Unijos Soon to Establish School of Business Studies

UNIVERSITY OF JOS, JOS NIGERIA

(OFFICE OF THE VICE-CHANCELLOR)

INFORMATION, PUBLICATIONS, PUBLIC RELATIONS & PROTOCOL DIVISION

PRESS RELEASE

UNIJOS SOON TO ESTABLISH SCHOOL OF BUSINESS STUDIES

In a significant step towards enhancing academic excellence, fostering a culture of innovation as well as promoting Business and commercial enterprise in Plateau State, the University of Jos has unveiled plans to establish a School of Business Studies in the institution.

Vice-Chancellor, University of Jos, disclosed this while commissioning some hi-tech digital electronic equipment and gadgets at the Department of Business Administration, Faculty of Management Sciences of the institution.

Professor Ishaya highlighted the growing importance of digital transformation in Higher Education and expressed his support for the Department's innovative efforts, describing the event as a remarkable showcase of the Department's commitment to technological advancement and practical learning. "The University of Jos is committed to maintaining its position as a leader in academic and technological innovation, and the proposal to elevate the Department of Business Administration into a School of Business is a step in the right direction," he stated.

The Vice-Chancellor strongly commended the Departmental Head, Staff and Students of Business Administration for their initiative in providing the equipment which is meant to aid teaching and enhance the Students learning experience.

According to the Vice-Chancellor, the idea to transform the Department of Business Administration into a School of Business is part of the University's broader strategy to enhance its academic offerings and improve its global competitiveness. Professor Ishaya explained that the proposed restructuring would provide greater autonomy to the Department, enabling it to expand its academic programmes, introduce specialized Business courses, and improve the overall quality of education provided by the University. He also noted that the new Business School will focus on areas such as Entrepreneurship, Digital Business, and sustainable Business practices, aligning with current global trends and industry demands.

Also speaking, Dean, Faculty of Management Sciences, University of Jos, Professor Teresa Nmadu, emphasized the importance of continuous innovation in the field of Business Education, noting that the digital tools introduced by the Department would serve as a model for other Departments within the Faculty and in the University.

"This initiative is a testament to the University's vision of producing Graduates who are not only knowledgeable but also technologically adept," she remarked. The Dean, who was represented by Professor Meshach Goyit, added that the world is changing rapidly, and Higher Education must evolve to keep pace with these changes. For Professor Nmadu, by establishing a School of Business, the University of Jos will be better positioned to prepare Students for the dynamic and competitive world of business.

Head of Department, Business Administration, Dr. Linus Vem, expressed excitement about the ongoing transformational initiatives on campus under the leadership of the current Vice-Chancellor, Professor Tanko Ishaya. He commended the Students, Staff and partners involved in the production of the equipment, noting that the new technology would play a pivotal role in enhancing interactive learning and teaching methodologies in the Department.

According to Dr. Vem, they are not just teaching Business concepts to the Students but they are integrating technology into every facet of Business Education so that the Students will not only learn about Business principles, but also develop the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital world.

President of the National Universities Association of Management Business Students (NUAMBS), Unijos Chapter, Daniel Achuwe said these innovations represent a great leap towards a more dynamic and future-focused Educational experience in the University. He believes the new tools will make learning more engaging and interactive, helping them to better understand complex Business concepts and prepare them for the challenges they will face in the Business world.

Also contributing, Dean, Students Affairs, Professor Christopher Piwuna, observed that the University Administration’s decision to establish a School of Business aligns with the growing emphasis to produce Graduates with strong digital literacy and entrepreneurial skills. Professor Piwuna stressed that the Business world is increasingly becoming technology-driven, which is why he believes the University is committed to ensuring that its Students are well-equipped to thrive in a digital economy.

Highpoint of the occasion was the commissioning of the electronics equipment, which were the result of collaboration between the Department's Staff, Students and external partners, underscoring the Department's focus on bridging the gap between theory and practice. It is also a testament to the Department's forward-thinking approach as the items included a sophisticated Electronic Podium designed to stream lectures and presentations live, a Smart TV to facilitate digital learning and remote collaboration, and an Interactive Board for engaging class discussions. These tools are designed not only to enhance the learning experience but also to prepare students for the technological demands of the modern business world.

Some of the main features of the Interactive Board are applications that allow the display of real-time data, collaboration with Students through virtual platforms, and the incorporation multimedia content into lectures. The Smart TV has features that serve as an interface for displaying digital resources, while the Electronic Podium offers advanced features such as seamless integration with presentation software and the ability to record lectures for online distribution.

Signed

Abdullahi Abdullahi

Senior Deputy Registrar (Information & Publications)