate graduates.
Altogether, the university’s graduation resulted in 4,365 graduates: 112 earning first-class honors, 1,131 obtaining second-class upper, 2,476 receiving second-class lower, and 646 achieving third-class degrees.
The convocation ceremony especially shines by bestowing honorary doctorate degrees upon three people who greatly helped the university and society.
Ibrahim Shehu Shema was given an Honorary Doctorate of Law in recognition of his outstanding service and invaluable contributions to society as a former governor of Katsina State.
The influential contributions of Alhaji Farouk Umar Farouk, Emir of Daura, to society were recognized when he received a Doctorate of Letters (Honoris Causa).
Alhaji Nasiru Ado Bayero, His Royal Highness, the Emir of Bichi, was bestowed a Doctorate of Business Administration as a token of recognition for his remarkable accomplishments.
While Chancellor Jaja addressed a wish that the recipients harness their expertise to additionally benefit the institute’s increase and progress.
