Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, has disclosed that his administration has invested N6.1 billion in scholarship awards for no fewer than 174,451 tertiary students, including those studying overseas, as part of a broader strategy to strengthen human capital development.
Radda made the disclosure during the 17th convocation ceremony of Al-Qalam University, Katsina, where an honorary doctorate degree was conferred on former Governor Aminu Bello Masari.
He said the state’s extensive investment in scholarships, teacher recruitment, school infrastructure, and skills development is designed to prepare young people academically, morally, and economically to compete in an increasingly globalised world.
“Education is the most powerful instrument for empowerment and sustainable development. Our administration is committed to laying a solid foundation for learners from basic to tertiary levels,” the governor stated.
He added that the government’s objective is to ensure pupils receive strong academic and moral grounding from primary and secondary school so they are fully prepared for the demands of higher education and global challenges.
Radda further revealed that the state has recruited 7,326 teachers, trained more than 20,000 others, renovated and constructed classrooms, established modern schools, and set up skills centres.
He also highlighted the creation of the Katsina State Enterprise Development Agency (KASEDA), which aims to equip youths and women with employable and entrepreneurial skills.
According to the governor, the administration’s focus is not only on issuing certificates but on developing knowledge, skills, and character that will make beneficiaries productive and socially responsible.
During the convocation ceremony, Radda announced the donation of three brand new vehicles to the overall best graduating student and two outstanding Qur’an memorizers who emerged winners in the Musabaqatul Qur’an (Gwani and Gwana categories).
He noted that Islam places high value on knowledge and moral uprightness, adding that recognising young Qur’anic scholars promotes the integration of strong religious values with modern education for balanced development.
The governor commended Al-Qalam University for complementing government efforts in delivering quality education and nurturing morally upright citizens.
He recalled that the state government donated the land on which the university is built and recently approved the construction of a perimeter fence to enhance campus security.
