Taraba State University Records Five Consecutive Matriculation Milestones Under Prof. Sunday Paul Bako

The Vice-Chancellor of Taraba State University, Prof. Sunday Paul Bako, has presided over five consecutive matriculation ceremonies, marking a defining era of sustained growth, institutional reform, and strategic transformation since assuming office in 2022.

The university’s 13th Matriculation Ceremony, held on November 11, 2022, signalled the commencement of the Bako administration at a time of notable financial constraints. In response, the Vice-Chancellor initiated a series of internal revenue-generating ventures, including the establishment of a university bakery, water factory, mushroom farm, and butchery. These were complemented by the restructuring of the university printing press and the launch of TSU-FM radio, measures that collectively strengthened the institution’s financial base and operational resilience.

As at he 14th Matriculation Ceremony on September 22, 2023, the impact of these reforms had become evident. The university recorded significant improvements in infrastructure and service delivery, including the revitalisation of the university clinic, expansion of the Computer-Based Test (CBT) centre, installation of CCTV surveillance systems and deployment of campus-wide internet connectivity. The introduction of solar-powered facilities further enhanced sustainability, while hostel renovations, faculty e-libraries and successful accreditation of academic programmes reinforced academic standards.

Prof. Bako also acknowledged the support of the Taraba State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, particularly for approving a 50 per cent reduction in tuition fees, a policy widely commended for improving access to higher education.

The 15th Matriculation Ceremony, held on August 23, 2024, reflected an institution on an upward trajectory. The university expanded its academic offerings through local and international collaborations, secured professional accreditations, and established new faculties, notably the Faculty of Computing and Artificial Intelligence.

 Institutional capacity was further strengthened through improved campus security, installation of solar street lighting, execution of TETFund-supported projects, and the creation of key research and development centres such as the Institute for Entrepreneurship, Skill Acquisition, Innovation, Research and Digitisation (IESAIRD), and the Centre for Career Development and Employability Services (CCDES).

At the 16th Matriculation Ceremony on March 28, 2025, Taraba State University consolidated its global outlook with strategic partnerships, including a Memorandum of Understanding with Universiti Teknologi Malaysia. The administration also prioritised staff development, introduced new academic programmes, and enhanced student life through the construction of an indoor sports complex and expanded recreational facilities.

The 17th Matriculation Ceremony, the fifth under Prof. Bako’s leadership further proved the administration’s commitment to excellence and innovation. Recent milestones include hosting the university’s maiden Pre-NUGA Games, expansion of student accommodation, improved staff welfare packages, and the commissioning of an Entrepreneurship Centre by the North East Development Commission (NEDC). In addition, solar-powered infrastructure projects have continued to redefine the campus environment.

Looking ahead, the university is set to broaden its academic horizon with the introduction of new programmes across several faculties. These include courses in Shari’ah, Christian Theology, Philosophy, African Traditional Religion, Advertising, Broadcasting, Journalism and Media Studies, Public Relations, Data Science, Software Engineering, Special Needs Education, Sustainable Development Studies, Mining and Mineral Processing Engineering, Human Anatomy, Radiography, and Survey and Geoinformatics, among others.

Observers note that under Prof. Bako’s leadership and with sustained support from the Taraba State Governmentthe university has recorded measurable progress across financial management, academic development, and infrastructure expansion. From innovative revenue strategies to international collaborations, Taraba State University continues to position itself as a dynamic institution advancing toward national relevance and global competitiveness.