Federal University Dutse to Establish Equipment Maintenance Centre – VC

In a landmark move aimed at strengthening infrastructure and promoting sustainability, the Vice-Chancellor of Federal University Dutse (FUD), Ahmad Muhammed Gumel, has announced plans to establish a fully functional Equipment Maintenance Centre for the institution.

The Vice-Chancellor made this known during an interactive session with members of the National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT), stressing that the proposed Centre will provide technical support services, maintenance, and repairs for scientific and office equipment across the University.

According to Professor Gumel, the initiative is timely, considering the increasing volume and sophistication of laboratory and office equipment within the institution. He emphasized that creating a dedicated maintenance structure would promote a strong culture of regular servicing, periodic rehabilitation of laboratories and workshops, and efficient management of university assets.

The VC further revealed that investing in equipment without adequately trained personnel to manage and maintain them would be counterproductive. He disclosed that his administration had already approved the training of two NAAT members immediately after assuming office, as part of efforts to upgrade technical expertise within the University.

“As end-users of most of the equipment, technologists must be actively involved in procurement processes to ensure quality, compatibility, and sustainability,” he stated, assuring NAAT members of greater inclusion moving forward.

Beyond maintenance, Professor Gumel highlighted that once operational, the Centre could serve as a revenue-generating unit by offering technical services and access to state-of-the-art facilities to other institutions for a fee.

The proposed Equipment Maintenance Centre is expected to enhance operational efficiency, reduce equipment downtime, and position FUD as a model for proactive infrastructure management in Nigeria’s university system.

This development reflects the University’s broader commitment to growth, innovation, and institutional excellence under the current administration.