University professors, under the umbrella of the Forum of Southern Kaduna Professors (FOSKAP), have condemned the opposition to the creation of the Federal University of Applied Sciences in Southern Kaduna.
Opponents of the university argue that there is insufficient funding for higher education in Nigeria. However, the professors find it unreasonable to claim that the establishment of the Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia, would negatively impact the country.
FOSKAP Chairman, Professor John Gambo Laah, criticized a national newspaper editorial against the university’s establishment, stating that all universities in Nigeria, both public and private, face funding challenges. He argued that halting the creation of the Kachia university would not resolve the nation’s broader funding issues.
The professors rejected claims that the university’s establishment is unnecessary due to underutilization of existing institutions. Prof. Laah pointed out that there has been a steady increase in the number of universities in Nigeria over the past decade, helping to address the high student-to-staff ratio seen in some institutions.
He emphasized that all Nigerians deserve equal educational opportunities and called for the media to address educational discrimination. Prof. Laah expressed concern that the editorial suggested areas like Southern Kaduna, which have few educational institutions, should continue to be neglected due to financial constraints.
He further criticized the opposition to the university as potentially driven by ulterior motives and urged Nigerians to recognize the unique challenges facing Southern Kaduna, the most underserved region in terms of educational infrastructure in the country.
Peoplesmind