The Alumni Association of the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU) in Bauchi has raised significant concerns regarding a proposed legislative amendment that seeks to reclassify the institution from a technology-focused university to a conventional one. This initiative, sponsored by Senator Shehu Buba of the Bauchi South Senatorial District, has ignited considerable opposition from various stakeholders, including the university's management, staff unions, and notably, the alumni body, all of whom recognize the critical importance of maintaining a strong technological foundation in Africa.
In a statement to the media, Mohammed Wada, the National President of the Alumni Association, underscored a crucial change in the bill: the removal of the term "technology" from the university's establishment Act. Wada asserted that this alteration signifies a troubling shift away from the institution's core identity and mission, which is vital not only for Nigeria but for the broader African continent's technological aspirations.
“This amendment suggests a potential transformation of the institution into a conventional university,” Wada warned, emphasizing that if the National Assembly approves the bill as it stands, it could severely undermine ATBU’s institutional mandate and technical capabilities. He reminded stakeholders that ATBU was established as a specialized center for engineering, applied sciences, and technological innovation, serving as a crucial pillar for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) advancement in northern Nigeria and beyond for decades.
The alumni association further articulated that stripping the university of its technological identity could lead to long-term setbacks for the region and the continent. They cautioned that such a shift could erode essential competencies in applied engineering, innovation-driven research, and scientific development,areas critical for maintaining Africa's competitiveness in an increasingly knowledge-driven global economy.
“This amendment is not simply a minor legislative adjustment; it represents a fundamental reorientation of the university’s purpose,” the association asserted. They warned that the consequences of this move could weaken the entire STEM ecosystem in northern Nigeria and the continent for years to come, potentially stifling future generations of African innovators and engineers.
The alumni's concerns reflect a broader apprehension regarding the future of technical education across Africa. As the global landscape increasingly prioritizes technological advancement and innovation, the reclassification of ATBU could hinder the development of a skilled workforce capable of meeting the demands of a rapidly changing job market, which is essential for the continent's economic independence and growth.
In response to these developments, the Alumni Association of ATBU is calling for a thorough reevaluation of the proposed bill, urging lawmakers to consider the long-term consequences of such a significant change. They advocate for the preservation of the university's technological focus, which they believe is vital for fostering a robust educational environment that can contribute meaningfully to the region's growth and the African continent's overall development.
As the debate unfolds, the alumni body remains vigilant, ready to mobilize support from various stakeholders to ensure that ATBU retains its identity as a leading institution for technological education and innovation, safeguarding the future of Africa’s technological landscape.
