Category: Nigerian Tribune

The Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Edo State Command, Gbenga Agun, has reportedly died on Thursday in Benin.

Tribune Online gathered that the NSCDC Commander slumped at an event organised by a peace ambassador in Benin, where he was expected to be honoured with an award of excellence.

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It was learnt ýthat Agun, who was a guest speaker at the event organised by the International Association of World Peace Advocates, reportedly slumped shortly after delivering his keynote address.

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ýA source told Tribune Online that the Agun was immediately rushed to the Military Base hospital located on Airport Road for medical attention.

He said late Agun was confirmed dead at the hospital by the doctor on duty, who, according to him (the source), confirmed that the Commandant was brought In Dead (BID)

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ýEfforts to get a response from the state command was unsuccessful, as calls to the Command’s spokesperson, Mr Efosa Ogbebor, were not answered.

Big Brother Naija Season 10 took a dramatic turn on Thursday as one of the housemates, Adewale Faith, simply known as Faith, was disqualified from the reality TV show.

The disqualification was announced by Big Brother while addressing the housemates, citing repeated violations of the show’s rules.

According to Big Brother, Faith’s recent altercation with another housemate, Sultana, breached the code of conduct guiding all housemates.

In a now-viral video on social media, he engaged in physical violence with Sultana, forcefully dragging a bucket from her until she fell.

Faith becomes the first housemate of the season to be disqualified, cutting short his journey for the ?120 million grand prize.

Big Brother Naija, which premiered its 10th season earlier this year, now has nine housemates competing for the ultimate prize.

Tribune Online reports that Faith, a few weeks ago, described fellow housemate Imisi as a threat to his progress in the competition.

During a conversation with Mide and other housemates, Faith explained that his strained relationship with Imisi had made it nearly impossible for them to work together effectively.

‘Imisi is a threat to my success,’ Faith said, drawing gasps from the housemates.

Former Minister of State for Defence and Minister of State, Foreign Affairs, Senator Musiliu Obanikoro, has said Nigeria will reclaim its rightful place as giant of Africa under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

He equally joined millions of Nigerians all over the world to celebrate Nigerian 65th Independence Day Anniversary.

In a statement personally signed and issued to newsmen by Senator Obanikoro, reads in part: ‘As Nigeria marks her 65th Independence Anniversary, I, Senator Musiliu Obanikoro, join millions of compatriots across the globe in celebrating the remarkable journey of our beloved nation a journey defined by sacrifice, resilience, and the indomitable spirit of our people.

‘Sixty-five years ago, our founding fathers, with uncommon courage and conviction, reclaimed our sovereignty and entrusted us with the sacred responsibility of nationhood. Since then, Nigeria has faced trials that would have broken lesser nations.

‘Yet, time and again, Nigerians have demonstrated an unyielding capacity to rise above adversity, to endure, and to hope. It is this resilience that continues to define us as a people.

‘Today, our democracy stands firm after 26 unbroken years, our diversity remains our greatest strength, and our sons and daughters excel across the globe in every field of human endeavor. These are testaments to the enduring greatness of Nigeria.

‘At 65, we must reflect on how far we have come and reaffirm our collective determination to build the Nigeria of our dreams.

‘The task before us is to transform our challenges into stepping stones for national renewal, and to place the prosperity of our people above all else.’

Senator Obanikoro, who also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his bold reforms, called for a vibrant private sector and as well urged Nigerians to see themselves as stakeholders in building the country.

‘I commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his bold reforms and unwavering commitment to repositioning our economy, restoring global confidence, and deepening hope for all Nigerians.

‘While the path of renewal is never easy, I am confident that under his leadership, Nigeria is poised to reclaim her rightful place as the giant of Africa and a beacon of black excellence in the world.

‘However, beyond government’s efforts, I urge Nigerians to pursue the coming years with a collective approach.

‘No nation has ever achieved true greatness on the back of government alone; development thrives only where there is synergy between the public and private sectors.

‘A vibrant and stronger private sector, working in harmony with government, will serve our nation best and accelerate our journey to prosperity.

‘Individualism does not pay, and government cannot do it alone.

