Why We Established Al-Istiqama University in Rural Kano, by Kawu Sumaila

By Abdullahi Kano

Chairman of Al-Istiqama University, Sumaila, and Senator representing Kano South Senatorial District, Abdulrahman Kawu Sumaila, has said the establishment of the institution in a rural community was a deliberate effort to bridge the educational gap between rural and urban areas and reduce rural-to-urban migration in search of higher education.

Kawu Sumaila stated this at the university’s combined convocation for the 2023, 2024 and 2025 academic sessions, where 1,104 graduates were conferred with various degrees.

He explained that the decision to establish the university in a rural setting was driven by concerns over the increasing migration of young people from rural communities to urban centres in search of quality education and better opportunities.

According to him, providing a university of international standards within the rural community would help reverse the trend while creating opportunities for young people to acquire quality education without leaving their communities.

“By bringing a university of international standards directly to this rural area, we are reversing that trend and proving that higher education and economic opportunities can be created right here in our local communities,” he said.

He added that the institution was also designed to empower youths, stimulate the rural economy and create a sustainable environment where knowledge and human capital development could thrive.

Kawu Sumaila said the university had grown from an initial mission to expand access to quality and value-based higher education into an institution focused on academic excellence and character development.

He expressed appreciation to the university’s principal officers, traditional leaders, elders, institutions and governments for their contributions to the development of the institution.

The senator also acknowledged the contribution of the former chairman of the university, His Royal Highness Alhaji Jamiru Abdulkarim, saying his leadership, guidance and personal commitment contributed significantly to the growth of the institution.

Speaking at the convocation, Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, commended the vision behind the establishment of the university, saying it was in line with his administration’s commitment to improving access to education in the state.

Yusuf disclosed that the state government had sponsored the continuation of the studies of 85 medical and engineering students at the university.

The governor recalled that upon assumption of office, his administration declared a state of emergency in the education sector, stressing that the government’s interventions were beginning to yield results after three years.

He said the achievements recorded in the sector were worth celebrating, while pledging continued support for initiatives that expand access to quality education and develop human capital in Kano State.