NERDC Executive Secretary Visits Northwest University Kano, VC Honored with Award as Bursary Department Holds Send-Forth Ceremony

The Executive Secretary of the National Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC), Professor Salisu Shehu, has paid a courtesy visit to Northwest University Kano on Thursday, 2 October 2025, where discussions were held on strengthening collaboration between the two institutions.

The visit, which took place at the office of the Vice Chancellor, Professor Mukhtar Atiku Kurawa, saw Professor Shehu—former Vice Chancellor of Istiqamah University Sumaila—reaffirming the Council’s commitment to advancing educational development nationwide.

Speaking during the engagement, Professor Shehu explained that NERDC, established in 1988, has 10 directorates with specific functions, with its primary mandate focused on curriculum development for both foundational and secondary school levels.

He emphasized the regulatory role of the Council in ensuring quality teaching materials, stating:

> “Every book written in Nigeria must be submitted to the NERDC for review before it can go through further necessary processes. This is crucial in safeguarding quality and uniformity in our education system.”

Professor Shehu appreciated the Vice Chancellor for creating the platform for the visit, adding that the synergy between NERDC and Northwest University Kano would be of immense benefit to both institutions.

In his welcome remarks, Vice Chancellor Professor Mukhtar Atiku Kurawa congratulated Professor Shehu on his appointment as Executive Secretary of NERDC, describing it as a proof to his distinguished service in the education sector.

While pledging the University’s readiness to collaborate, he highlighted recent reforms introduced by the institution.

> “We have amended our system to allow students to be part of entrepreneurship programs, where they will acquire practical skills during holidays. This is in line with global best practices in higher education,” he said.

Professor Kurawa, whose tenure as Vice Chancellor is nearing completion, assured the NERDC delegation that the incoming administration would sustain the partnership.

> “Though my time as Vice Chancellor is coming to an end, I will ensure that my successor continues with this collaboration,” he added.

The meeting was attended by the principal officers of the University, who joined the Vice Chancellor in receiving the NERDC team.

On the same day, past and present staff of the Vice Chancellor’s office presented an award of excellence and gifts to Professor Kurawa in recognition of his leadership.

The event, held in his office, was filled with emotion as staff members expressed appreciation for his dedication and prayed for greater success in his future endeavors.

Responding to the gesture, Professor Kurawa said:

> “I am deeply touched by this show of love. Working with such a committed team has been one of the highlights of my tenure. I remain grateful for your support and prayers.”

In another development, on 30th September 2025, the Bursary Department of the University, under the leadership of the Bursar, Malam Salmanu Muhammad Kibiya, organized a send-forth ceremony in honor of Hajiya Amina Shehu Maimota, who retired after decades of meritorious service.

The event featured emotional speeches and presentation of gifts from colleagues and friends both within and outside the department. The Bursar described her as a committed staff whose contributions greatly enriched the University’s financial administration.

Speakers praised her professionalism, dedication, and commitment in service, while wishing her a peaceful and fulfilling retirement.