Bill to establish Federal University in Bayelsa passes 2nd reading
By Victor Akan
The Senate has passed for second reading, a bill seeking to establish the Federal University of Science and Technology, Okorokorisei in Bayelsa.
The institute, if established, will focus on teaching and research in science and technology.
This followed the presentation of the general principles of the bill by the sponsor, Sen. Benson Friday (PDP-Bayelsa), at plenary on Tuesday.
Friday, in his lead debate, said the university would serve not only Bayelsa people but be an institution of learning where people from all parts of the country could come and learn.
He said the proposed university was for the training of young men and women and older Nigerians in science and technology, adding that education was a driver of modern economy.
Friday said the university would also teach courses that are particularly relevant to each immediate area, especially Marine Engineering, Petroleum, and other fields of research.
“Beyond those disciplines, the university will also produce graduates in diverse fields of Engineering, Medical Science, and Information Technology among others.
“The university will award both first and postgraduate degrees, and contribute in developing the manpower required for building our nation’s economy,” he said.
Friday said there was need to take advantage within the global economy to build the nation’s manpower base via establishment of the deserving universities.
He said there was need to establish more universities to train, equip and give them a hope and a future.
“That is why the proposed federal university of science and technology should be established.
“Establishing this university will also draw young people out of the streets and get them engaged in activities that will brighten their future and the future of this society.
“It is a weapon against youth restlessness and other biases that may arise in the future,” Friday said.
Contributing, Sen. Seriake Dickson (PDP-Bayelsa), said the bill sought the need for additional investment in the nation’s education sector.
He urged lawmakers to support the establishment of the institution, given the need for additional educational investment in the state.
President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, shortly after the bill passed the second reading, referred it to the Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETFund for further legislative inputs.
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