
Plateau State University (PLASU), Bokkos, has received approval from regulatory authorities to introduce six new academic programs, marking a significant step in the institution’s efforts to expand its academic portfolio.
In a statement signed by Masara Kim, the Acting Public Relations Officer of the university, and made available to newsmen in Jos, the newly approved programs include degrees in Medical Sciences (MBBS), Pharmaceutical Sciences (Pharm D.), Statistics (B.Sc.), and Religious Studies (B.A.).
The statement further revealed that professional bodies have endorsed the institution’s programs in Law and Nursing Sciences.
The development was announced by the Acting Vice Chancellor and Chairman of the university’s Senate, Professor Shedrack Gaya Best, during the 92nd regular meeting of the Senate.
Prof. Best attributed the achievement to the unwavering support and commitment of Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, to the progress of the university.
“The result is that now we have gotten approval from the National Universities Commission (NUC) for all of these programs,” said Prof. Best.
The NUC granted the university the green light to proceed with the programs following resource verification visits conducted last year to assess PLASU’s level of preparedness.
In addition, the Council of Legal Education and the Nursing Council formally approved the Law and Nursing Science programs, respectively.
Prof. Best expressed his appreciation to the regulatory authorities for their support and commended the state government’s efforts to promote learning at PLASU.
He pledged the university’s commitment to staff welfare, emphasizing its importance in maintaining an effective academic calendar.
“The stability of the academic calendar depends on the quality of academic relationships within the university.
“As long as it is within the purview of the university and the management, there is nothing of a welfare nature that belongs to any union that this management is sitting on.” He said
Prof. Best appealed for patience regarding delays in implementing the new national minimum wage for university staff, noting that the process is ongoing.
“I know that the way to stay in peace with people is to give them what is due to them. That is the principle of management. But some things are of a process nature,” said the Acting VC.
“The minimum wage involves a process. It has commenced for civil servants, but the university is outside the civil service system. However, we are doing our best negotiating with officials at the state level.”
Meanwhile, the Senate also received updates on the resumption of academic activities after the Christmas and New Year breaks.
Efforts to improve campus security were discussed, including the issuance of identification cards and approval of access to hostel accommodations for appropriate categories of students.
The statement further emphasized that PLASU remains committed to providing quality education and fostering a secure and conducive learning environment as it expands its academic offerings.