By Muhammad Nasir
The Vice-Chancellor of Sokoto State University, Prof. Mohammed Yerima, says no fewer than 6,000 graduates will be awarded degrees during the institution’s 8th combined convocation ceremony scheduled for Saturday.
Yerima disclosed this on Monday during the university’s pre-convocation press conference in Sokoto.
The Vice-Chencellor said the graduating students were drawn from the university’s five faculties.
He added that the convocation would also feature the conferment of honorary doctorate degrees on distinguished individuals in recognition of their contributions to educational and socio-economic development in Sokoto, Zamfara and Kebbi states, as well as other parts of the country.
Yerima commended the Sokoto State Governor and Visitor to the university, Ahmed Aliyu, for his sustained moral and financial support to the institution.
According to him, the governor demonstrated his commitment by approving additional funds for the convocation after reviewing the proposed budget.
“He saw the budget for this convocation ceremony and instantly increased the allocation by several millions of naira.
“The governor has indeed remained a true father and benefactor to Sokoto State University, and we will always cherish his support,” Yerima said.
He also lauded the university’s founder, Sen. Aliyu Wamakko, for his continued support, particularly the ongoing expansion of the university library through one of his constituency projects.
“His magnanimity in executing the library expansion project, which is nearing completion, is highly commendable,” he said.
Speaking on his vision for the institution, Yerima said the university aims to become a leading hub for entrepreneurship over the next 10 years.
He noted that the state government had mandated the university to produce graduates equipped to create jobs rather than depend solely on paid employment.
“The state government has given us a clear mandate to produce students who will become job creators and not just job seekers,” he said.
The Vice-Chancellor also praised the university’s management and staff for their dedication, resilience and teamwork, attributing the institution’s achievements to their unwavering commitment.
