The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has directed educational institutions in the country to offer entrepreneurial courses and skill development programs to help their students become self-sufficient in their products.
This comes as the Abia State Government has urged private universities operating in the state not to compromise standards.
Prof Ishaq Olyede, JAMB Registrar, stated during a one-day Stakeholders’ Forum of Amadeus University, Amizi in Ikwuano Local Government Area of Abia State, that society was in desperate need of job creators rather than job seekers.
“We envision a university that would not only educate but also inspire; we envision a place where students would be turned to leaders, entrepreneurs and change makers; a place that will not be reckoned with cultists, notorious boys and girls; a place where ideas will be formed and dreams realised,” according to him.
The JAMB chairman, who stated that Amadues University has received the essential clearances and licenses to operate as a private university, committed to collaborate with the school.
Prof. Olyede, who was represented by the Abia State Coordinator of JAMB, Juliet Anikwe, stated that Amadeus University is NUC approved and accredited, JAMB approved, JAMB accredited, and enjoys JAMB partnership.
He expressed hope that the university would fulfil its main mission. At the Forum, Abia State Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Prof. Eme Uche Eme, emphasised the importance of adhering to existing norms and improving the education system.
She tasked the newly founded institution, which is set to launch in September, to play a significant role in the ongoing transformation of the Alex Otti-led administration, which has surpassed the 25% budgetary criterion for Education for the first time in state history.
Prof. Eme stated that the state is committed to sustaining the finest educational standards at all levels.
“As we look ahead to the official commencement of academic activities in September 2024, I want to emphasise we are committed to upholding the highest standards of education” .
The Commissioner advised Amadeus University’s management to hire qualified professionals, particularly lecturers who have time for students, to maintain a zero-tolerance policy for cultism and other anti-social practices, and to provide 24-hour security.
She praised the Founder for founding the university, which she believes “represents an investment in the future of youths and the advancement of education.
“Amadues University is more than just another addition to our educational landscape; it is a beacon of hope and a sign of our commitment to making world-class education accessible to everyone.
“With a focus on innovative teaching methods, cutting edge research and community engagement, Amadeus University is expected to become a hub for intellectual and professional development,” said the Commissioner of Revenue.
She vowed that the government will assist the university’s success.
In his remarks, Vice Chancellor Prof. Samuel Nzotta informed the Forum that the university was completely prepared to begin academic activities in September. He stated that the university was founded “with a clear vision of producing globally competitive and practically orientated graduates who will positively impact societal sustainable development.”
He further stated that the college had received full accreditation for 19 programmes across 13 Departments and four faculties.
“The university is positioned to be a global brand and shall provide opportunities for the students to become visionary, skilled and development-oriented leaders with innovative and entrepreneurship orientation” , the institution’s vice president stated.
Speaking also, former Vice Chancellor of the University of Uyo, who also served as Chairman of the National Universities Commission’s (NUC) Standing Committee on Private Universities, expressed pleasure with the institution’s amenities.
His Royal Highness, Eze Ozo Ananaba, Traditional Ruler of the Amizi Autonomous Community, guaranteed the host community’s entire support and cooperation.
“Our community will do everything that is expected of them. “We are grateful that this university is sited on our soil by our silent achiever son,” the king added.
Bottom Line
By focusing on entrepreneurship and skill development, the directive aims to tackle the high unemployment rates among graduates in Nigeria. Equipping students with entrepreneurial skills can help them become job creators rather than job seekers, which is crucial for economic growth and sustainability.
Integrating entrepreneurial courses into the curriculum ensures that education remains relevant to the current job market demands.
This approach not only enhances students’ employability but also prepares them to navigate the complexities of the modern economy effectively.
