Friday, 29 November 2024

Rediscovering Our Roots: Scholar champions African heritage and indigenous knowledge as pillars for growth and education

Kaduna State University (KASU) hosted a thought-provoking public lecture on Thursday, 28th November 2024, titled “Africa in the Academy: The Challenges of Ontological Suicide,” focusing on the importance of African heritage and indigenous knowledge systems. The lecture brought together scholars and leaders to reimagine Africa’s role in global intellectual discourse.

The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Abdullahi Ibrahim Musa, delivered the opening remarks, emphasizing the need for transformative knowledge over mere information. He highlighted the pivotal role of philosophy in promoting understanding and growth among Africa's youth.

The keynote speaker, Emeritus Professor John Ayotunde (Tunde) Isola Bewaji from the University of the West Indies, delved into the challenges Africa faces in preserving its cultural identity. He lamented the historical disregard for African traditions and knowledge, which often gain recognition only after validation by Western science.

Prof. Bewaji passionately advocated for a return to Africa’s roots, encouraging the continent to embrace its history, traditions, and rich cultural practices, including local skills, natural medicines, and preservation techniques. He also criticized the neglect of African history in school curricula, urging its integration to inspire pride and identity among the youth.

The Chairman of the event, the Acting Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Education, Zaria, Dr. Suleiman Balarabe who was represented by the Director, Quality Assurance, Dr. Tunde Adesina stressed the importance of incorporating indigenous knowledge and narratives into Nigerian universities. He called for the adoption of local curricula to foster self-reliance and cultural authenticity.

The lecture concluded with a call to action for Africans to reclaim their heritage and use it as a foundation for sustainable growth and development in education, culture, and daily life.

Signed

Adamu Nuhu Bargo
Public Relations Officer,
Kaduna State University.

Strengthening Ties Through Media Education: KASU Participates in the 2nd Russian-African Media Forum

The second edition of the Russian-African Media Forum for Young Media Practitioners was held between Thursday, 21st and Friday, 22nd November 2024, at the Institute of World Economy Business Hall of the RUDN University, Moscow, Russia.

This edition featured a plenary session and two roundtable discussions. Key themes included Journalism Education and Young Professionals' Collaboration in Russia and Africa, as well as Media Literacy to combat disinformation. Notable contributors included Prof. Mohammed Sani Bello Honorable Commissioner of Education, Kaduna State, Abdullahi Ibrahim Musa, Vice Chancellor, Kaduna State University, and Prof. Ayodele Joseph, Dean, Faculty of Communications and Media Studies, Kaduna State University.

During the grand opening session, leading academics and practitioners in the Russian and African media markets and education sectors highlighted the essence of the forum and the need for its continuity.

Participants of the forum discussed different strategies and actions being taken by various stakeholders in both Russia and Africa to strengthen the relationship and advance the field of media, journalism and communication socially, economically and politically. Likewise, the roundtable discussants consisted of professionals, educators, and young media professionals who discussed the menace of disinformation and stereotypes as critical issues that need to be dealt with. The speeches and discussions dealt with challenges and solutions for critical issues that were raised.

This year's edition yielded immediate results, with two young African media professionals, who participated in the event, receiving scholarships to pursue master's programs at Kaduna State University, courtesy of the Vice Chancellor.

The forum praised RUDN University's efforts in nurturing highly skilled media and journalism professionals through its esteemed programs; Bachelor's degree in Multimedia Journalism (English Medium), Master's degree in Global and Digital Media (English Medium) and PhD in International Journalism (English Medium) offered by the Department of Mass Communication, Faculty of Philology, these programs showcase RUDN University's dedication to producing top-tier media and journalism professionals.

The highlight of the forum was a business meeting between RUDN's Philological Faculty and Kaduna State University, led by Prof. Abdullahi I. Musa, Vice Chancellor, and Prof. Ayodele Joseph, Dean, Faculty of  Communications and Media Studies. This marked the inception of strategic partnership projects, paving the way for the forum's objectives to become a tangible reality.

Issues of student exchange, the organization of summer schools for teachers of the Kaduna State University and the implementation of network programs in the field of additional education were discussed.

