Varsity Targets Skills Development With Innovation Hub

Veritas University Abuja has restated its commitment to producing graduates who are not only academically qualified but also equipped with practical, industry-relevant skills through the construction of a N1.3 billion Skills and Innovation Hub.

The Vice-Chancellor of the university, Professor Hyacinth Ichoku, stated this in Abuja on Monday during the groundbreaking ceremony of the facility, performed by Cardinal John Onaiyekan at the institution’s premises.

Speaking, Ichoku said the project is a major investment designed to transform students into job creators and innovators rather than job seekers. He added that it is expected to be completed by the end of January next year.

He said the centre would serve as a melting pot for students with diverse talents, providing dedicated spaces for technology, fashion design, creative arts, music, innovation and entrepreneurship.

“This is a massive project for us because it is supposed to be the melting point for all manner of skills in the university. The structure will cost us N1.3 billion. Work has already started, and the contractor is expected to deliver it by the end of January.

“We want students with different talents to come here to develop and showcase their abilities. We are going to equip the centre with the best facilities we can afford because no student should pass through Veritas University without acquiring a skill.”

Professor Ichoku also said the university’s vision goes beyond awarding degrees, saying students are encouraged to spend time in the creative hub after lectures, working on ideas that address societal challenges instead of returning to their hostels.

“In Veritas, we do not just give students certificates; we also equip them with skills. Skill is the key thing today. If you are a student today and you do not have a skill beyond your certificate, you are going to be in real serious trouble.

“It is not a case of finishing lectures and going back to sleep. Students will go to their creative hubs, work through the night if necessary, and develop solutions to real-life problems. Tomorrow belongs to people with skills,” he said.

The Vice-Chancellor disclosed that the university has partnered with global technology companies to ensure graduates leave with internationally recognised certifications.

“In technology, for example, we provide Cisco and Microsoft training, and every student who passes through Veritas will be certified by Cisco and Microsoft. This building is meant to institutionalise what we are already doing.”

He added that the university also hosts an annual Skills Boot Week, bringing together experts, innovators and notable personalities from Nigeria, across Africa and the United Kingdom to train and mentor students.

According to him, the hub would work closely with the university’s Innovation and Engineering Centre, where students from every discipline can transform ideas into practical solutions using advanced digital tools and high-capacity computing facilities.

“It is not just about what you study in the classroom; it is about your passion. We have seen students studying Medicine, Nursing and other courses building remarkable technology solutions. Education today is also about discovering and developing your talents.”

The Vice-Chancellor also urged young Nigerians to reject the growing culture of seeking quick wealth through fraudulent activities and instead embrace skills acquisition.

Also speaking, a donor, Dr Josephat Kanayo Okoye, said his decision to support Veritas University’s Skills Hub was inspired by a desire to give back to society and prepare young Nigerians for leadership through practical skills.

Speaking with journalists after the foundation-laying ceremony for the university’s Innovation Hub and Skills Boot Centre, Okoye said his philanthropy was driven by gratitude for God’s blessings and a commitment to helping young people succeed.

“What motivated me is what the good Lord has done for me over the years. I decided that we should continue to move forward, and I found in Veritas University a place where truth is in control. The students, staff and the Vice-Chancellor are doing fantastic work.”

He said he was determined to contribute whatever he could to support the institution in equipping young Nigerians for the future.

“Whatever little I can contribute, with the help of God, I will do to help these young people achieve higher goals in life. These are the future leaders of our country. We have done our own. Now it is for the young people and the universities to move the nation forward.”

Okoye also said he chose Veritas University because of its vision and the confidence he has in the institution’s leadership.

“When we launched this project two years ago, I realised these young people were doing wonderful things. They have the vision to move this country forward. The way they are going will not only move Nigeria and Africa forward but will also help move the world.”

According to him, he has already donated more than N200 million towards the project and is satisfied with the progress made.

He emphasised that skills acquisition is the pathway to innovation, entrepreneurship and national development, encouraging young Nigerians to embrace every opportunity to develop relevant competencies.