The alumni of the Geology and Mining Department at Nasarawa State University, Keffi (NSUK), have reaffirmed their dedication to advancing the department through meaningful donations and strategic initiatives.
During a visit to the university on Monday, January 13, 2025, the alumni delegation donated 20 compasses to the department and announced plans to address critical skill gaps among students.
Receiving the delegation, the head of the geology and mining department and director of linkages for the university, Dr. Aisha Kanaexpressed gratitude for the donation, highlighting its importance. “This donation is invaluable to us and will significantly serve the department. We deeply appreciate the efforts of the Geology and Mining Department alumni,” she said.
Kana also underscored the vital role of alumni associations in shaping institutions and fostering influence, sharing her personal experience. “An alumni association is a strong ally of the schools from which they graduated and can wield significant influence. I belong to the alumni of Leeds University and the UK Prime Minister is one of us. When one of us is in a notable office, we leverage that connection for mutual benefit. That is the power of an engaged alumni network,” she noted.
The vice-chancellor of the university, Prof. Sa’adatu Liman commended the alumni’s gesture, describing it as a testament to their enduring relationship with the university. “We are truly grateful for these items and hope the department will put them to great use.
“We are also developing policies to support alumni associations’ growth and encourage you to join hands with others in initiating programmes that advance the university,” she added.
Representing the alumni, the secretary-general of the alumni caretaker committee and delegation leader, Jerry Danwazam expressed appreciation to the university’s management for shaping their futures. “We thank the management for imparting the knowledge that has enabled us to compete effectively within and outside Nigeria,” he stated.
Danwazam also revealed ongoing efforts to register the alumni association with the Corporate Affairs Commission and plans to host an Alumni DayonMay 9–10, 2025. The event will celebrate collective achievements and strengthen bonds between the alumni, the department, and the university community.
Additionally, the association identified a gap in software skills among undergraduates in the department. To address this, they plan to establish a geospatial laboratory equipped with modern systems and licensed software to better prepare students for the labour market.
The delegation included key members of the alumni caretaker committee, such as the secretary-general, financial secretary, treasurer and representatives of various graduate sets.
The visit underscored the alumni’s commitment to supporting the department and building lasting connections, ensuring that current and future students benefit from their contributions.
