The National Universities Commission, NUC, has approved the establishment of University of Innovation, Science and Technology, Omuma, making it Imo State’s fourth state-owned university.
Executive Secretary of NUC, Prof. Abdullahi Yusufu Ribadu, formally handed over the operational licence to Governor Hope Uzodimma in Abuja.
Ribadu described the approval as a strategic milestone and a reflection of the state government’s commitment to youth empowerment, manpower development, and knowledge-based growth.
“This development represents a bold and forward-looking investment in education. It is a shared responsibility for all stakeholders, from administrators to students, to ensure that the institution becomes a true centre of learning, research excellence, and moral development,” he said.
He reaffirmed NUC’s readiness to provide continued support and oversight to ensure that the university adheres to national standards in academic programming, governance, and quality assurance.
Ribadu added that agencies such as the NYSC, TETFund, and JAMB would be duly informed of the new institution’s status.
Receiving the licence, Governor Uzodimma expressed delight over the approval, describing it as “an answered prayer” for the many young Imo citizens eager for quality higher education opportunities.
According to him, the new university, established in partnership with Imo Digital City, has already entered into a mentorship arrangement with the University of California, Berkeley, aimed at expanding its digital and entrepreneurial curriculum.
“The idea is to nurture innovation-driven graduates who will not just seek employment but also create jobs and build enterprises of their own.
“The University of Innovation, Science and Technology is therefore designed as both a citadel of learning and a business incubation hub,” the governor said.
