Kalu: Bill to Convert MOUAU to Conventional University Passes Second Reading

The bill to convert Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU), into a conventional university passed a second reading yesterday, marking a crucial step in the transformation of the institution.

The bill, which was introduced by Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu consists of 31 sections spread across four parts and a schedule, designed to broaden the scope of MOUAU beyond its current focus on agricultural sciences.

The bill also includes provisions for the establishment and composition of the university, its statutes, supervision and discipline, as well as miscellaneous and general provisions.

Speaking on the bill in a post on social media on Friday, Hon. Kalu emphasized the importance of diversifying the university’s offerings to include programs in Arts, Medicine, Law, Social Sciences, and Humanities. “MOUAU has already made significant contributions to Nigeria’s agricultural development, but with this transformation, it will be positioned to offer a wider range of academic disciplines. This expansion will not only benefit Abia State but will have a far-reaching impact on the nation’s educational landscape,” Kalu said.

The proposed transformation is expected to attract a larger and more diverse student population, fostering a more inclusive learning environment and further enhancing the university’s reputation.

The new programs would provide students from various academic and cultural backgrounds the opportunity to pursue higher education at the institution, which has long been a hub for agricultural science.

The Deputy Speaker expressed confidence that, with the support of his colleagues, the bill would receive the necessary legislative approval. He stressed that the proposed changes would serve as a catalyst for educational advancement in Nigeria, supporting the country’s broader goals for growth and development.

If the bill is passed into law, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture will undergo a significant evolution, moving from a specialized institution to a comprehensive university with the capacity to offer a wide range of programs that cater to the diverse needs of students in the 21st century.

Peoplesmind