The Federal University, Gashua, in Yobe State has begun a three-day retreat for the development of its 2026–2031 Strategic Development Plan.

Speaking at the occasion in Gashua on Thursday, FUGA Vice Chancellor, Yaquob Geidam, described the retreat as a foundational exercise that would shape the future identity, priorities, and direction of the university.

He noted that since he became the vice chancellor in February, he had undertaken a broad assessment of the institution, engaging stakeholders and evaluating both human and financial resources.

Mr Geidam emphasised that the development of a strategic plan within his first 100 days in office was a deliberate move to provide clear direction and position the university for excellence.

“Federal University Gashua stands today at a defining moment in its development trajectory, highlighting the institution’s unique role in expanding access to quality education and addressing environmental, economic, and social challenges, particularly within the Sahel region,” he said.

The vice chancellor outlined key priority areas in the plan’s development to include biotechnology, information technology, cybersecurity, software engineering, entrepreneurship and Islamic banking and finance.

Mr Geidam said the plan would also feature modern learning management and environmental sustainability, underscoring the importance of the FUGA Green Code initiative as a central pillar of the university’s identity, given its location in a fragile ecological zone.

He urged participants to engage actively, contribute innovative ideas, and approach the assignment with diligence and a shared sense of purpose.

The vice-chancellor further emphasised inclusivity in the planning process, noting that the success of the strategic plan would depend on the extent to which it reflects the collective aspirations of stakeholders.

The participants of the retreat included a former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Maiduguri, J.D. Amin, and Aliyu Kantudu of the Virtual Institute for Capacity Building in Higher Education, among others.

(NAN)