‘Every Nigerian must see themselves as a stakeholder in the project of building our country. I therefore call on all citizens to remain consistent, resilient, and committed in everything they do, for it is our shared efforts that will shape the Nigeria of tomorrow.

‘As we celebrate, let us remember that nation-building is a shared responsibility. Our unity, resilience, and shared optimism remain the greatest assets in our march to greatness.

‘May the Almighty continue to guide our leaders, bless our people, and preserve our nation for generations to come.

‘Happy 65th Independence Anniversary, Nigeria!’ He stated.

Emerging Afrobeats artist Yemzoid has set himself apart with his latest singles Somebody and Lekeleke, tracks that many believe are strong contenders for industry awards. With their polished production, meaningful lyrics, and emotional depth, these singles demonstrate a maturity and artistry that could propel him into the spotlight at upcoming music award ceremonies.

Yemzoid views the tracks as a reflection of his personal growth. ‘These singles reflect my personal growth as an artist, showcasing maturity in both lyrics and delivery. They represent a new chapter in my music journey with a fresh perspective and a deeper understanding of this world I am exploring,’ he said. This sense of evolution is evident in the refined storytelling and emotional connection woven into each song.

Somebody dives into the passion and vulnerability that come with loving someone, while Lekeleke celebrates the strength and independence of women. Together, they balance emotional sensitivity with empowerment, offering a blend of messages that resonate deeply with listeners. By centering women in his music, Yemzoid adds a socially conscious dimension to Afrobeats, which could earn him recognition in categories beyond just mainstream appeal.

As fans continue to embrace these tracks, conversations around their award potential are growing. Whether in songwriting, vocal performance, or even cultural impact categories, Yemzoid has delivered music that meets the criteria for critical acclaim. With Somebody and Lekeleke, he may not only win the hearts of fans but also secure his place among the new generation of award-winning Afrobeats talents.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Thursday criticised President Bola Tinubu’s Independence Day speech, saying that a review of the address showed that he had nothing to tell Nigerians.

The party claimed that even the President himself did not believe in what he read to Nigerians.

The reaction came as the PDP reiterated that its scheduled November 15 Ibadan Elective National Convention would hold despite alleged attempts by forces both within and outside the party to cause ‘distractions’ for it.

The National Publicity Secretary, Honourable Debo Ologunagba, giving the PDP’s assessment of Tinubu’s 65th independence anniversary speech in Abuja, described it as replete with ‘lies’, ‘boring’, ‘uninspiring’ and allegedly did little to impress any Nigerian.

‘The speech, to say the least, was pathetic, boring and uninspiring. Typical of the APC’s propaganda, it was full of lies and poor statistics.

‘Even the President didn’t believe in what he was reading. He was saying things that were completely incorrect. The whole speech was at variance with the reality on the ground’, Ologunagba told a news conference.

The PDP said the ‘most shocking’ part of the speech was when Tinubu said the country’s economy had improved and that Nigerians were faring better than when he took over the reins of power in 2023.

‘The President saying the economy is working and has turned the corner. That was shocking. Is he talking about turning the corner on insecurity, the corner on parents not being able to pay school fees?’, the spokesman asked.

He accused the APC-led government of returning Nigeria to ‘bondage’ of poor economic management and insecurity, years after the PDP had freed the nation from such problems.

For instance, Ologunagba cited the country’s debt burden, recalling a point in Nigeria’s history when it exited the debt trap during the PDP days.

The party called on the President to address the nation again to speak on the obvious questions they expected him to answer: ‘From subsidy withdrawal alone, how much has been saved exactly? We don’t know. We keep hearing of borrowings, and we are going deeper and deeper into problems. What have the loans been spent on?’

Ologunagba added, ‘Nigerians and the PDP, we seek a special broadcast on the details of the subsidy removal, details of loans and the application of those loans.’

On the Ibadan convention, the party noted that the distractions, which it blamed on the APC and some collaborators in-house, would go ahead as planned because ‘the train has arrived in Ibadan; we are far ahead of the distractions.’

Commenting on the seeming disagreement between the National Working Committee (NWC) and the National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, exhibited by Anyanwu countering decisions taken by the NWC, Ologunagba stated that it would appear that the secretary lacked understanding of the provisions of the PDP’s constitution.

