The House of Representatives has passed through second reading a Bill seeking for an Act to transform the already existing Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike into a conventional university.
The proposed legislation titled, “Bill seeking for an Act to Establish the Michael Okpara University, Umudike to make Comprehensive Provisions for its Due Management and Administration and for Related Matters,” was sponsored by the Deputy Speaker, Mr. Benjamin Kalu and six other lawmakers.
Leading the debate on its general principles of the motion, one of the co-sponsors, Mr. Kelechi Nwogu said that the University was established in November 1992 as a specialised University for Agriculture and related sciences pursuant to the Federal Universities of Agriculture Act, Cap F22, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.
He said however, that there was need to transform the university into a conventional university to expand its mandate.
According to the lawmaker, a conventional university status would encourage interdisciplinary research, enabling more collaborations between agriculture and other fields such as engineering, health sciences, and social sciences.
He said integrating agricultural studies with engineering could lead to innovations in mechanized farming, while partnerships with health sciences could enhance research into nutritional science and food security.
He expressed optimism that transitioning Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, into a conventional university would bring diversification of academic programs, enhanced research opportunities, increased funding, and improved global recognition.
“As an institution primarily focused on agricultural sciences, MOUAU has already contributed significantly to Nigeria’s agricultural development. However, broadening scope of the university to include diverse disciplines would amplify its impact across multiple domains. Some of the advantages include – One of the most immediate advantages of becoming a conventional university is the ability to offer a wide range of academic programs.
“Transitioning to a conventional university would allow the institution to introduce programs in fields such as Arts, Medicine, Law, Social Sciences and Humanities. This diversification would attract a larger and more varied student population, ensuring that MOUAU becomes a hub for learners from different academic and cultural backgrounds.
“By offering programs in emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and environmental sciences, the university could prepare students for the demands of a rapidly evolving job market.
“This expanded academic scope would also make the institution more appealing to prospective students who might otherwise choose other universities. Such interdisciplinary research could address complex global challenges such as climate change, sustainable development, and public health crises.
“Conventional universities often have access to a wider range of funding sources compared to specialized institutions. By expanding its academic offerings, MOUAU could attract funding from organizations that support disciplines outside agriculture.
“For example, grants for research in Technology, Medicine, and Social Sciences could complement existing funding for agricultural studies. (d) Improved Global and Local Recognition: The transition to a conventional university would likely elevate MOUAU’s status in global and local rankings. Universities that offer diverse academic programs are often ranked higher because of their broader impact on education and society.” He said.
Thereafter the Bill was put to a voice vote by the Deputy Speaker, who presided over the session, it was passed and referred to the Committee on University Education.
Confidence Okwuchi
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