The Vice Chancellor of the newly established Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia (FUASK), Kaduna state, Prof. William Barnabas Qurix (OFR), has pledged to position the institution as a world-class citadel of learning that will produce graduates well-grounded in various fields of applied sciences.
Prof. Qurix, who resumed duty alongside other principal officers following their inauguration by the Minister of Education, said the university would be built on merit and excellence.
He stressed that only students who earn their admission scores on merit would be admitted.
“Our mission is to train men and women and equip them with knowledge and skills that will drive transformational development and progress. Indeed, progress and development have come to the people. Achieving this requires focus, hard work, partnerships, transnational education, and linkages. We will engage with global institutions to seek meaningful collaborations,” he said.
He expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing him as the pioneer Vice Chancellor and assured of his commitment to the university’s growth.
He also acknowledged the support of key stakeholders, including Vice President Kashim Shettima, Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, Minister of Education Dr. Maruf Alausa, and Senator Sunday Marshall Katung, whom he described as instrumental in the establishment of the institution.
Others he appreciated include Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah, Pro-Chancellor; Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Christopher Musa; Gen. Martin Luther Agwai (CFR); Justice K. B. Akaas (OFR); Dr. Durungwa; Prof. Abubakar Rasheed (MFR); Engr. Andy Yakubu; and Rev. John Hayab.
The Vice Chancellor also thanked the paramount ruler of Kachia, the local government chairman, and the entire community for the warm reception and their commitment to the university’s development.
Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Musa, who was at the university, pledged support for the institution while commending President Tinubu for approving its establishment in Southern Kaduna.
The Chairman of Kachia LGA, Dr. Manzo, and the lawmaker representing Kachia Constituency at the Kaduna State House of Assembly, Hon. Peter Agite, lauded the federal government for setting up both the university and a Federal Medical Centre in the area.
Dr. Manzo assured of the council’s full support for the university’s growth, stressing that it should be seen as a centre of unity.
The Vice Chancellor and his team were however received by traditional rulers, clerics, lawmakers, and community leaders.