He explained that while the National Chairman, as Chief Executive Officer of the party, could summon any meetings and direct any actions to be taken by the party, the secretary is an administrative officer whose primary duty is to implement directives or decisions taken by the party.

The spokesman further explained that it would be unheard of to say decisions taken at properly-convened meetings of the NWC, such as the postponement of state congresses in Cross River, Plateau and Kebbi, as well as the dissolution of the Akwa Ibom State Executive Council, would be overturned by the secretary.

He added that Section 35 of the PDP constitution empowers the National Chairman to summon and preside over the NWC and caucuses of the party, powers not shared with the secretary.

He also explained that the chairman could delegate such powers to any other NWC member whenever necessary.

‘So, the secretary can’t summon meetings or authorise any meetings’, Ologunagba stated, adding, ‘So, if the party says there is no Congress in Cross River or a dissolution of an Exco, why should an individual oppose it?

He dismissed claims that the NWC never met or took any decisions, saying that 16 out of 18 members of the committee met.

In the case of Akwa Ibom, the PDP said it observed a ‘misnomer’ playing out, where Governor Umo Eno, who had defected to the APC, was bent on controlling the PDP structure in the state by attempting to fuse the two parties.

According to Ologunagba, allowing the arrangement to continue would be in violation of Section 10(6) of the PDP’s constitution, ‘which does not allow any member of the party to align with another group to undermine the party.’

Last week, the National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Damagum, wrote to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) notifying it of the decision of the NWC to postpone state congresses in Cross River, Plateau and Kebbi States to a new date after due consultations.

But, Anyanwu immediately wrote to the INEC, urging the commission to ignore Damagum’s letter because the congresses scheduled for Saturday, September 27, would be held.

The congress was indeed held in Cross River, returning Mr Venatius Ikem as the state chairman, though on Monday, September 28, the NWC disowned the congress, calling it a ‘carnival.’

On Tuesday this week, the PDP announced the dissolution of the Akwa Ibom exco. But just like it happened last week, the national secretary countered the decision again by writing to the dissolved exco members to ignore the NWC.

Investigations showed that the PDP moved to reposition the party in Akwa Ibom, following the defection of Governor Eno to the APC in an apparent bid to cut ties between him and the state exco led by Mr Aniekan Akpan.

Akpan, not willing to let go and now backed by some influential party leaders in Abuja, is staying put in office, despite his sacking by the NWC.

Before now, Governor Eno, in a leaked video, had spoken of his intention to work with both the structures of the PDP and the APC in the state for the unity of the state.

‘As a matter of fact, contrary to some insinuations, I want to run both parties (APC and PDP)? Far from it. And what is wrong with being interested? We would not leave the PDP for thieves to hijack and use it against us.

‘If anybody thinks we are going to do that, they have something coming. We will lead the structure of the party (PDP) so that they can work together (with APC). So that people don’t come from outside and think that Mr Eno has moved, let me come and hijack the party. Let the structure of the party remain.

‘They have done their congresses. That’s my position,’ the governor had revealed.

Just days ago, Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, had praised Governor Eno’s decision to dump the PDP, an action seen by many political watchers as absurd in the ongoing struggle for the control of the soul of the once-largest political party in Africa.

The Akwa Ibom State Hotels and Tourism Board has declared that tourism will be a major driver of development, infrastructure, and community progress in the state.

Chairman of the Board, Mrs. Ime Udoh, stated this yesterday, while unveiling activities for the 2025 World Tourism Day celebration, saying that the theme for this year’s event, ‘Tourism and Sustainable Transformation,’ aligns with the state government’s vision of harnessing tourism as a catalyst for economic growth.

She commended Governor Umo Eno for creating an enabling environment for tourism to thrive, noting that the sector is attracting new investments and improving infrastructure across communities.

According to her, the 2025 celebration, though globally observed on September 27, has been shifted to October 4 in the state due to other government activities.

She added that the events will feature an eco-friendly road walk, a clean-up exercise, and the popular ‘I Love Akwa Ibom’ social media challenge, all converging at the Water Fountain on Nwaniba Road before proceeding through the Ibom Icon and Golf Resort route.

