From Mu’awuya Bala Idris, Katsina
Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has commended the Katsina State Institute of Technology and Management (KSITM) for its remarkable growth and institutional maturity.
Speaking at the Institute’s combined graduation ceremony held on Saturday, Governor Radda congratulated the Governing Council, management, staff, and students for their resilience and commitment.
“Today, we celebrate excellence, perseverance, and the power of education as a transformative tool. Your journey has been one of discipline and hard work,” the Governor said.
He urged the graduands to uphold the values acquired at the institute as they transition into the next phase of their lives.
Governor Radda highlighted the institute’s strategic focus on technology and innovation as critical in today’s digital economy.
“In an era driven by digital transformation, institutions like KSITM play a vital role in equipping our youth with relevant skills for the modern economy. The Institute has distinguished itself in digital literacy, vocational training, and technological advancement,” he said.
The Governor described KSITM as a beacon bridging the gap between education and industry.
“This is why we remain committed to supporting institutions that promote innovation, entrepreneurship, and technical expertise. KSITM stands as a beacon of hope, preparing our young people to compete globally,” he added.
He also commended the institute for conferring Fellowship Awards on four distinguished personalities, including himself.
“This gesture by the Institute serves as encouragement for all of us to continue contributing meaningfully to society,” Governor Radda noted.
Addressing the graduands, he said: “The world you are entering is dynamic and competitive, but with determination and the right mindset, you can overcome any challenge. Be job creators, not just job seekers.”
He called on the graduates to utilize their knowledge and skills to make meaningful contributions to society.
Governor Radda emphasized that education remains the bedrock of sustainable development and a pathway to opportunity, dignity, and shared prosperity.
He also urged all stakeholders, including government, the private sector, and development partners, to collaborate in supporting institutions such as KSITM.
The convocation ceremony also conferred Fellowships of the Katsina State Institute of Technology and Management on Governor Dikko Umaru Radda, former Governors Ibrahim Shehu Shema, Rt. Hon. Aminu Bello Masari, and the Special Adviser to the President on Political Matters, Alhaji Ibrahim Kabir Masari.
Earlier, the Rector of the Institute, Dr. Musa Ahmed Zayyad, acknowledged Governor Radda’s transformative support for the institution’s growth.
“The support you are giving to the Institute has been the engine of our growth. We remain committed to your vision of transforming this Institute into a hub for technical and management manpower development in Katsina State and Nigeria,” Dr. Zayyad said.
He disclosed that the state government released ₦17.2 million for accreditation of ND and HND programmes, ₦48.8 million for equipment procurement, ₦24 million for workshop and laboratory renovations, and ₦11.8 million for security equipment.
In addition, the government approved the recruitment of 29 academic staff and six sabbatical staff. Over 100 solar street lights have also been installed on campus, while male and female hostels are nearing completion.
Dr. Zayyad, however, appealed for an increase in non-academic staff to match the institution’s expansion, noting that new ND programmes and the introduction of HND programmes have led to increased student enrolment.
He also requested utility vehicles, including a students’ bus, an ambulance, and official vehicles for the Governing Council Chairman and principal officers.