By Tambaya Julius, Abuja

The Nasarawa State University, Keffi over the weekend celebrated its 25th silver jubilee anniversary and combined 8th convocation ceremony, where over 25,000 students were awarded with various academic degrees.

The grand event, held over the weekend at the school main Campus Keffi, was confirmed and honoured with Doctor of Philosophy (PhDs), Master’s degrees, First Degrees, and Postgraduate Diplomas on graduating students across different faculties.

The ceremony also confirmed honorary doctorate degrees on prominent personalities for their contributions to global leadership, business, and development.

Among the prominent personalities honoured were the President of Tanzania, Samia Suluhu Hassan; Abdul Samad Rabiu, Chairman of BUA Group; and Mahmood Ahmad.

The awards recognised their outstanding contributions to global leadership, development, and their roles in advancing socio-economic development both within Africa and globally.

During the ceremony, the Governor of Nasarawa State, Abdullahi Sule, awarded a cash prize of five hundred thousand Naira (N500,000) each to 82 first-class graduates, while the overall best graduating student was awarded N1 million.

The governor explained that the initiative was designed to promote excellence among students and aligns with the state government’s broader agenda of investing in education and human capital development. According to him, recognising academic achievement is essential in inspiring younger generations to pursue excellence.

Sule emphasised that rewarding hard work and dedication would encourage students across the state to strive for distinction in their academic pursuits. He noted that such incentives serve as a catalyst for improved performance and a stronger educational system.

As part of activities marking the institution’s 8th convocation and 25th anniversary celebrations, the governor commissioned several infrastructure projects at the University.

The newly inaugurated projects include the Alumni Secretariat, the Department of Accounting Postgraduate E-Library, as well as the university’s second gate and access road. He commended the university management for its commitment to infrastructural development and academic excellence.

The two-day celebration attracted a wide array of dignitaries from across Nigeria, including Governors, Ambassadors, Vice-chancellors, professors, traditional rulers, Business Men, and key stakeholders in the education sector.

In her address, the Vice-Chancellor of Nasarawa State University, Keffi, Prof. Sa’adatu Hassan Liman, warmly welcomed guests and expressed appreciation to the university’s leadership for their continued support.

She specifically acknowledged the Chancellor, HRH. Shehu Chindo Yamusa the Emir of Keffi, as well as the Pro-Chancellor, Prof. Atahiru Jiga, and members of the governing council for their impactful leadership.

Liman credited the institution’s progress to strong governance and visionary leadership, noting that both staff and students have benefitted from an enabling academic environment.

“I have acquired knowledge and experience in this institution due to impactful and good leadership,” she said.

She further urged students to prioritise their education and draw inspiration from the leadership and values upheld by the university. According to her, such commitment is essential for contributing meaningfully to Nigeria’s academic advancement and global competitiveness.

“Apply your knowledge positively, contributing to the advancement and educational success of Nigeria and the global community,” she appealed.

The West African Examinations Council has released the official timetable for the 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination for school candidates.

According to the final international timetable published on WAEC’s official X handle on Monday, the examination will commence on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, and end on Friday, June 19, 2026.

The council said the examination will begin with Foods and Nutrition 3 (Practical) Planning Session and Home Management 3 (Practical) Planning Session.

WASSCE serves as a critical qualification that secondary school students must pass to gain admission into university and other tertiary institutions.

The exam covers core subjects such as English Language and Mathematics, as well as a wide range of elective papers in sciences, arts, humanities, and vocational/technical areas.

It takes place across WAEC’s member countries, including Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia, Sierra Leone, and The Gambia.

An Information and Communication Technology (ICT) expert, Abiona Solomon, has cautioned students against over-reliance on Artificial Intelligence (AI), urging them to embrace practice and independent thinking in their academic work.

Solomon, the Chief Executive Officer of Solo InfoTech, gave the advice on Saturday in Ilorin during an interview.

He said that many students depend heavily on AI tools to handle their research and class assignments, a trend he noted was discouraging critical thinking.

According to him, the growing use of AI has made some students reluctant to engage their intellect, thereby promoting laziness.

“Many students now look for shortcuts to complete their tasks and no longer challenge themselves intellectually because of the availability of AI.

“This trend cuts across all levels of education, as students increasingly rely on AI instead of making efforts to think independently.

“Students should be encouraged to be self-reliant and always attempt solving problems on their own before turning to AI.

 “Over-dependence on AI can weaken their ability to think critically,” he said.

Solomon, however, acknowledged that AI remains a valuable tool for learning, noting that it is vast and makes research easier.

He added that AI has simplified academic work and exposed students to global developments.

The expert, therefore, advised students to use AI responsibly and not abuse its benefits.