Mrs. Udoh explained that the exercise will not only showcase the state’s scenic routes but also emphasize the need for cleanliness and community participation. ‘As we walk through these routes, we aim to engage with the community and highlight that they are integral to our tourism attractions. Their unique culture and heritage are what draw visitors,’ she said.

She noted that improved roads and clean environments will increase tourist inflow, create employment opportunities, and drive infrastructural development within host communities, even as the sensitization exercise will cover areas such as Ekpri Nsukara, Uran Market, Ifiayong, Atiku, and Itam, before culminating at the UCCDA flyover.

The celebration will also feature a contest encouraging participants to showcase Akwa Ibom’s culture through food, dance, stories, and visual content, with prizes for winners. Participants are to tag the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Hotels and Tourism Board, and private tourism partners on social media.

Mrs. Udoh used the occasion to commend private organizations collaborating with the state government in promoting culture and tourism, assuring them of continued government partnership.

National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NBRDA) and La Shipson Pharmaceuticals Ltd have stepped up plans to commence the local production of HIV drugs in Nigeria.

The move follows the recent signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two organisations aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s capacity to produce life-saving medicines locally.

During the week, a delegation from La Shipson, led by its Chief Executive Officer, Hon. Godiya Shipi, visited NBRDA for further engagements on the project.

The delegation included the company’s Board Chairman, Dr. Handsome Momoh, as well as partners and investors, all of whom expressed strong commitment to supporting the initiative.

According to NBRDA, the project will be domiciled within its facilities and is designed to address the healthcare gap created by the withdrawal of international aid for HIV treatment.

Beyond improving access to affordable drugs, the collaboration is also expected to create jobs, drive technology transfer, upgrade NBRDA’s laboratories, and enhance staff research and analytical capacity.

Implementation steps are already underway, with both organisations working towards introducing the first batch of the locally produced HIV drugs into the Nigerian market by the first quarter of 2026.

The Jigawa State House of Assembly has directed its committee on health to investigate the multi-billion-naira upgrading of Kiyawa cottage to a general hospital.

Speaking to Tribune Online in Dutse, the state capital, the chairman House committee on health, Hon. Usman Abdullahi Tura, said the decision followed a complaint by the Kiyawa committee over misconduct in the contract by the contractor.

Tura explained that ‘today the Jigawa State House of Assembly under Rt Hon Haruna Aliyu Dangyatin has mandated its health committee to investigate the upgrading of Kiyawa cottage to a general hospital, equipment supply and installation.’

According to him, the committee has been mandated to visit and carry out an investigation into the award of the contract, how it was awarded, the execution of the contract, and to find out what went wrong and the real issues that are involved in the General Hospital Kiyawa project.

He added that the problem started when the state governor, alongside the Speaker of the Assembly, Haruna Aliyu Dangyatin, paid a visit to the hospital recently on the day of the citizens’ engagement forum at Kiyawa town, where residents of the community have complained about the substandard materials in the projects.

The member representing Guri State Constituency in the Assembly confirmed that during the visit by the high-level government officials, there were some noticeable defects in the structure.

‘This is a sad development, but as a committee constitutionally saddled with the mandate, we intend to go and find out the critical issues involved and resolve the matter amicably without rancour within the four-week time frame given to us by the House.

‘We have already visited the hospital, the Kiyawa General Hospital; it now remains for us to invite the contractors to furnish us with what truly happened. We have noticed some defects during our last oversight visit to the hospital.

‘We added him, at least to come and look analyse some defects and if possible, amend them, but unfortunately, along the line he was not able to do so until now. So this is the time we’re asked to visit the hospital and see what went wrong so that the entire community can enjoy the facilities provided by the general hospital.’

The lawmaker confirmed that the grievances came from the community entirely and addressed the situation and found out why the community is not enjoying the facilities at are supposed to be installed at the hospital.’

He enjoined the community to feel free and approach the committee during its sitting to formally present their observations and complaints to the committee.

‘Therefore, we informed them that the situation is under control and we’re determined to address their complaints and find a lasting solution to their grievances,’ he declared.

