BUK Inducts Retiring Professor into Hall of Fame,as they Celebrates Literacy asa Tool for Empowerment
Bayero University Kano (BUK) has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting literacy as a fundamental driver for equitable community development and individual empowerment.
The event, held on Monday 8 September 2025, was doubly significant as it served as the induction ceremony for the renowned Professor Fatima Muhammad Umar into the university’s Hall of Fame for her lifelong dedication to adult education, coinciding with her impending retirement.
The Vice Chancellor, Professor Haruna Musa, set the tone for the day, defining literacy as more than just the ability to read and write.
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“It is a powerful tool that opens doors of opportunity, allowing individuals and communities to thrive,” Professor Musa stated.
He emphasized that literacy forms the bedrock of inclusive education, which is crucial for building a more equitable society.
Highlighting the university’s practical efforts, the VC commended the Department of Continuing Education for its remarkable work in establishing adult literacy classes.
These initiatives have provided valuable second-chance learning opportunities for the university’s junior staff and residents of surrounding communities.
Looking forward, Professor Musa pledged to strengthen collaborations with government bodies, non-governmental organizations, and community leaders.
“We will continue to champion literacy, second-chance education, and lifelong learning, with a special focus on women and marginalized groups,” he declared.
The ceremony pivoted to a celebration of academic excellence as tributes poured in for the inductee, Professor Fatima Muhammad Umar. The Dean of the Faculty of Continuing Education, Professor Gali Saidu, the chief host of the event, praised Professor Fatima for carving a distinct niche for herself in the academic world.
“The university community will miss her greatly as she prepares to retire this September, but her legacy will remain invaluable to students, scholars, and society at large,” Professor Saidu remarked.
The convener of the event, Associate Professor Auwal Halilu, Head of the Department of Continuing Education, explained that the day was both a reflection on the global call for literacy and a fitting tribute to Professor Fatima’s life-changing contributions.
“BUK takes pride in its role of providing second-chance learning, empowering women and girls, and strengthening community capacity through our literacy programs. We have established adult learning hubs specifically for this purpose,” Associate Professor Halilu said.
In a heartfelt vote of thanks, the guest of honor, Professor Fatima Muhammad Umar, described the day as “historic and memorable,” marking both a global observance and the conclusion of her formal academic journey.
“I pledge to remain a worthy ambassador of BUK and to continue impacting lives through literacy and continuing education,” she promised.
She also congratulated the department on establishing the Hall of Fame, describing it as a worthy initiative that would not only benefit BUK but also serve as a model for other universities across Nigeria.
The event culminated with Professor Fatima’s formal induction into the Hall of Fame, followed by celebratory cultural dances and speeches, celebrating a lifetime of service to education and the unwavering power of literacy.
Bayero University Kano is one of Nigeria’s premier universities,committed to providing high-quality education and fostering community development through teaching, research, and public service.