Kwararafa University Awards Doctorate Degrees to Former NNPC MD, Monarch, Kente

From Faruk Magaji, Jalingo 
 
Kwararafa University Wukari, Taraba State, has conferred honorary doctorate degrees on a former group Managing Director of the Nigeria National Petroleum Company (NNPC), Andrew Yakubu, the Attah-Igala, Mathew Oguche, and a former director of finance of the National Assembly, David Kente.

The conferment of the degrees was held on Saturday at the premises of the university during the 2nd combined 2017-2024 convocations of the university.

Mr. Yakubu, a former Managing Director of NNPC, now NNPCL, was conferred with a Doctor of Science degree; Oguche was awarded a Doctor of Letters degree; and Mr. Kente was awarded an honorary Doctor of Public Service.
In his remarks, Mr. Yakubu, who is also the Pro Chancellor of the institution, said he is proud to be a descendant of the great Kwararafa Kingdom.

He urged the graduates to be proud of being products of the first Africa Community University with rich cultural history.

Yakubu, however, announced a  donation of N10 million for the establishment of a department in the university for the study of Kwararafa history.

Also speaking, Mr. Kente, who has contributed a lot to the development of the university, appealed to other descendants of the dynasty across the country to join hands in uplifting the university, which is the only community university in Taraba State.
 
The vice chancellor of the university, professor Shishi Zhema, apologised in an address for the delay in holding convocation.

He said, “Today’s event is a historic moment, as it marks only the second convocation in the university’s life since our last in March 2017.
 
“We recognise the delays some of our graduates faced in receiving their original certificates, and I deeply apologise for these setbacks. 
 
He said the convocation covered eight graduating sets, adding that the university was committed to holding future convocations annually to ensure that the graduates receive the recognition they deserve promptly. 
 
“The university is committed to improving its processes and upholding its promise of providing quality education and a streamlined experience for our students,” the VC said.

Professor Zhema stated that since he took over the mantle of leadership, he has been working with his management towards enhancing the university’s policies and vision. 
 
He reaffirmed his commitment to building on his predecessor, the former vice chancellor of the university.Strong foundation; we have introduced new policies and improvements aimed at continuous development,” he further stated. 

Professor Zhema also disclosed that the National Universities Commission has approved accreditation for all academic programs being offered in the university.

“Today, we celebrate the remarkable achievements of our students. It is with great pride that I announce the success of 26 students who have attained the prestigious First Class Honours across our three colleges, with nine of them set to receive the university’s prestigious awards,” he said.