By Dooyum Naadzenga
The Pioneer Vice-Chancellor of the University of Agriculture, Science and Technology, Ihugh (UAST) Ihugh, Professor Qrissturberg Amua, yesterday participated in a strategic stakeholders’ engagement meeting organized by the National Universities Commission (NUC) in Abuja
The meeting convened Vice-Chancellors from Nigerian universities, senior officials from the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), and representatives from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Discussions focused on automating the NELFUND system to streamline student loan applications and disbursement, and to enhance institutional accountability within the higher education sector
The EFCC presented findings on common infractions in universities, including procurement violations, payroll fraud, unauthorized allowances, and mismanagement of internally generated revenue (IGR). They emphasized the importance of adhering to financial regulations, protecting whistleblowers, and using technology to promote transparency
NELFUND officials explained the loan system’s structure and the challenges of direct student disbursements. They proposed solutions to ensure funds reach students without burdening universities. Discussions also addressed delayed disbursements, regulatory reviews, and the need for real-time institutional feedback
Professor Amua engaged with fellow Vice-Chancellors, NUC officials, and technical consultants to share his vision for UAST Ihugh and seek support, collaboration, and professional expertise for the university
The meeting concluded with a call for enhanced inter-agency cooperation, proactive reporting, and policy reforms to improve the education loan scheme’s effectiveness in expanding access to education and maintaining public trust.
About UAST Ihugh:
The Benue State University of Agriculture, Science and Technology (BSUAST), Ihugh, is designed as a pioneering research-intensive institution with an Agricultural, Scientific, and Technological transformative vision for Benue State, Nigeria, and Africa. BSUAST is redefining the higher education landscape by placing research, innovation, and technological advancement at the core of its institutional identity
About Professor Qrisstuberg Amua:
Professor Qrisstuberg Amua is the Pioneer Vice-Chancellor of UAST Ihugh. He has a PhD in Inorganic/Bioinorganic Chemistry (Mechanochemistry. He previously worked at the Department of Chemistry, Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi. Amua is also the Executive Director of the Centre for Food Safety and Agricultural Research (CEFSAR).
