President Bola Tinubu has urged University staff-based unions to maintain a path of dialogue at all times to avoid frequent strikes.

The president, who was represented by Prof. Chinedum Nwajiuba from NUC, emphasised that these strikes hurt both the unions and the nation as a whole.

Speaking during the 41st Founder’s Day and 31st and 32nd Combined Convocation Ceremonies of the Federal University of Technology, Minna, Tinubu highlighted the importance of education in the development of Nigeria and assured Nigerians of his administration’s commitment to the education sector.

He said: “Please, be assured that we are committed to having industrial harmony in our educational institutions and shall continue to dialogue with the university-based unions to amicably resolve differences.

“While assuring them of our commitment to improving their welfare within the limits of available resources. I urge the unions to maintain the path of dialogue at all times as frequent strikes hurt us all.

“Your expectations may not have been met as speedily as you may have wished, but rest assured that I value your efforts and contributions to national development and my administration will fulfil my promises and obligations to you all.”

Turning his attention to the graduating students, President Tinubu reminded them of the empowerment they had received through their degrees and entrepreneurial programs encouraging them to resist the influence of undesirable groups and to use their acquired knowledge and skills to make a positive impact on society.

The president reassured the students that his administration is working towards strengthening the economy and creating opportunities for them to flourish in Nigeria.

He also commended the university’s management and staff for their dedication and commitment to achieving excellence. He acknowledged the role of the graduating students and their families in the success of the institution.

While addressing the security challenges facing the country, Tinubu assured the audience that the government would prioritize the safety and conducive environment of educational institutions.

The Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor Faruk Adamu Kuta said that 3,867 and 3,445 graduates of 2021/2022 and 2022/2023 academic sessions respectfully making a total of 7,312 will be conferred with first degrees, 120 Postgraduate Diplomas, 955 Master Degrees and 150 Doctorate Degrees (PhD).

He urged the graduates to strive not merely to be an employee but an employer, drawing upon the entrepreneurship training ingrained in them during their studies.

Kuta stated that with patience, hard work, and perseverance, the graduates can navigate through to their goals adding that they now hold the ticket to craft the life they desire.

During the convocation, Nurudeen Suleiman from the Department of Civil Engineering was awarded the overall best graduating student with a CPGA of 4.86 while Neemat Ibrahim from the Department of Food Production with a CPGA of 4.81 was awarded the overall best female graduating student.

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