In a decisive move to address the pressing issue of unemployment, Nile University of Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and innovation among its students. The institution's Vice-Chancellor outlined a comprehensive strategy during its recent convocation ceremony.
A University's Pledge Against Joblessness
Prof. Dilli Dogo, the Vice-Chancellor of Nile University of Nigeria, declared the institution's unwavering focus on combating unemployment through innovative academic programmes. He made this announcement on Thursday in Abuja at the university's 13th Convocation ceremony for postgraduate students.
Prof. Dogo emphasized that in today's economic climate, where traditional employment opportunities are declining, universities must take a leading role. He stressed that their mission is to build innovation and resilience in the youth, preparing them for the realities of a competitive global economy.
Building a Foundation for Entrepreneurial Success
The university's approach is multifaceted. Prof. Dogo detailed that Nile University’s curriculum is intentionally designed to merge rigorous academic theory with practical, hands-on experience. This ensures graduates are not just degree-holders, but job creators and industry-ready professionals.
To support this vision, the university has made significant investments in modern facilities and incubation centres. It has also forged strong industry partnerships to nurture student-led ventures. These structures provide a conducive environment for transforming creative ideas into viable, thriving enterprises.
International Support and Tangible Outcomes
A key highlight of the event was the acknowledgment of international support, particularly from the French Embassy. Prof. Dogo expressed profound gratitude for the embassy's donation of a state-of-the-art fabrication laboratory to the university.
"The French Embassy donated a fabrication laboratory to this university, and that fabrication lab has been used to train trainers from 14 Nigerian universities," Prof. Dogo stated. This initiative builds national capacity, as these trainers will now be equipped to lead similar processes in their own institutions.
The collaboration did not end there. Following the lab's commissioning, the French government further donated a mini-factory to Nile University. This facility is dedicated to processing plastic waste into semi-finished and finished products.
"When it's fully installed, you will have Made in Nigeria, Nile University products on the streets," the Vice-Chancellor said, highlighting the project's potential to mentor young entrepreneurs and translate academic learning into tangible, market-ready goods.
While congratulating the graduating class, Prof. Dogo tasked them to use their acquired skills to create a meaningful impact in society. Echoing this sentiment, the Pro-Chancellor, John Vermaatan, challenged the graduates to become ambassadors of excellence for the university.
Founded in 2009 in Abuja, Nile University is a private multidisciplinary institution. It offers more than 40 undergraduate and 50 postgraduate programmes across eight faculties. A member of Honoris United Universities since 2020, the university is part of Africa's largest private higher-education network, living up to its motto, "Education for Impact."
