Education Must Go Beyond Degree Awards - SAZU VC, Prof. Fatimah Tahir Says

By: Monday Danladi, Bauchi

Vice Chancellor of Sa’adu Zungur University (SAZU), Professor Fatimah Tahir, has expressed readiness of the institution to transforming lives of the students beyond awarding degrees in order to make them more relevant to the societal development.

The Vice Chancellor made the declaration at Career Service Training for 1,000 students in Gadau and Yuli campuses, which was organised by the Directorate of Human Resource and Career Development of Sa’adu Zungur University, in collaboration with TETFund Career Service Intervention (2025), and AWS Global Technology.

The training themed: “From Campus to Career; Employability Skills Training Programme”, was aimed at providing the students with knowledge, tools, and confidence needed to make informed career decisions, secure internship opportunities, and compete successfully for employment after graduation.

According to the Vice-Chancellor, the University’s mandates goes beyond just awarding degrees, but nurturing the students that will make meaningful impact to the economic development of the country.

“Our responsibility is to nurture graduate who possess the knowledge, skills, values, and confidence to contribute meaningfully to society, create employment where necessary, and compete successfully in an ever-evolving global economy,” She said.

Fatima Tahir added that this initiative reflects the University’s commitment to producing graduates who are not only academically accomplished but also career-ready and globally competitive.

She therefore encouraged the students to begin planning their careers while still in the university, saying, “The knowledge and practical skills you acquire today – whether in writing a professional resume, succeeding in interviews, understanding your career strengths, or building professional networks – will complement your achievements and position you for success after graduation.”

She then commended the Directorate of Human Resource and Career Development for its foresight, dedication, and commitment to providing the students with valuable career guidance and support.

The VC also appreciated Tertiary Education Trust Fund TETFund for sponsoring the program and other supports given to the university.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Director of the Centre, Dr Wasilu Suleiman said the program was carefully designed to help bridge the gap between classroom learning and workplace expectations.

He said, “While academic qualifications remain important, employers increasingly seek graduates with strong communication skills, critical thinking abilities, teamwork, adaptability, leadership potential, and problem-solving competence.”

He however reaffirmed that beyond certificate of participation, the knowledge and experience gained will be invaluable to the students as they prepare for life after university.

1,000 students – 500 from Gadau Main Campus and 500 from Yuli Campus – participated in the training.