Al-Istiqama University Will Reverse Rural-Urban Migration — Kawu Sumaila
By Ahmad Tijjani Abdul
KANO — The founder of Al-Istiqama University, Sen. Abdulrahman Sulaiman Kawu Sumaila, on Saturday said the institution was deliberately established in rural Sumaila to reverse the growing wave of rural-urban migration through access to quality higher education.
Sen. Kawu Sumaila Kano South who spoke during the combined convocation of the young university, stated that the generations of young people have been forced to leave their communities for cities in search of university education.
He stressed that the trend has weakened rural development while placing enormous pressure on urban infrastructure.
“Our decision to establish an Islamic university in this rural community was deliberate. We want higher education, economic opportunity and development to thrive in our local communities,” Kawu said.
He explained that the university is designed not only to produce graduates but also to create a sustainable knowledge-based economy capable of empowering local youth and stimulating businesses within Sumaila and neighbouring communities.
The senator said bringing a university of international standard to a rural area demonstrates that academic excellence does not have to be concentrated in major cities.
Kawu noted that the institution has evolved from a bold vision into a vibrant centre of learning committed to academic excellence and character development, while remaining rooted in Islamic values.
Quoting the Holy Qur’an, he urged students to pursue knowledge with sincerity and use education as a means of serving humanity and strengthening society.
The founder also expressed appreciation to the university’s governing council, chancellor, vice-chancellor, traditional rulers and regulatory institutions for their unwavering support in building what he described as a transformative institution for northern Nigeria.