Veritas University, Abuja, has expressed its commitment to equipping students with practical and entrepreneurial skills needed to drive innovation and national development through the construction of a N1.3 billion Skills and Innovation Hub.
The Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Hyacinth Ichoku, disclosed this in Abuja on Monday during the groundbreaking ceremony of the facility, performed by Cardinal John Onaiyekan.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Hyacinth Ichoku, said the university was determined to produce graduates who would leave with professional competence, practical skills and strong moral values, rather than certificates alone.
According to him, the project is a major investment designed to transform students into job creators and innovators rather than job seekers.
He said that the project was expected to be completed by the end of January, 2027.
He added that the vision of Veritas University was to build graduates who excel intellectually, possess sound character and contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s development.
”Our dream is to ensure that every student who passes through Veritas University graduates not only with a degree but also with professional qualifications and practical skills.
”What is missing in the Nigerian education system is the bridge between theory and practice, and that is what Veritas is determined to provide,” he said.
Ichoku disclosed that the Skills Hub would provide training in 11 critical skill areas to ensure that every student acquired employable and entrepreneurial skills before graduation.
The director of the Veritas Skills Hub, Dr Tosin Olushola, described the project as a transformational investment in the future of young Nigerians rather than merely the construction of a building.
Olushola said the facility would provide a platform for students to develop their creativity, innovation and problem-solving abilities while translating the university’s vision into practical solutions for society.
According to him, the centre represents hope for a generation of young people whose talents can only thrive when supported with the right opportunities.
”The Skills Hub is not just an idea; it is a possibility brought to life, and also providing a voice for a generation that might otherwise never have had one,” he said.
Olushola commended the donor, Josephat Okoye, for making the project possible, describing his support as a legacy that would positively impact generations of students.
On his part, Okoye, said Nigeria’s greatest challenge was leadership rather than a lack of talent or natural resources.
He urged young Nigerians to embrace truth, integrity and excellence, noting that those values had shaped his personal and professional achievements.
He expressed confidence that the Skills Hub would nurture the innovative abilities of students and contribute to national development.
”I am thrilled to be part of what is happening today because this Skills Hub will nurture the talents of young people and help them realize their full potential,” he said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the highlights of the event was the presentation of a portrait to Okoye by the students of the University in appreciation of his support for the institution and the construction of the Skills Hub Centre.
The ceremony also featured messages from the pioneers of the Skills Hub, exhibitions of students’ innovations and cultural performances showcasing the creativity and talents of the university community.(NAN).
