The management of Nasarawa State University Keffi (NSUK) has responded to recent criticism surrounding its postgraduate output, rejecting claims that its programmes are being commercialised.
In a statement signed by Jaafar Abdullahi Abubakar, anipr, Acting Information and Protocol Officer of the university, the institution said its recent Silver Jubilee Convocation, during which 32,884 students were graduated across three academic sessions, should not be misrepresented.
The figure includes 1,677 PhD graduates, 8,169 master’s degree holders, 2,809 postgraduate diploma recipients, and 20,229 first-degree graduates.
The university stated that its expansion in postgraduate admissions is part of efforts to widen access to higher education while maintaining academic procedures.
“NSUK has deliberately created pathways for qualified scholars, professionals, and public servants to pursue advanced degrees without sacrificing standards,” the statement said.
Addressing concerns about quality, the management outlined the processes involved in doctoral training, including admission screening, proposal defence, progress evaluations, external examination, and final oral defence.
“These processes are rigorous, evidence-based, and subject to review at departmental, faculty, and Senate levels,” it stated.
The university also noted that external examiners from other institutions are involved in the assessment of postgraduate theses to ensure credibility.
On research output, NSUK said its doctoral programmes focus on areas such as public health, agriculture, conflict resolution, and education, with the aim of addressing societal challenges.
It added that collaborations and participation in academic activities outside Nigeria contribute to the development of its postgraduate system.
The management further acknowledged ongoing debates around access and standards in higher education, but cautioned against what it described as inaccurate interpretations of its academic activities.
“Constructive criticism is welcome in academia. Misrepresentation is not,” the statement said.
NSUK maintained that its postgraduate system operates within established academic structures and reiterated its commitment to academic standards.
The statement comes amid wider discussions on the growth of postgraduate education in Nigeria and concerns over quality assurance in the sector.
