By Peter Duru, Makurdi

The Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi (JoSTUM), formerly Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi (FUAM), has employed over 70 of its First Class graduates as part of a major recruitment exercise aimed at strengthening its academic workforce and institutional capacity.

The development was announced Thursday during a maiden reception and orientation programme organised for the newly recruited staff, many of whom are alumni of the institution, marking what stakeholders described as a historic milestone in the university’s history.

Speaking at the event, the National President of the Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University Alumni Association (JoSTUMAA), Dr. Theophilus Ukaa, said the recruitment exercise was the first of its kind, noting that it reflected a deliberate effort to retain talent and build a sustainable academic future.

“It is important to reiterate that this is the first time in the history of the university that there is a single massive recruitment of graduates, predominantly from our alma mater,” Ukaa said.

He disclosed that out of over 300 candidates recruited, about 80 percent wete academic staff, with a significant proportion drawn from the university’s graduates, “including more than 70 First Class degree holders deployed across various colleges and departments.”

According to him, the move would ensure knowledge retention and promote a gradual transition in leadership within the university system. “This exercise will go a long way in ensuring effective leadership and management of the university in no distant time,” he added.

Ukaa commended the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Isaac Itodo, for what he described as a transparent, merit-driven and inclusive recruitment process, noting that it has set a benchmark for fairness and institutional integrity.

“The recruitment process has reinforced public confidence in the university’s leadership and demonstrated a strong commitment to strengthening the academic foundation from within,” he said, adding that engaging top-performing graduates was a strategic investment in the institution’s future.

The alumni president also highlighted several achievements of the current administration, including the promotion of over 180 academic staff, expansion of academic programmes, restoration of the College of Management Sciences, and improvements in infrastructure across the campus; noted that the university had recorded progress in academic activities, including regular release of results, increased inaugural lectures, and the successful hosting of multiple convocation ceremonies.

Charging the newly recruited staff, Ukaa urged them to take their responsibilities seriously and position themselves as future leaders of the institution. “Amongst you seated here, we have future Vice Chancellors, Deans and Directors. You must begin to lay that foundation now,” he said.

Also speaking, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Isaac Itodo, who spoke through Dr. Ukaa advised the new employees to remain dedicated and uphold the values of the institution.

He urged them to avoid actions that could tarnish the image of the university and to focus on their core responsibilities. “You must dedicate yourselves to your assignments, work hard to excel, and contribute meaningfully to the growth of the institution,” he said.

In her welcome address, the Chairperson of the JoSTUMAA Campus Branch, Engr. Kumator Taku described the recruitment as a clear demonstration of the university’s commitment to excellence and capacity building.

“We are particularly appreciative of the deliberate effort to engage highly qualified individuals, including over 70 First Class graduates. This reflects confidence in the quality of our products and strengthens institutional growth,” he stated.

Similarly, the Convener and Chairman of the Organising Committee, Dr. Rachael Duche, said the event symbolised continuity and a full-circle moment for the new staff who had transitioned from students to employees of the university.

“You carry a unique identity as alumni. Your transition represents growth, responsibility, and commitment to excellence. The university has entrusted you with shaping minds and advancing research,” she said.

Duche encouraged the new staff to embrace professionalism, integrity and continuous learning, noting that their roles extend beyond employment to being ambassadors of the institution.

The newly employed staff expressed gratitude to the university management for the opportunity to contribute to the development of their alma mater.

The orientation programme also featured three presentations by senior academics, including Prof. John Ogoli who spoke on Academic progression and Growth in the University System; Professor Simon Ejembi talked on Ethics in the University System-The Rudiments, Pitfalls while Professor Alex Wuanor’s presentation was on Strengthening University Governance through Alumni Participation.