At the 31st and 32nd convocation ceremony of the Federal University of Technology Minna, a remarkable event unfolded.
Abdulhakam Aminu, a graduate in mechanical engineering, stood out as the overall best graduating student, achieving an impressive CGPA of 4.91.
His pursuit of academic excellence was deeply rooted in the unwavering support and educational efforts of his father, a staff sergeant in the Nigerian Army, currently serving on the frontlines in the fight against insurgents in the North East.
A total of 7,312 graduating students were honored with first degrees from the academic sessions spanning 2020/2021 and 2022/2023.
This diverse group of scholars reflects the university’s commitment to fostering educational growth and success.
The prestigious occasion was graced by the presence of the university’s Visitor, President Bola Tinubu, who, unfortunately, couldn’t attend in person.
Professor Chinedum Nwajiuba represented the president and conveyed the federal government’s dedication to supporting education in Nigeria.
Notably, the introduction of student loans was highlighted as a step towards making education more accessible.
The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Farouq Kuta, took a moment to acknowledge the challenges and uncertainties faced by the institution.
Despite these obstacles, he emphasized the university’s unwavering commitment to maintaining high standards of academic excellence. This dedication serves as a beacon, guiding the institution through various trials.
The Deputy Governor of Niger State, Yakubu Garba, represented the state governor and expressed assurance of a collaborative partnership between the state government and the university.
This partnership is intended to focus on areas such as mechanized farming and seed production, fostering growth beyond academic realms.
The assurance of student loans from President Tinubu is expected to have a significant impact on the educational landscape, particularly for indigent students.
This financial support aims to empower more students to successfully complete their tertiary education, opening doors to a brighter future for those who might otherwise face financial barriers.
The convocation ceremony not only celebrated the academic achievements of Abdulhakam Aminu and his fellow graduates but also showcased the collective commitment of the university, government, and state towards creating an environment conducive to learning and success.