By Hosea Parah, Abuja

Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah, the Bishop of the Diocese of Sokoto, has praised the establishment of the Federal University of Applied Sciences in Kachia, Kaduna State, stating that it has addressed about 60% of the challenges facing Southern Kaduna.

Kukah made the remark on Friday during the inauguration of the university’s Governing Council and Principal Officers by the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa. Kukah, who chairs the university’s governing council, attributed the university’s creation to divine intervention.

“Nigeria may have its own problems, but I can confidently say that 60% of the issues in Southern Kaduna have been resolved,” Kukah said. “We won’t look back because if God wanted us to, He would have given us eyes at the back of our heads. Despite all our challenges, we remain one of the most educated regions in Northern Nigeria, with over 200 professors. The education we received, which has brought us to where we are today, is a result of missionary efforts.”

He also expressed gratitude for the establishment of the university, noting that it provides essential tools for the region’s progress. “We will do everything in our power to ensure the success of this institution. You won’t be disappointed, Mr. President,” he assured.

During the event, Minister Alausa emphasized that the university’s creation was part of broader educational reforms aimed at focusing on technical and vocational training, STEM education, reducing the number of out-of-school children, and promoting girl-child education. The university, he explained, would offer high-tech courses in Applied Sciences and is planning to establish a College of Medicine.

Alausa also highlighted the university’s role in stimulating development in Southern Kaduna and ensuring fairness and equality across the country. “The Ministry of Education will provide maximum support to ensure the success of this project. We have written to JAMB to include the university in their application portal, and we are finalizing the resource verification process. The visitation to the university is scheduled for April 7th, and once completed, all the necessary processes will be in place,” he stated.

The university will offer courses in Applied Sciences, Chemistry, Physics, Environmental Sciences, and Medical Sciences, according to Alausa.

In his remarks, Chief of Defense Staff, General Christopher Musa, assured that adequate security would be provided for the institution. He expressed confidence that the university would become a center of excellence, promoting unity and goodwill among Nigerians. “We are fully committed to ensuring the university’s success and providing security. The federal government is dedicated to ensuring this university thrives. Let’s all work together to make it a success,” General Musa said.

The event marked a significant step towards transforming the educational landscape in Southern Kaduna, with hopes for positive change and growth in the region.