Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umar Radda, has approved automatic employment for the overall best graduating students of Umaru Musa Yar’adua University, Katsina, upon completion of their National Youth Service Corps.

He announced the decision on Saturday while speaking at the 14th convocation ceremony of the university, where he was also conferred with an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Public Administration.

“This is to reward excellence and encourage our students to strive for the highest standards in their academic pursuits,” the governor said.

He directed the Head of Service to immediately identify and p rocess the employment of the beneficiaries, stressing that merit and academic excellence must be recognised and rewarded.

Radda urged graduating students to uphold integrity, innovation, and service to society, describing education as a tool for solving societal challenges. “Be ambassadors of this university and of Katsina State. Use your knowledge to uplift communities and make a positive difference wherever you find yourselves”.

In further incentives aimed at motivating academic excellence, the governor approved a ₦100,000 cash award for the best graduating students across all departments, while the overall best graduate will receive a brand-new vehicle.

He also announced the release of funds for programme accreditation to meet national and international standards and approved a salary increase for both academic and non-academic staff of the university. “Our government will continue to strengthen UMYU as a centre of learning, character, and service to humanity”.

Katsina gov approves automatic employment for best varsity graduates

Earlier, the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Shehu Salihu Muhammad, disclosed that UMYU has grown from about 1,000 students to over 20,000, with 117 undergraduate and postgraduate programmes currently running.

He congratulated the 2,682 graduands, including 31 First Class degree holders, and commended the governor for prompt salary payments and sustained support for the institution.

Also speaking, the Chancellor of the university, Senator Ibrahim Ida (Wazirin Katsina), described the convocation as a celebration of hard work and perseverance, while urging graduates to contribute positively to society.

The Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Senator Hadi Abubakar Sirika, reaffirmed the council’s commitment to expanding access to education and repositioning the university for global competitiveness.

The convocation ceremony was attended by top government officials, lawmakers, traditional rulers, academics, and other dignitaries from within and outside the State. (The PUNCH)