The Kano State Executive Council (SEC) has approved the transformation of Sa’adatu Rimi University of Education in Kumbotso into Sa’adatu Rimi College of Education, allowing it to grant degrees.
As a result of this development, Governor Abba Yusuf dismissed the university’s management and instructed the Vice Chancellor to transfer control of the now-defunct university to his most senior deputy.
The State Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Baba Dantiye, announced that the conversion was carried out following thorough consultations with the appropriate stakeholders.
He also mentioned that the decision is intended to improve educational standards and ensure efficient management. He stated that the SEC took action based on the recommendation of a high-level committee appointed by the State Government, which reviewed the university’s status and outlined a plan to improve its academic standards.
More Reasons For The Decision
The committee’s findings emphasised concerns from academic and non-academic communities and other stakeholders about the possible negative effects of the shift to university status.
Especially since the college’s strategic location and accessibility attract a diverse range of students from non-metropolitan areas, the concerns involve the potential loss of experienced lecturers, salary disputes, and administrative difficulties that could impair the institution’s operational efficiency.
It was noted that the SEC observed that numerous institutions in Nigeria have effectively functioned as colleges of education while offering various degree programs without converting to university status under the “Dual Mode” system established by the NCE regulatory body.
He added that the transition is not anticipated to negatively impact students, as current undergraduates in the College will be able to continue their studies as usual.
Dantiye suggested that the university certificate will be securely stored for future reference.
The institution will also maintain its traditional courses while introducing new degree programs that align with its expanded academic mandate.