By Masara Kim

The Senate of Plateau State University, Bokkos, has approved the establishment of new programmes in the university. This was the cclimax of the 88th (Regular) meeting of the Senate held on August 23, 2024, where several key decisions were made regarding the university’s advancement.

Among the significant resolutions was the approval to establish new programs leading to Bachelor’s degrees in Medicine (MBBS), Pharmacy (Pharm. D.) and Statistics (B. Sc). This initiative aims to expand the faculties of Medical Sciences, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Sciences, building on the successful launch of programs under the Faculty of Health Sciences, which began in 2017.

Prof. Shedrack Best, Chairman of the Senate and Acting Vice Chancellor, emphasized that the move was part of ongoing efforts to fully establish medical and health science programs at the university. He revealed that discussions have already started with the National Universities Commission (NUC), which has expressed strong interest in the proposal.

“NUC responded positively to our request and is eager for us to commence these programs sooner than we initially proposed,” Prof. Best stated, adding that the NUC is prepared to send a resource verification team to the university for this purpose.

The Senate also approved the continuation of the establishment process, including the formation of a technical and administrative committee to oversee the initiative.

Additionally, the Senate reiterated its earlier approval of the cut-off mark of 160. However, the chairman noted that departments offering specialized programs are permitted to establish their own admission standards. He encouraged a unified approach to the minimum cut-off mark ahead of the upcoming admissions for the 2024/2025 academic session. Departments that have submitted their proposed cut-off marks include:

• Nursing – 215
• Medical Lab Science – 200
• Public Health – 180
• Law – 200
• Psychology – 180

The Senate also approved the academic calendar for the 2024/2025 academic session, which will commence with the first semester from October 21, 2024, to April 24, 2025. The second semester will run from April 2, 2025, to September 18, 2025.

In relation to examinations, the Senate approved the timetable for the second-semester exams, marking the conclusion of the 2022/2023 academic session. Examinations are scheduled to take place from September 2 to September 18, with a national holiday anticipated on September 16.

Other matters discussed included proposed staff recruitment across various departments and approvals for infrastructural projects funded by the Tertiary Education Trust Fund. The Senate also addressed staff welfare matters as well as sanctions for students found guilty of examination malpractice, and a proposed review of the rules governing such malpractice.

Prof. Best expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the senators and staff for their unwavering dedication, which ensured the smooth operation of the university during his medical leave.

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Plateau State University Senate Approves the Establishment of New Programmes