The meeting was attended by Viktor Barabash, Dean of the RUDN Philological Faculty, Kristina Abdus, Director of the Center for Additional Professional Education of the RUDN Philological Faculty, Natalia Poplavskaya, Deputy Dean for International Activities, Mustafa Mohammed Jamiu, a specialist at the Institute of Geopolitics.

Signed

Adamu Nuhu Bargo
Public Relations Officer,
Kaduna State University.

Friday, 15 November 2024

Prof. Abdullahi Ibrahim Musa wins Time Africa's Vice-Chancellor of the Year Award

In a remarkable recognition of his leadership and vision, Prof. Abdullahi Ibrahim Musa, the Vice-Chancellor of Kaduna State University (KASU), has received the prestigious Vice-Chancellor of the Year award by Time Africa Magazine. He was presented with the award on Wednesday, 13th November 2024, at the Nigeria National Merit Award House, Abuja. This accolade highlights his significant contributions to the academic landscape in Nigeria, Africa, and beyond.

Prof. Musa, who holds a Ph.D from Emporia University in the USA, along with degrees from Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria and Bayero University Kano (BUK), has established himself as a transformative figure in higher education. His extensive experience as a researcher and academic administrator has played a pivotal role in shaping KASU’s strategic vision.

Under his leadership, KASU has made strides towards becoming a world-class institution, focusing on excellence in research, teaching, and community engagement. His strategic plan emphasises infrastructure development and a student-centered approach, ensuring that the needs and aspirations of students remain at the forefront of the university's initiatives.

The university community congratulates Prof. Musa on this well-deserved honor. Receiving this award is not just a personal achievement for the Vice-Chancellor but also a recognition of the collective efforts of our management, staff, and students. It reaffirms our commitment to elevating our university's profile and promoting an environment of academic excellence and innovation.

The Time Africa Magazine award is a testament to Prof. Musa’s strategic and robust leadership within the university and the broader academic community. His dedication to advancing higher education inspires us all as we continue to strive for excellence in teaching and research in line with global best practices.

As KASU progresses under Prof. Musa’s guidance, this achievement inspires the entire university community to uphold and pursue higher standards of scholarship and service to society.

Signed

Adamu Nuhu Bargo
Public Relations Officer,
Kaduna State University

KASU's Vice Chancellor Marks Two Years of Transformational Leadership

Prof. Abdullahi Ibrahim Musa marked his second anniversary as the Vice Chancellor of Kaduna State University (KASU) today, Thursday, 14th November 2024 showcasing his transformative achievements that have elevated the institution’s standing both nationally and internationally. Under his leadership, KASU has witnessed significant advancements in research, teaching, community engagement, infrastructure, and student and staff welfare.

In a span of just two years, Prof. Musa has reengineered the university’s framework to prioritise quality education and inclusivity. Notable among his contributions are the establishment of modern infrastructure, including lecture theatres and classrooms, as well as the introduction of innovative assessment and feedback mechanisms to enhance learning. His administration has also focused on employability by promoting internship programs that bridge the gap between academia and industry.

A commitment to e-learning and inclusive education has ensured that KASU’s programs remain accessible to a wider audience, fostering a supportive environment for students of diverse backgrounds. Staff welfare has been equally prioritised, with timely promotions for both academic and non-teaching staff, which have boosted morale and productivity. Prof. Musa’s transparent and prudent management of university funds has led to numerous improvements without financial strain.

Highlighting his leadership success, Prof. Musa received an award from Time Africa Magazine on Wednesday, 13th November  2024, recognising his invaluable contributions to educational advancement at KASU and his impact on higher education across Nigeria and Africa. This honor underlines the positive influence of his policies and reforms on the educational landscape.

Reflecting on the Vice Chancellor's journey, the University community celebrates his achievements and commitment to continued growth. Together, we will keep striving to make KASU a beacon of excellence in education.

As KASU moves forward, staff, students and the broader academic community are optimistic about the future, confident that under Prof. Musa’s leadership, the institution will continue to rise as a center of learning, innovation, and community development.

Signed

Adamu Nuhu Bargo
Public Relations Officer,
Kaduna State University.

KASU Celebrates 20th Anniversary with Landmark Event

Kaduna State University (KASU), in collaboration with its Students’ Union and Alumni Association, marked its 20th anniversary wi...