Kaduna State University (KASU), in collaboration with its Students’ Union and Alumni Association, marked its 20th anniversary with a grand celebration under the theme: “Path to Greatness: The Role of State Universities in the 21st Century and Ways to Empower Them to Compete Globally.”
The event, held on Saturday, 14th December 2024 at the prestigious Umar Yaradua Hall, Murtala Muhammad Square, Kaduna, brought together stakeholders from academic, political, and business communities. Students, faculty, alumni, and invited dignitaries celebrated two decades of academic excellence, innovation, and impactful contributions to the region's development.
The Registrar of Kaduna State University, Barr. Samira Balarabe, welcomed the esteemed guests and participants to the landmark event. She stressed the significance of the anniversary in celebrating not only KASU’s achievements but also recognizing the collective efforts of its stakeholders.
“KASU’s journey over the past 20 years has been one of resilience, innovation, and steady progress. This celebration allows us to reflect on our successes and challenges as we forge ahead into the future,” she stated. The Registrar also commended the collaboration among the university’s administration, students, and alumni, urging all to remain committed to the institution’s shared vision.
The keynote address was delivered by the founding father of the university and former Governor of Kaduna State, His Excellency, Sen. Ahmed Mohammed Makarfi. In his remarks, he reflected on the inception of KASU and the need for state universities to adapt to the changing educational landscape.
“When we envisioned the establishment of Kaduna State University 20 years ago, the goal was to create an institution that would serve as a beacon of learning, research, and innovation. Today, I am proud to see how far KASU has come in fulfilling that vision,” Makarfi said. He stressed the importance of state universities in driving socio-economic development and called for sustained government and private-sector investments to ensure global competitiveness.
In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of KASU, Prof. Abdullahi I. Musa, highlighted the institution's remarkable journey from its humble beginnings in 2004 to becoming a leading state university in Nigeria. He emphasized KASU’s commitment to academic excellence and its efforts to produce graduates capable of tackling global challenges.
“State universities like KASU are vital engines of socio-economic development,” Prof. Musa said. “As we celebrate 20 years of growth and achievement, we must also look to the future, exploring strategies to empower state universities to compete effectively on a global scale.”
He extended his gratitude to the Governor of Kaduna State and Visitor to KASU, His Excellency, Sen. Uba Sani, for his steadfast support and visionary leadership. “Your unwavering commitment to education as a tool for development has elevated KASU to greater heights,” he added.
Prof. Musa also acknowledged the visionary leadership of the founding father of KASU, Sen. Ahmed Mohammed Makarfi, for sowing the seeds of what has become a beacon of academic excellence, innovation, and transformation.
KASU’s Milestones
The Vice-Chancellor outlined the impressive growth of KASU:
Over 25,000 enrolled students with 46% female students.
1,863 staff members, comprising 964 academic and 899 non-teaching staff.
169 Professors driving research and academic excellence.
6 campuses across the state, 7 Colleges, 5 Institutes, and 4 research centers.
15 Faculties, offering 59 undergraduate programs, 133 postgraduate programs, 57 sub-degree programs, and 15 part-time programs to enhance accessibility to education.
A robust alumni network of over 70,000 graduates.
74 student unions and 32 affiliated schools fostering vibrant student engagement.
Prof. Musa praised the university’s recognition for high-impact research, collaborations, and its high-profile medical college. He proudly noted that KASU is ranked as the 2nd most sought-after state-owned university in Nigeria.
The President of the KASU Students’ Union, Amb. Abubakar Muhammad, and the President of KASU Alumni Association, Mal. Abdulhadi Abdullahi, expressed pride in the university's legacy. They emphasized the importance of continuous collaboration between students, alumni, and the administration to further elevate KASU’s standing.
The Governor of Kaduna State and Visitor to KASU, His Excellency, Sen. Uba Sani, represented by the Honourable Commissioner of Education, Prof. Muhammad Sani Bello, applauded the remarkable strides of KASU over the past two decades, describing the institution as a catalyst for human capital development in Kaduna State and beyond. “KASU has become a symbol of our collective resolve to invest in education as a cornerstone of progress. The achievements of this institution over the last 20 years are a testament to the hard work of its faculty, students, and leadership,” Governor Sani stated.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the state’s education sector and pledged increased funding, infrastructural development, and partnerships to ensure KASU remains globally competitive. “As we look to the future, my government will continue to prioritize education and provide the necessary support to empower KASU to produce graduates who are not only employable but also innovators and leaders of tomorrow,” he added.
Governor Sani also called on the private sector, alumni, and philanthropists to invest in KASU, stressing that partnerships are crucial in achieving the university’s long-term goals.
The event featured lectures and alumni success stories, underscoring the impact of a KASU education in shaping careers and contributing to societal development.
Special awards were presented to distinguished individuals who have contributed significantly to KASU’s development. Recipients included: Former Governors and Visitors to KASU or their representatives: Those present include, His Excellency Sen. Ahmed Mohammed Makarfi and His Excellency Alh. (Dr.) Mukhtar Ramalan Yero.
The current and former Vice-Chancellors. The Chief of Defense Staff, Gen. CG Musa who was represented by Commodore DM Ndanusa. Alumni, staff, students, and other stakeholders pivotal to advancing KASU’s mission.
The anniversary celebration concluded with a call to action for increased investment in state universities, highlighting partnerships, technology integration, and international collaborations as critical pathways to global competitiveness.
As KASU enters its third decade, it remains steadfast in its vision of producing graduates equipped to shape a brighter future for Kaduna State, Nigeria, and the world.
Signed
Adamu Nuhu Bargo
Public Relations Officer,
Kaduna State University.
