Varsities intake to increase from 400,000 to one million, says Jonathan

From Femi Oyelola, Kaduna

President Good Luck Jonathan has promised to increase access to quality education by increasing admission into universities from 400,000 to over one million.

Represented by the Minister of Education Malam Ibrahim Shekarau, the President made the disclosure at the 37th convocation ceremony of Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, at the weekend.

The President also said entrepreneurial development is a critical tool for national growth and must be pursued diligently, hence the need for Nigerian universities to develop sustainable strategies for entrepreneurial development.

 He said his government would continue to address the issue of employment for the teeming youths and for rapid economic growth.

The President urged the graduating students to make the best use of their training to make them relevant in the competitive labour market and entrepreneurial space that the growing economy provides.

Jonathan also urged Nigerian universities to always pursue goals that would facilitate unity, growth and corporate existence of Nigeria.

“As graduates, you should apply your knowledge, skills and creativity, and avail yourselves of the opportunities created by several policies of this administration, aimed at empowering young people and others to succeed on their own,” he said.

He called on the graduating students to apply the knowledge and skills acquired in the   development of the society in particular and the nation at large.

He described ABU as an embodiment of peace, unity and excellent service in view of its strive toward bringing people together irrespective of tribe, region, religion and ethnic affiliation.

The president charged both the Council and management of the university to sustain the training of young Nigerians who would in turn use their youthful agility to contribute to national growth and development.

In his speech, Vice-Chancellor of the University , Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha, said the graduands included 33 first class, 1,273 second class upper, 5,064 second class lower 2,287 third class, 183 pass, 2,136 Post Graduate Diploma, 2339 masters degree and 360 PhDs.

He reminded the graduating students that by the conferment of higher degrees and diplomas they are now members of the over 500,000 strong alumni the university had produced in the last 50 years.

“I implore you to conduct yourself on the basis of solid character defined by humanity, honesty, dedication, respect, tolerance, moderation and sacrifice for the sake of others and the society.

“I also urge you to use the skills, knowledge and the good character you have acquired in ABU for the service of society and humanity.

“I am confident that the university has trained you to face greater challenges to secure a   respectable life,” he advised.