Alumni Association of Bauchi State College of Agriculture, Bauchi, has sent a passionate appeal to the state government to rename the institution Goodluck Jonathan College of Agriculture and General Studies.
At a press conference in Bauchi at the weekend, president of the association, Muhammad Sani Mu’azu explained that the adjustment would align the institution with national standards and open new avenues for growth and modernisation.
“This change is not merely symbolic; it carries significant practical implications. With this new status, the college would be eligible to benefit from interventions by the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), which would unlock new opportunities for funding, research and infrastructure development,” the alumni stated.
He added that changing the nomenclature would provide the opportunity to accommodate more courses such as Entrepreneurship Development, Science-related courses, and other disciplines that would enhance the institution’s relevance and competitiveness.
Mu’azu said that they proposed the former president for the honour due to his remarkable commitment to democracy, education and the development of Nigeria, saying during his presidency, Goodluck Jonathan demonstrated a strong passion for education, introducing a number of initiatives.
He cited some of the initiatives to include the Almajiri Education Programme, which was aimed at integrating Qur’anic education into the formal education system – Presidential Special Scholarship Scheme for Innovation and Development (PRESSID).
“The initiative also provided scholarships to first-class graduates of Nigerian universities – Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) – which provided funding for infrastructure development and research in tertiary institutions as the administration also established 12 new federal universities, increased funding for education, and implemented programmes to improve access to education for disadvantaged groups,” the association’s president said.
According to the alumni, it is in considering these achievements and his dedication to democracy and education, they believe that Goodluck Jonathan is an ideal candidate for this honour, emphasising that Governor Bala’s contribution to the college is already yielding positive results.
Mu’azu expressed delight that the institution was set to add more Higher National Diploma (HND) courses soon to further expand its academic offers and enhance its reputation, and reaffirmed the association’s unwavering commitment to the advancement of its alma mater.
He urged the state government to consider the proposed name-change as a strategic move to secure the future of the institution.
He recalled that the college has over the years played a pivotal role in shaping the agricultural landscape of Bauchi State and Nigeria, producing a great number of professionals who have significantly contributed to agricultural productivity, food security, and economic growth in the state and beyond.
“We are gladdened by the recent intervention by His Excellency, Governor Bala Abdulkadir Muhammad, who has demonstrated his unwavering commitment to revitalising this institution. The fencing of the college and the ongoing rehabilitation works are critical steps toward restoring its dignity and functionality,” Mu’azu said.
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