Southern Kaduna Professors Condemn Opposition to Establishment of Federal University

The Forum of Southern Kaduna Professors (FOSKAP) has criticized resistance to the establishment of the Federal University of Applied Sciences in Southern Kaduna, arguing that such opposition is unfounded and detrimental to equitable educational development.

Critics of the proposed university cite inadequate federal funding for existing tertiary institutions as a reason to halt its creation. However, FOSKAP strongly disputes this claim. The forum’s chairman, Professor John Gambo Laah, asserted that rejecting the establishment of the university under the pretext of funding challenges will not address the financial struggles of other institutions.

Condemning an editorial published by a national newspaper against the project, Prof. Laah stated, “The funding difficulties faced by Nigerian universities, both public and private, do not justify denying the Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia, a chance to contribute to national development.”

The professors highlighted that arguments against the university, such as claims of underutilized existing institutions, reflect underlying resistance to progress in Southern Kaduna. Prof. Laah encouraged the federal government to dismiss such objections, emphasizing the need for balanced development across the country.

He pointed out that over the past decade, the establishment of new universities in Nigeria has helped address high student-to-staff ratios. Prof. Laah stressed the importance of equal access to education for all Nigerians and criticized the editorial for perpetuating educational inequalities by suggesting that underserved regions remain neglected.

Furthermore, the professor suggested that the arguments against the university were driven by ulterior motives. He called for greater understanding of the challenges faced by the people of Southern Kaduna, describing the region as one of the most underdeveloped in terms of educational opportunities. FOSKAP urged the federal government to prioritize addressing these disparities to ensure inclusive growth.