By Stanley Onyekwere
The Vice-Chancellor of Nasarawa State University, Keffi, Professor Suleiman Bala Mohammed, reassured postgraduate students of the university’s commitment to ensure prompt completion of their doctorate degrees.
Mohammed, who gave the assurance at the End of Course Work Dinner and award night organised by the Institute of Governance and Development Studies Security and Strategic Studies, IGDS (Ph.D) Course 5 in Abuja, reiterated the need for efficiency in postgraduate studies.
Represented at the occasion by the Director, IGDS, Prof. Zamani Andrew, the VC expressed his initial concern upon discovering that only two students had defended their Ph.D. theses when he assumed office.
He added that however, with renewed efforts and trust in responsible individuals, the university witnessed a significant increase in completed Ph.D. programs, with an additional 99 graduates by the first convocation.
The Vice-Chancellor acknowledged the Institute of Governance and Development Studies (IGDS) for its role in achieving this feat.
He outlined the institute’s efforts to explore the possibilities of engaging university lecturers and industry practitioners in training individuals for university degrees.
He also encouraged Ph.D. graduates to take advantage of postgraduate fellowships, enabling them to return to the university to teach and conduct research.
Commenting on the various milestones that highlighted during the event, including study tours that earned students fellowships and the introduction of mandatory internships for specific programs, the Vice-Chancellor expressed optimism about achieving additional milestones, and he urged stakeholders to keep supporting the university’s initiatives for the benefit of students and the nation.
Also, the Vice-Chancellor expressed hope for an additional 40 Ph.D. graduates from the current class by November, emphasizing the university’s commitment to academic excellence and the continued growth of its programs.
Earlier, the Class Governor, Dr. Peter Olumuji, congratulated the graduates who successfully defended their theses and emphasised the importance of using the Ph.D. award to bridge divides and contribute positively to the nation.
Olumuji, while touching on concerns about the negative impact of religion and tribalism, encouraged graduates to rise above divisive tendencies.
According to him, focusing on research is not an easy task especially where many of us have to joggle it with very busy and tight official assignments; however, in our busy and tight schedule, we have about 12 classmates who have successfully defended their thesis and are confirmed holders of Doctor of Philosophy in security and strategic studies.
On his part, Chairman of the Planning Committee, Real Admiral Suleiman Apochi highlighted the event’s significance in connecting the end of classwork, emphasizing the exposure gained through national and regional study tours.
The ceremony also recognized distinguished personalities for their selfless service and contributions to the academic world and the university’s development.
Also, certificates of appreciation were presented, and the event provided an opportunity to celebrate the completion of coursework and academic achievements.
