By Oghenefejiro Emado
The Delta State Government has approved the construction of male and female hostels at Dennis Osadebay University, Asaba.
The Commissioner for Higher Education, Prof. Nyerhovwo Tonukari, disclosed this on Monday during a supervisory visit to the institution.
Tonukari, who was accompanied by the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Mrs. Felicia Ronu-Orugboh, said the contract award process for the hostels will commence shortly. He added that the project is part of the state government’s effort to strengthen infrastructure and improve students’ welfare in tertiary institutions.
The commissioner also directed the university management to intensify sensitisation of students on the Federal Government’s Nigerian Education Loan Fund, NELFUND. He noted that DOU students are eligible for the scheme, which provides tuition support and a monthly stipend of ₦20,000 to reduce financial burden and prevent dropouts.
On academic development, Tonukari urged the university to leverage its agricultural potential by establishing a flagship project that can attract national and international recognition. He challenged management to identify areas of comparative advantage and convert them into distinctive programmes that will enhance the institution’s visibility and contribute to the state’s socio-economic development.
Tonukari congratulated the newly appointed Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Samuel Ovuete Aghalino, and Registrar, Mrs. Florence Nweke, on their appointments. He also announced that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has approved the constitution of a new Governing Council for the university.
Earlier, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Aghalino, welcomed the commissioner’s delegation and commended the state government for its support. He said his administration has taken steps to restore sanitation, discipline and order, and has refurbished some official vehicles to improve operations.
The VC, however, identified high electricity cost as a major challenge, stating that the university spends over ₦18 million monthly on power. He appealed to the state government to facilitate the institution’s connection to the state-owned Independent Power Plant, IPP, to reduce expenditure.
Tonukari assured that the request and other issues raised would be presented to Governor Oborevwori for consideration.
