As NUC Approves Affiliated Degree Programmes For Waziri Umaru FedPoly
By: Malam Sidi
In a significant stride towards expanding its academic offerings, Waziri Umaru Federal Polytechnic, Birnin Kebbi (WUFPBK), has received approval from the National Universities Commission (NUC) to commence a range of degree programmes affiliated with the Federal University Birnin Kebbi (FUBK). This approval marks a pivotal moment in the institution’s history and signals a new era of academic advancement and higher learning for students in the region. The approved programmes, slated to begin in the 2024/2025 academic session, include B.Sc Accounting, B.Sc Business Administration, B.Sc Microbiology, B.Sc Statistics, B.Sc Computer Science, B.Sc Architecture, and B.Sc Building.
These degree programmes are designed to address the growing demand for higher education in various fields, offering students in Kebbi State and catchment areas the opportunity to pursue quality education without needing to relocate to distant cities. This milestone affirms the institution’s commitment to enhancing its academic profile and expanding opportunities for its students and the community.
Waziri Umaru Federal Polytechnic is widely regarded as one of the best Polytechnics in Northern Nigeria, based on its academic standard, staff strength, and modern facilities. The institution boasts more than 80 PhD holders across its departments, positioning WUFPBK as a leader in technical and vocational education within the region. This wealth of academic expertise, combined with cutting-edge research initiatives, makes the polytechnic a hub for innovation and practical learning.
The Polytechnic’s modern equipment and state-of-the-art laboratories further enhance the student experience by providing practical, hands-on training crucial in today’s competitive job market. These facilities, coupled with a strong emphasis on research and innovation, have enabled WUFPBK to maintain high academic standards and produce graduates who excel in their respective fields.
The approval from the NUC is not merely a routine institutional development but a reflection of years of planning, dedication, and hard work. It is also one of the many achievements brought by the visionary leadership of its Rector, Dr. Usman Sani Tunga. Known for his relentless drive for innovation and research, Dr. Tunga has been at the forefront of upgrading the polytechnic’s academic standing and ensuring its competitiveness within Nigeria’s higher education landscape.
Under Dr. Tunga’s leadership, WUFPBK has made remarkable progress in upgrading its facilities, recruiting top-tier faculty, and promoting research initiatives. His leadership has transformed the institution, which is now ranked among the best polytechnics in Africa. This latest achievement—affiliation with FUBK and the subsequent NUC approval—underscores his commitment to providing students with access to high-quality education that meets international standards.
The introduction of these degree programmes is expected to attract a diverse pool of students eager to enroll in competitive courses that will prepare them for the rapidly evolving job market. Additionally, the affiliation with FUBK ensures that students graduating from these programmes will receive degrees recognized both nationally and internationally, giving them a competitive edge in their chosen fields.
Affiliation with a university like FUBK offers numerous benefits to Waziri Umaru Federal Polytechnic and its students. The collaboration ensures that the degree programmes adhere to the academic standards set by the university, which in turn align with the requirements of the NUC. This affiliation will not only boost the institution’s credibility but also foster a culture of academic rigor and excellence.
Moreover, the affiliation allows WUFPBK to leverage FUBK’s resources, such as access to experienced faculty members, collaborative research opportunities, and potential funding for academic projects. This symbiotic relationship strengthens both institutions, allowing them to complement each other’s strengths and enhance the overall quality of education provided to students.
For students, the benefits are equally profound. Enrolling in an affiliated programme means they will earn a degree from FUBK, a full-fledged university, while attending classes at the polytechnic. This offers students the convenience of pursuing a university education without having to travel far from home, reducing the cost and logistical challenges often associated with attending university in another town.
The affiliation also facilitates the exchange of ideas and knowledge between the faculty members of both institutions, enhancing the quality of teaching and research. For students, this translates into a more enriching academic experience, as they will be exposed to a broader range of expertise and academic resources.
Nigeria’s demand for higher education continues to rise, with an increasing number of secondary school graduates seeking university degrees. However, the availability of spaces in existing universities has not kept pace with this growing demand. Many universities in Nigeria are often oversubscribed, leading to fierce competition for admission slots. This is where institutions like Waziri Umaru Federal Polytechnic play a crucial role. This affiliation is expected to bridge the gap between demand and supply in higher education. The approved programmes provide an alternative route for students eager to pursue degree-level education but who may not have gained admission directly into a University. This also supports the federal government’s efforts to increase access to higher education across the country.
The degree programmes cover a wide range of disciplines critical to Nigeria’s socio-economic development. For instance, B.Sc Accounting and B.Sc Business Administration will equip students with the skills needed to thrive in the nation’s growing business and financial sectors. B.Sc Computer Science and B.Sc Statistics address the increasing reliance on technology and data across industries, while B.Sc Microbiology, B.Sc Architecture, and B.Sc Building are essential for contributing to the country’s infrastructure and health sectors.
As preparations for the 2024/2025 academic session are already underway, Waziri Umaru Federal Polytechnic is poised to cement its reputation as a center of academic excellence. This development opens new pathways for students and underscores the institution’s pivotal role in the growth and development of the region.
Undisputedly, the approval by the NUC for WUFPBK and FUBK to offer degree programmes signifies a transformative milestone in the institution`s academic trajectory. It equally extols the strategic vision and leadership qualities of Dr. Tunga, whose commitment to academic rigor and quality education since the time he assumed office as Rector positioned the institution at the forefront in innovations and quality education.
Sidi writes from Birnin Kebbi
