Governor Dikko Radda of Katsina State has announced an upward salary review for both academic and non-academic staff of the Umaru Musa Yar’adua University.

Mr Radda announced this during the university’s 14th convocation ceremony on Saturday in Katsina, where he was also conferred with an honorary doctorate degree in public administration.

The governor described the salary increment as a token of appreciation for their dedication and hard work, pledging further support for the university to achieve excellence, discipline, and service to humanity.

Congratulating the graduating students for their achievements, Mr Radda urged them to uphold integrity, innovation, and selfless service in their future endeavours.

“Be worthy ambassadors of this university and of Katsina State. Use your knowledge to solve problems, uplift communities, and make a positive difference wherever you go,” he advised.

Mr Radda announced automatic employment for the overall best graduating students upon completion of their National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), directing the head of service to immediately identify and process eligible beneficiaries.

The governor also approved a ₦100,000 cash award for the best graduating students across all departments, while the overall best graduate would receive a brand-new vehicle as a reward for exceptional performance.

Further demonstrating his administration’s commitment to education, Mr Radda disclosed that funds had been released for programmes’ accreditation to ensure compliance with extant national and international standards.

Earlier, the university’s chancellor, Ibrahim Idah, the Wazirin Katsina, extolled the university’s progress in programme expansion, research development, and community engagement.

Similarly, the pro-chancellor and chairman of the governing council, Hadi Sirika, praised Mr Radda’s leadership and reaffirmed the council’s commitment to expanding access to education, strengthening research, and repositioning the university for global competitiveness.

The vice-chancellor, Shehu Muhammad, highlighted UMYU’s remarkable growth from about 1,000 students to over 20,000, with 117 undergraduate and postgraduate programmes currently offered.

Mr Muhammad congratulated the 2,682 graduates, including 31 first-class degree holders, and commended Radda for the prompt payment of staff salaries and sustained support for the institution.

(NAN)