University Don defends establishment of Federal University of Applied Sciences in Kachia

A Professor in the Department of Geography at the Kaduna State University, John Laah, has defended the proposed Federal University of Applied Sciences in Kachia, saying that it would benefit all Nigerians.

He expressed optimism that the University, when established, would not only benefit the people of Southern Kaduna but all Nigerians.

Speaking to newsmen in Kaduna, on behalf of the Forum of Southern Kaduna Professors, La’ah hailed Senator Sunday Marshall, representing Southern Kaduna senatorial district for initiating the bill to establish the university, expressing confidence that President Bola Tinubu would soon sign the bill into law.

According to him, the choice of Kachia as the university’s location was based on several factors, including existing infrastructure, security, a cosmopolitan population, and cost reduction.

Laah explained that the decision to change the location from Manchok to Kachia was driven by the desire to minimise obstacles and reduce costs.

He stated, “We are thrilled that Senator Marshall has taken the lead in establishing this university. It’s a game-changer for our region and Nigeria as a whole.”

He further stated that Nok University which has five faculties, is already located in Kachia, saying that utilising the existing infrastructure reduces the financial burden.

He said that Kachia has a military establishment, ensuring necessary security and is also more cosmopolitan than Manchok, making it an ideal location.

The University lecturer explained that the university is a federal institution open to all Nigerians, not exclusive to Southern Kaduna.

On the economic benefits, Laah highlighted the potential for ginger research, job creation, and regional development, noting that it is not a Southern Kaduna University of Applied Sciences but a Federal University of Applied Sciences.

He stressed that the admission policy will follow that of other federal universities, giving everyone in Nigeria a chance to attend.

He added that Kachia is known for its ginger production and the university can facilitate research to improve the crop, creating jobs and stimulating growth in the region, pointing out that stakeholders, including traditional rulers, academics, and the Southern Kaduna leadership council, support the establishment of the university.

He added that the Academic Staff Union of Universities has not objected to the proposal.

As the bill awaits presidential assent, stakeholders remain optimistic about the university’s potential to drive growth and development.