Follow Us on Google
…Gives education priority in 2024 appropriation
From Tony John, Port Harcourt
Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has said his government was committed to providing necessary financial and other levels of support that would strengthen the capacity of the Rivers State University (RSU) to rank as one of the best in Nigeria.
Fubara made the promise at the 35th convocation ceremony of the Rivers State University that took place at the Convocation Arena of the institution in Nkpolu-Orworukwo, Port Harcourt yesterday.
The governor said the promised support was borne out of the fact that education serves as the cornerstone for a firm, equitable and progressive society that is desired of Rivers State.
His words: “Bear in mind that funding is a problem, not just to this university system, but also to governance. But, as you all know, education is cornerstone of a firm, equitable and progressive society.
“Therefore, we will continue to do our best to finance our own university. Our commitment to make RSU one of the best in this country is a target and a process we have just started today.”
Governor Fubara noted with delight the result-oriented approach adopted by the leadership of RSU towards achieving the record of success being celebrated including securing full accreditation for all programmes in the institution despite the challenges.
He said: “Let me commend the VC for his innovation, result-oriented approach to administration of this university. Let me here promise this university community that the grant approved but not released will be released by Monday, December 18, 2023.
“The essence of our commitment to education development is reflected in our 2024 budget where it received the third highest allocation.
“Let me, therefore, assure you that we will disburse a fair share of these resources to address the university’s most critical challenges, including support for the full and effective development of the new campuses, the provision of a stable power supply, the building of student hostels, and effective CCTV coverage to enhance safety and security in the campuses.”
Giving his address, Vice Chancellor of the Rivers State University, Prof Nlerum Okogbule said a total of 6,326 graduands were conferred with first degrees, postgraduate diplomas, Master and Doctor of Philosophy degrees.
Okgbule informed that all 24 programmes in the university have full accreditation, the admission quota for medicine and surgery programme increased from 100 to 200 students, that of nursing and midwife also increased from 50 to 100 and all its four satellites campuses are in good operation.
In his remarks, the Chancellor of the University, Justice Sidi Bage Muhammad 1, who is also the Emir of Lafia Bare-Bari and Chairman of Nasarawa State Council of Chiefs, demanded adequate funding of tertiary institutions to strengthen them undertake researches that address development needs of Nigeria.
