ASR AFRICA INITIATIVE, BUA GROUP CHAMPIONING THE UPLIFTMENT OF EDUCATION – VC

The Vice-Chancellor, Federal University of Technology (FUT), Minna, Prof. Faruk Adamu Kuta has commended the Chairman/Founder of the Abdul Samad Rabiu (ASR) Africa Initiative and BUA Group, Alh. Abdul Samad Rabiu for championing the cause of uplifting tertiary education in Nigeria.

He made the commendation on Tuesday, April 30, 2024 during a Ground Breaking Ceremony of the ASR Africa Initiative Tertiary Education Grant Scheme for Building of Hostel in FUT Minna to officially mark the commencement of construction of a N250 million worth state-of-the-art hostel block at the project site, Main Campus.

Expressing delight over the emergence of FUT, Minna as one of the beneficiaries of the Grant, Prof. Kuta extended the University’s appreciation to the Chairman/Founder of the ASR Africa Initiative and BUA Group for the laudable gesture. Adding that, the project when completed would enhance accommodation of the University there by mitigating the rate of students’ exposure to insecurity and other social vices out side the campus.

“We want our students to be accommodated in the hostel so that we can have an under-score assessment of what they are doing and how we can also ensure quality in their learning activities,” he further highlighted.

The Vice-Chancellor, who described the development as a big relief for the University also stressed the need for other wealthy individuals to emulate the philanthropic gesture of the ASR Africa Initiative and the Chairman, Urban Shelter Limited, Alh. Ibrahim Aliyu, (Sardaunan Minna) who have topped the list of championing the donation of hostel accommodation to the University.

Speaking earlier at the ground breaking ceremony, the MD/CEO, ASR Africa Initiative, Dr. Ubon Udoh assured that the ceremony does not only Mark the beginning of a landmark hostel project but also an interface between the university and his organization that is aimed at establishing a long-term, sustainable and strategic partnership in terms of development for the university and for ASR Africa Initiative to fulfil its mandate for supporting tertiary institutions in Africa.

Dr. Udoh who congratulated the University for qualifying for the grant also lauded the decision of the University Management in prioritising students’ welfare, amidst the quantum of need for infrastructure and other facilities.

In his words, “we understand the need and pressure of infrastructure in the University; but to put the students first, shows a unique kind of leadership, especially in the prevailing security challenges across the country. Improving the safety and comfort of the students is indeed commendable.”

Dr. Udoh stated that the ASR Africa Initiative as the brainchild of the Chairman of BUA Group which was established in 2021 to provide sustainable, impact-based home grown solutions to developmental issues affecting health, education and social development within Africa. He added that the ASR Africa Initiative Fund for Social Development and Renewal which is a special grant for Tertiary Institutions across Africa is part of the Chairman/Founder of the BUA Group vision and desire to enhance the education sector.

Also speaking at the ceremony, the Consultant for the project, Bamshuk Consults Ltd. Arc. Bako Ismail Muhammad, fnia, fimc, noted that the one-storey building was aesthetically designed to provide a total number of 108 bed space in 18 number spacious en-suite rooms which shall be of standard in terms of size, safety and conduciveness to engender hygiene, sense of responsibility and enhance learning ability of students.

He added that two large size common rooms are also provided in addition to the large reception hall, adding that, the building when completed, is hoped to offer a modern and inclusive leaving space that foster community and personal growth amongst students.

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Published by Information & Publications Unit, Office of the Vice-Chancellor, Federal University of Technology, Minna. 3

Affirming the commitment of his company towards working with all stakeholders in ensuring timely completion and delivery of the project, Arc. Muhammad assured that the company has the obligation to ensure quality work and strict compliance to the designs, specifications and building standards in executing the project.

Describing the Ground Breaking Ceremony as a significant milestone in the history of the institution and a testament to the power of collaboration and philanthropy in advancement of education, the Director, Physical Planning and Development Unit (PPDU) in the University, QS. Hajiya A’isha Muhammad who delivered an opening remark at the event, stated that the generous contribution from ASR Africa Initiative to the University underscored its unwavering commitment to empower the youths and invest in the future of the nation.

“As we creched the ground today, we are not just laying a foundation for a physical structure but rather establishing a cornerstone for the future prospects of our students.” She further emphasized.

QS. A’isha added that the event represents a transformative shift in the landscape of the university and symbolizes a collective dedication by the ASR Africa Initiative and the university community to excellence and innovation; stressing that, the impact of the project would be felt even by the younger generations.

The ASR Africa Initiative Team was earlier received by the Vice-Chancellor at the Academic Publishing Centre (APC), Main Campus, before the Ground Breaking Ceremony.