AUST Hosts 2nd Matriculation Ceremony

The African University of Science and Technology (AUST), located in Abuja, Nigeria, recently held its 2nd Matriculation Ceremony, welcoming 102 new students into its academic fold. The ceremony, presided over by the Acting President of the university, Prof. Azikiwe Peter Onwualu, was attended by distinguished guests, parents, faculty members, and the wider AUST community.

Established in 2007 as one of the Nelson Mandela Institutes (NMI-Abuja), AUST has since been dedicated to the advancement of science and technology education across sub-Saharan Africa. At the core of its mission is the development of African Centers of Excellence and fostering innovation in various fields.

During his address, Prof. Onwualu highlighted the university's commitment to research and innovation, with a particular focus on addressing Africa's challenges. AUST boasts world-class faculty members who engage in high-level research spanning infrastructure, energy, health, commerce, and more. The university has formed strategic partnerships with institutions such as the World Bank, African Development Bank, and Total Energies to tackle pressing issues facing the continent.

Under these collaborative programs, numerous projects are underway, including initiatives related to innovation, education, and sustainable development. From the commercial production of personal protective equipment to AI-based modeling of infectious diseases spread and control, AUST is at the forefront of pioneering solutions.

Furthermore, AUST has expanded its academic offerings to include undergraduate programs in various disciplines such as accounting, engineering, and computer science. Plans are underway to introduce new programs in emerging fields like cybersecurity, data science, and artificial intelligence, reflecting the university's commitment to staying abreast of technological advancements.

Despite these advancements, Prof. Onwualu emphasized the university's primary mandate of postgraduate studies, offering programs at the PhD and MSc levels in diverse fields. The aim is to produce industry-ready graduates equipped with both technical skills and essential soft skills necessary for success in today's competitive landscape.

In his closing remarks, Prof. Onwualu encouraged the new students to seize the opportunities available at AUST, emphasizing the importance of hard work, skill acquisition, and integrity. He urged them to avoid social vices and aspire to soar like eagles, resilient in the face of adversity.

The 2nd Matriculation Ceremony marks another milestone in AUST's journey towards academic excellence and innovation, setting the stage for a bright future for its students and the continent as a whole.