Billionaire businessman Aliko Dangote has announced a N15 billion development plan for the Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology in Wudil, Kano State.
Dangote, who is also the Chancellor of the university, made this known on Saturday during the school’s 5th combined convocation ceremony. The event also marked his second investiture as Chancellor.
He said the money, which will be handled through the Dangote Foundation, will be used to improve the university’s facilities.
According to him, the plan will cover the construction of new student hostels, a world-class engineering laboratory, a modern computer lab with 24-hour internet service, and a befitting senate building.
Dangote also promised that the best graduating students from the university would receive automatic employment in any of his companies across Nigeria.
“We are investing in education because it is the foundation of any nation’s growth. Our goal is to help produce the next generation of engineers, scientists, and leaders,” he said.
The university’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Musa Yakasai, shared that over 18,000 students from seven graduating sets were receiving their degrees and diplomas. He said 2,950 of them were postgraduate students.
The Governor of Kano State, Abba Yusuf, who is also the Visitor to the university, promised to complete all ongoing projects started by the previous government to support the school’s growth.
“We are committed to completing all ongoing projects to help the university reach greater heights,” the governor said.
Also, five distinguished Nigerians were given Honorary Doctorate Degrees for their contributions to society.
They include:
- Senator Rabi’u Kwankwaso
- Alhaji Dahiru Barau Mangal
- Dr. Ahmed Adeniyi Raji, SAN
- Prince Arthur Eze
- Alhaji Mustapha Ado Muhammad
Speaking on behalf of the awardees, Senator Kwankwaso thanked the university for the honour and advised the graduating students to represent the school well.
“Be proud of your achievements and always act as good ambassadors of this great institution,” he told them.
