The new Federal University of Technology, Babura in Jigawa State, has matriculated 550 students, among them 39 females, as it admits the second set of students since its establishment.

The Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Sabo Ibrahim-Birninkudu, said on Saturday that the students would study courses on Engineering and Technology, and Information and Communication Technology.

He said that the pioneer students admitted during the last academic session were 401, thus raising the students’ population to 951.

The VC advised the students to uphold the oath of matriculation administered on them, and abide by the rules and regulations governing their stay in the school.

“Your parents have made a lot of sacrifices to hand you over to your lecturers, who are expected to mould you into model citizens, into men and women who are skilled in knowledge and would be leaders of a better tomorrow. Your parents expect you to work hard on your academic studies by prompt attendance to lectures, diligently carrying out practicals, group work and assignments or field work.

“You must therefore avoid all distractions especially social media and anti-social behaviour; while upholding good conduct throughout your years of studies. For instance, decent dressing and keeping company with fellow hard working students brings respect and peace of mind as immediate rewards,” Mr Ibrahim-Birninkudu said.

He warned them against deviant behaviours, which he said would attract severe penalties.

The VC said the new university was battling teething problems, including transportation and infrastructural deficit.

He therefore called for more support to the university by all key stakeholders, including the private sector, to address the challenges.

The VC said that the university would welcome intervention in the provision of buses, boreholes, office and residential buildings, internal roads, and workshop equipment, among others.

Mr Ibrahim-Birninkudu assured that donations would be put to judicious use to ease the teething challenges of the young institution.

The event was attended by Minister of Defence, Badaru Abubakar, Jigawa State governor, Umar Namadi, Emir of Dutse, Hamim Nuhu, Emir of Ringim, Sayyadi Mahmud, and some vice chancellors. among others.

(NAN)