Jos, Nigeria – Professor Tanko Ishaya, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Jos (UNIJOS), has expressed deep concern over the severe shortage of hostel accommodation for students at the university. Speaking during a visit from the 1988 Law Faculty alumni on Saturday, Ishaya noted that the institution currently accommodates only a small fraction of its over 45,000 students on campus.
“Only seven percent of our students live within the campus, compared to the global standard of 40 percent,” Ishaya lamented. “This shortage has forced more than 90 percent of our students to live off-campus.”
To address this pressing issue, the Vice-Chancellor mentioned that the university is exploring public-private partnerships aimed at increasing hostel facilities.
In addition to accommodation challenges, Ishaya highlighted the university’s rising electricity costs, which have soared to over N80 million per month. He announced plans to develop a solar farm to help alleviate these expenses and provide sustainable power for the campus and surrounding community.
The Vice-Chancellor also informed the alumni that UNIJOS is currently offering 78 fully accredited academic programs across 17 faculties.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State, a member of the 1988 Law class, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting the university’s development. Represented by Mr. Rauta Dakok, the former Head of Service, the governor praised the institution’s dedication to maintaining high academic standards.
Mr. Emeka Etieba, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and leader of the visiting alumni class, noted that the reunion was an opportunity to assess the challenges facing the university and discuss potential interventions to support its growth.
This gathering underscores the ongoing collaboration between the university and its alumni, aimed at enhancing the educational experience for current and future students.