House Moves To Transform Michael Okpara Varsity To Conventional Varsity

The House of Representatives has passed through second reading a Bill seeking for an Act to transform the already existing Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike into a conventional university.

The proposed legislation titled, “Bill seeking for an Act to Establish the Michael Okpara University, Umudike to make Comprehensive Provisions for its Due Management and Administration and for Related Matters,” was sponsored by the Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu and six other lawmakers.

Leading the debate on its general principles, one of the co-sponsors, Kelechi Nwogu recalled that the University was established in November 1992 as a specialised University for Agriculture and related sciences pursuant to the Federal Universities of Agriculture Act, Cap F22, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.

He said however, that there is a need to transform the university into a conventional university to expand its mandate.

According to the lawmaker, a conventional university status would encourage interdisciplinary research, enabling more collaborations between agriculture and other fields such as engineering, health sciences, and social sciences.

Explaining further, he said integrating agricultural studies with engineering could lead to innovations in mechanized farming, while partnerships with health sciences could enhance research into nutritional science and food security.

He expressed optimism that transitioning Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, into a conventional university would bring diversification of academic programs, enhanced research opportunities, increased funding, and improved global recognition.

He said, “As an institution primarily focused on agricultural sciences, MOUAU has already contributed significantly to Nigeria’s agricultural development.”

“Transitioning to a conventional university would allow the institution to introduce programs in fields such as Arts, Medicine, Law, Social Sciences and Humanities.

“This diversification would attract a larger and more varied student population, ensuring that MOUAU becomes a hub for learners from different academic and cultural backgrounds.”

“By offering programs in emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and environmental sciences, the university could prepare students for the demands of a rapidly evolving job market.”

Thereafter the Bill was put to a voice vote by the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, who presided over the session, passed and referred to the Committee on University Education.

Oduyemi Odumade, Edited By Grace Namiji