Excitement swept through Kachia, Kaduna State, on Monday as the newly established Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia, officially commenced academic lectures, marking a historic milestone for science and technology education in Nigeria.
The once-quiet campus buzzed with activity as pioneer students, lecturers, administrative staff, and traders trooped in for the start of the maiden academic session, barely months after the Federal Government approved the take-off of the country’s first specialised university of applied sciences.
Addressing journalists shortly after welcoming the inaugural students, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Williams Barnabas Qurix, described the commencement of lectures as “a dream fulfilled and a foundation for future scientists and innovators.”
“Today is more than the beginning of lectures; it is the birth of an institution that will drive applied science education and practical research in Nigeria,” he said.
“Our vision is to be globally rated in knowledge, skills, and innovation. Every graduate will leave here with a component of business enterprise and product development.”
Qurix explained that the university’s curriculum was deliberately designed to bridge the gap between theory and practice, with an emphasis on industry partnerships, modern laboratories, and entrepreneurship training.
He added that all students will undertake a discipline-specific Students’ Industrial Work Experience Scheme to deepen practical exposure.
The Vice Chancellor urged the pioneer students to remain focused and disciplined, warning that FUASK has zero tolerance for cultism, fighting, bullying, alcoholism, and any form of misconduct, with penalties ranging from rustication to expulsion.
He disclosed that each department will adopt its own dress code, with the Architecture Department already mandating formal wear for part of the week.
On infrastructure, Qurix said the university is working towards becoming fully ICT-driven, with solar-powered facilities to ensure an uninterrupted electricity supply.
Security, he noted, has been prioritised, with a nearby military base and other measures put in place.
The Vice Chancellor thanked President Bola Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Governor Uba Sani, the Minister of Education, Maruf Tunji Alausa, and the Senator representing Kaduna South Senatorial District, Senator Sunday Katung, whose bill gave birth and legal backing to the institution.
He also acknowledged contributions from prominent individuals, including Bishop Matthew Kukah, the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, and other stakeholders.
National President of the Parents Association of Nigeria, Mr Haruna Danjuma, hailed the university’s take-off as “a huge relief and a promise of brighter opportunities for Nigerian youths,” while pioneer visiting lecturer Prof. Alexander Kure described the project as “both exciting and challenging.”
For students like Bilqees Akunola, a Pharmacy undergraduate from Ogun State, being among the first to enroll is an honour.
“Being a pioneer student is a privilege,” she said. “I look forward to learning in a place where technology and creativity are encouraged.”
Members of the host community expressed optimism that the institution will stimulate local commerce, create jobs, and transform Kachia into an emerging education hub.
PUNCH Online reports that FUASK was established by an Act of Parliament of 2025, following President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s assent into law of the bill sponsored by Senator Katung.
The university inherited the infrastructure of NOK University, which was taken over by the federal government in 2024.
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