Niger State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has intercepted a truck loaded with a telecommunication mast valued at several million of naira, along with a Sharon vehicle carrying mining products.

Parading the suspects at the command headquarters in Minna, the State Commandant, Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, said operatives of the anti-vandal unit arrested two suspects along the Tafa-Suleja axis following credible intelligence.

The suspects, identified as Mustapha Aliyu and Abubakar Safyanu, have since been arraigned in court for prosecution.

In a related development, the command also apprehended a mining team of seven men allegedly engaged in illegal mining activities at Kataeregi, along Bida road.

A Sharon vehicle loaded with illegally mined products was also impounded.

One of the suspects, identified as Mahmoud Idris, a self-acclaimed mining marshal from Zuzungi in Katcha Local Government Area, admitted during interrogation that he had yet to obtain an operating license. He confessed that he had been hiring labourers and selling Zico mineral to dealers before his arrest.

Commandant Aniviye vowed to make Niger State uncomfortable for vandals, illegal miners, and other criminal elements.

He pledged to strengthen collaboration with other security agencies to ensure a crime-free society.

He further reaffirmed the commitment of the corps to safeguarding the state’s assets and critical infrastructure while commending the Commandant General, Ahmed Abubakar Audi, and Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago for their continued support to the command.

Anambra State Governor, Charles Soludo and Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, have expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future as the country marks 65 years of independence.

At an event held at Alex Ekwueme Square, Awka, Soludo described Nigeria’s independence as ‘a symbol of hope, freedom, and the possibility of the black race,’ calling for reflection and unity.

He urged citizens to invest in the nation’s future, highlighting insecurity and economic strains as pressing issues while commending recent federal reforms.

The event served as both a celebration and a call for unity, emphasising the triumphs and trials that have shaped the nation’s journey since 1960.

In his address, Governor Soludo described Nigeria’s emergence as ‘a symbol of hope, freedom, and the possibility of the black race,’ urging citizens to see the day as one of ‘sober reflection.’

He highlighted the indomitable spirit of Nigerians in overcoming challenges, stating, ‘With vision, hard work, and faith, no obstacle is insurmountable.’

The Governor pointed out the pressing issues facing the nation, particularly insecurity and economic strains. However, he stressed the importance of sustaining Nigeria’s investment in its people, asserting, ‘Our greatest resource is our people. Invest in people, invest in the future.’ He particularly praised President Bola Tinubu for implementing necessary reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidy stabilisation, the exchange rate, among others, which he characterised as ‘necessary medicine for an economy long distorted and pampered over.’

Governor Soludo acknowledged recent positive developments, noting that Nigeria’s GDP has reached 4.28 per cent, its highest in three years. He emphasised that with good governance laid at the foundation, the nation is poised for ‘accelerated growth and transformation.’

The Governor encouraged the citizens of Anambra and Nigeria at large to stand firm in the face of adversity, stating, ‘Ndi Anambra and Nigerians should stand firm as a bright future awaits them.’

The Governor called for a collective effort, urging individuals to play their roles in nation-building through patriotism: paying taxes, supporting reforms, and holding leaders accountable.

Concluding, Governor Soludo urged citizens to ‘look back with hope, not with despair,’ reinforcing his belief that, despite present challenges, Nigeria is on the rise.

Also in her Independence Day message, the governor’s wife, Mrs Nonye Soludo, called on citizens to remain law-abiding, be proud Nigerians and give up what they have to for the betterment of the country.

The Anambra first lady, who is also the founder of the ‘Healthy Living With Nonye Soludo’, appealed in a statement she issued on Wednesday, as part of the activities for the anniversary.

She stressed that Anambra is committed to building a state where citizens can live and work without fear and where opportunities for potential and growth thrive under a secure environment.

She noted that the journey to nationhood demands a collective vision and ambition, adding that Nigeria is a great and blessed country.

On his part, Nwifuru expressed joy in the execution of the people’s charter of Needs agenda and renewed resolve in the state.

Nwifuru stated this during the celebration of Nigeria’s 65 years and Ebonyi State’s 29 years of creation in his office, Centenary City, Abakaliki, on Wednesday.

