The Federal Government has granted approval for the establishment of the Ebonyi State University of ICT, Science, and Technology, Oferekpe, marking a significant milestone for the state’s educational development.
The approval was formalized on Thursday when AbdullahiRibadu, Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC), presented the official letter of recognition to Governor Francis Nwifuru in Abuja. With this recognition, the new institution becomes the 66th state university in Nigeria and the 278th university in the Nigerian University System.
Ribadu clarified, however, that the university would not commence academic activities until after a thorough resource verification process is completed. He explained that the NUC would need to assess key facilities such as infrastructure, classrooms, libraries, and staffing before giving the final go-ahead for academic operations.
“We will still have to undertake a resource verification. The commission will visit when the university is ready to ensure that everything is in place,” Ribadu stated. He assured the University of the NUC’s support once the verification is completed.
In response, Governor Nwifuru expressed his gratitude for the approval and provided insight into the university’s conception. He revealed that the initiative, which began in 2021, aimed to increase access to affordable and quality tertiary education in Ebonyi State. This, he said, would not only provide educational opportunities for residents but also bridge the technical skills gap in the state’s workforce.
Nwifuru also assured that the state government had allocated funds for the construction of essential buildings on the campus. These include the Senate building, staff quarters, students’ hostels, faculty buildings, and the university library, which are all at various stages of completion. He further noted that principal officers have already been appointed to lead the institution as it prepares for its eventual take-off.
With this approval, the establishment of the Ebonyi State University of ICT, Science, and Technology is expected to have a lasting impact on the region’s educational and economic development.
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