Major Security Boost for ESUT as Fencing Project Finally Begins
The Enugu State Government has officially commenced the long-awaited fencing of Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) at its Agbani permanent site, marking a significant milestone nineteen years after the institution relocated to Nkanu West Local Government Area.
Governor Mbah's N1.4 Billion Security Investment
Vice-Chancellor Professor Aloysius-Michaels Okolie confirmed this development, revealing that Governor Peter Mbah's administration has allocated approximately N1.4 billion for the comprehensive perimeter fencing project. He emphasized that securing the campus would preserve the university's dignity and enable more effective operations.
Professor Okolie explained the urgent need for this intervention, noting that despite initial provisions for staff accommodation, security concerns have kept these houses empty for years. University staff have continued commuting from Enugu urban area, significantly hindering the institution's growth and development aspirations.
"We are hopeful that when the fencing is completed, it will help restore some of the things that are lacking in this school," Okolie stated. "We have facilities that should be mounted, but we cannot because you cannot guarantee their security and what have you."
Comprehensive Infrastructure Development
The fencing project represents just one component of Governor Mbah's broader initiative to reposition ESUT. The Vice-Chancellor highlighted additional substantial investments including:
- Over N10 billion released for equipping the Nursing and Midwifery laboratory
- Fully equipped entrepreneurship centre
- New toilet facilities and additional CBT centre seats at Colliery hospital
- Construction of twin 6-storey buildings for offices, radiology/laboratory complex, hostels, and lecture halls at the teaching hospital
Academic Achievements and Student Support
During the university's 21st convocation ceremony, Professor Okolie praised the federal government's Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), which has provided substantial support to ESUT students. Despite initial processing challenges, the scheme has disbursed over N107 million to assist numerous students with their educational expenses.
The Vice-Chancellor expressed concern that many eligible students haven't yet accessed the loan program and encouraged them to take advantage of this opportunity to meet their academic financial needs.
This year's convocation celebrated 7,991 graduands across various academic levels:
- 6,625 first degree recipients
- 212 postgraduate diplomas
- 720 Master's degrees
- 434 Doctorate degrees
Academic excellence was prominently displayed with 14 first class honours, 1,646 second class upper divisions, 4,619 second class lower divisions, 113 third class honours, and 233 pass degrees awarded.
International Recognition and Future Prospects
ESUT has gained international recognition as a beneficiary of the prestigious European Union-funded ERASMUS capacity building project in higher education. The institution will offer a "Master of Science in Smart Farming and IoT in Agriculture," positioning it at the forefront of agricultural technology education in Nigeria.
Addressing accommodation challenges, Professor Okolie noted that his administration is actively working with private investors to develop additional student housing facilities, further enhancing the university's infrastructure and student experience.
