Posted by By EMMANUEL ADEYEMI, Lokoja on
Kogi State University, Anyingba last Saturday had its maiden convocation ceremony with over 985 graduands awarded various degrees and diplomas.
Kogi State University, Anyingba last Saturday had its maiden convocation ceremony with over 985 graduands awarded various degrees and diplomas. The colourful ceremony held at the university stadium, also featured the conferment of honourary doctorate degrees on notable Nigerians, including Chief S. B. Daniyan and Chief Joshua Omuya.
In his address on the occasion, Kogi State Governor, Arch. Ibrahim Idris expressed satisfaction that the institution has catered for the educational needs of youths in the state who, he noted, before the establishment of the university five years ago, were roaming the streets in search of elusive admission into tertiary institutions.
The governor stated that his administration had continuously provided a conducive atmosphere for students and academics as well as non-academic staff to operate.
He said since assumption of office, he had approved the payment of 22 per cent increase in salary to staff of tertiary institutions in the state, provided the sum of N50 million for the furnishing of the Senate building and logistic support for the smooth administration of the students.
The governor however, called on private entrepreneurs to come to Anyingba and complement the effort of the state government by building off-campus accommodation for the students.
In his address, the vice chancellor of the university, Prof. Simeon Koma Okwute said the university was turning out two sets of graduates in its five years existence.
He disclosed that the university started with an annual student intake of 751 in 1999/2000 which progressed to 3,000 students intake in 2004/2005 academic year.