He urged Ebonyi residents to recommit themselves to the task of building a stronger, fairer and more prosperous Ebonyi anchored on the People’s Charter of Needs Agenda.

Nwifuru also commended the past leaders of the State for their dogged efforts to move the state forward. He, however, noted that the government under his leadership have taken proactive steps to ensure the labours of the founding fathers were not in vain.

‘Ndi Ebonyi, as Nigeria marks 65 years of independence and Ebonyi State celebrates 29 years since her birth today, our hearts are full of gratitude, pride, a sense of responsibility for the execution of the People’s Charter of Needs Agenda and renewed resolve.

‘On this double anniversary, October 1, 2025, we remember the sacrifices of our forebears, celebrate our unity, and recommit ourselves to the task of building a stronger, fairer and more prosperous Ebonyi anchored on the People’s Charter of Needs Agenda. We are already in the first phase of our third political year, given that we came into power in May 2023.

‘Let me pay glowing tribute to our founding fathers who sacrificed their comfort to champion the cause of the creation of Ebonyi State and to give us the ample opportunity of having our destiny in our hands. Democratically elected governor of our dear State, His Excellency Sen Sam Ominyi Egwu, took bold steps to lay a solid foundation for the development of Ebonyi State through quality education and affordable health Care. To Chief Martin Elechi, we appreciate your resilience and commitment to advancing our State. Your bridges of Unity and human capital development is part of the reasons we are celebrating today. To my boss, the immediate past Governor of our State and current minister for works Sen. David Umahi, history will remain kind to you for the monumental achievements the State recorded under your watch.

‘I am proud to announce to you that we have taken intentional steps to implement our campaign manifesto. We are fighting illiteracy and ignorance by demerging the education ministry. We created a new ministry charged solely with tertiary education administration and the education ministry for primary and secondary schools. From the very beginning of this administration, we made a solemn promise that education would be the compass by which we steer our State. We believed then, and we believe now, that investing in the minds of our children is the surest path to lasting development.’

Nwifuru also noted that his government have expanded opportunities for higher learning through a bold scholarship programme that has sent hundreds of Ebonyi sons and daughters to pursue advanced degrees both at home and abroad.

He, however, said the commissioning of his projects will commence from May 2026 till May 2027.

‘Last week, I embarked on a statewide project inspection tour to know the progress of work in the 22 classroom block for our 39 model secondary school and 12 classrooms block for our primary schools. The projects are under way and progressing impressively.

‘In the 2024/2025 cycle alone, the State sponsored hundreds of scholars for local and international postgraduate studies – a major step in building technical capacity and global exposure for our youth. I am glad to inform you that a significant portion of that programme saw our first beneficiaries travel to the United Kingdom and other partner countries to undertake Master’s and PhD programmes, an investment designed to bring back not only qualifications but world-class skills and networks to serve our state.

‘We also prioritised the revitalisation and funding of our tertiary institutions by increasing the statutory subvention and clearing accumulated obligations to our university. We stabilised academic operations and protected the academic calendar, ensuring our young men and women can learn without interruption.

‘This is why no industrial actions by any of the trade unions in the Tertiary institutions of Ebonyi State University and Ebonyi State College of Education. However, we know access to education is not only about universities. We prepared our youths for the jobs of today and tomorrow through targeted vocational and skills-training initiatives. Under this programme, beneficiaries of vocational training received direct start-up grants to translate skills into sustainable livelihoods – an approach that links training with immediate economic empowerment. As one tangible result, grants were disbursed to recent vocational graduates to help them start small businesses and workshops.

‘Recognising the need to align our educational system with the economy of the future, we have laid the groundwork for specialised academic institutions focused on cutting-edge sectors. This is why we established the University of ICT at Oferekpe Agbaja to promote ICT and digital literacy and also the University of Aviation and Aeronautical Engineering, strategic choices that will position Ebonyi as a hub for technology and specialised engineering education in the South-East and beyond. May I inform you that courses have been allocated to our ICT University and processes of admission have also commenced.

‘These initiatives are designed to create graduates who are industry-ready and globally competitive. Beyond institutions and scholarships, we have worked to make education affordable and dignified.