President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has signed into law three significant education bills sponsored by the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu. The new laws establish the Federal College of Education, Bende; the Federal University of Medical and Health Sciences, Item, both in Abia State; and the Federal University, Okigwe, in Imo State.
The institutions are expected to enhance access to quality education and research opportunities while addressing the educational needs of the South East region.
The Federal College of Education, Bende will run full-time academic programs in technology, applied sciences, commerce, arts, social sciences, humanities, and management. It will also focus on research and the development of practical techniques, while provisions have been made for the appointment of a provost and other key officials for effective administration and student discipline.
Similarly, the Federal University of Medical and Health Sciences, Item, will offer undergraduate and postgraduate training in medical and health-related fields. The university will engage in advanced research in medical sciences, health policy, and healthcare delivery, contributing to improved health outcomes and service delivery in Nigeria.
The Federal University, Okigwe, will serve as another vital hub for academic excellence, expanding higher education access and research opportunities for students in the region.
Reacting to the development, Hon. Benjamin Kalu expressed deep appreciation to President Tinubu for assenting to the bills. He also thanked the Senate, his colleagues in the House of Representatives, and Nigerians for their overwhelming support throughout the legislative process.
Kalu described the establishment of the institutions as a “major milestone” in advancing education and development in the South East, and he called on the people of the region to continue supporting the Tinubu-led administration, assuring them of more democratic dividends to come.
