FUD to Introduce AI, Data Science, New Health Programmes Under New VC
By Ahmad Tijjani Abdul
KANO – The Federal University Dutse (FUD) is set to introduce new academic programmes in Artificial Intelligence, Data Science and several health-related disciplines as part of a sweeping reform agenda unveiled by its newly appointed Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ahmad Muhammed Gumel.
Professor Gumel, who assumed office as the 3rd substantive Vice-Chancellor of the university, disclosed this during his inauguration ceremony held on Monday at the Nuhu Muhammed Sunusi Auditorium, Dutse.
Speaking at the event, the Vice-Chancellor said the planned programmes—designed to align with national and global labour market demands—will include Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, Data Science and Analytics, Networking and Cloud Computing, Optometry, Physiotherapy, Community Health, as well as Climate-Smart Agriculture, Geology, Project Management, Procurement, Logistics and Supply Chain, Science Education and Business Education.
Gumel said, “We will prioritise academic excellence by revising and modernising our curricula to meet NUC benchmarks and respond to global digital transformation in pedagogy”.
He explained that the introduction of the new courses forms part of an 11-point agenda aimed at consolidating the achievements of the outgoing administration while positioning FUD as a competitive institution in research, innovation and human capital development.
According to him, the university under his leadership will invest heavily in research and innovation, digital transformation, student welfare and empowerment, staff development, financial sustainability, global partnerships, governance and accountability, community engagement and environmental stewardship.
Professor Gumel further articulated his long-term vision for the institution, stating that his goal is to transform FUD into Nigeria’s premier hub for research-driven solutions and innovation by the year 2030.
“Our vision is to make Federal University Dutse a centre of excellence for innovation across agriculture, science, technology, management and the humanities,” he said. “By 2030, we intend that the majority of our graduates will be highly employable and recognised for their creativity and dedication to service.”
The Vice-Chancellor also expressed gratitude to the outgoing VC, Professor Abdulkarim Sabo Mohammed, whom he credited for mentorship and leadership opportunities that contributed to his emergence as Vice-Chancellor.
“I sincerely appreciate Professor Abdulkarim Sabo Mohammed for his guidance and support, which played a critical role in my professional journey,” he noted.
He equally thanked the 4th Governing Council of the university, led by Professor Shuainu Oba Abdul Raheem, for the confidence reposed in him, assuring them of his commitment to delivering on his mandate.
Professor Gumel also acknowledged the support of Jigawa State Governor, Mallam Umar Namadi, as well as the university staff, whom he said stood by him throughout the selection process.
“I am grateful to the Jigawa State Government and the entire FUD community for their unwavering support. I will not disappoint,” he assured.
The ceremony was attended by members of the governing council, university management, academic staff, students, traditional rulers and other stakeholders.