The Backbone of Excellence: How SAZU is Strengthening Its Academic Foundation
At Sa’adu Zungur University (SAZU), the belief that a university is only as strong as its academic staff is more than just a philosophy—it is a driving force behind the institution’s vision for excellence. This commitment was on full display as the university’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Fatimah Tahir, addressed a gathering of academic staff at a three-day seminar organized to sharpen their skills and reaffirm their role in shaping the institution’s future.
Standing before an audience of 75 lecturers and researchers inside the 500-Seat Lecture Theater of the Gadau campus, Professor Tahir delivered a powerful message: the success of any university is measured by the strength of its academic staff.
"Whatever the output of the university is, it is a reflection of the caliber of staff, especially academic staff, that the university has," she said, her words resonating across the hall.
For her, excellence in higher education is not just about producing graduates but ensuring that those graduates are well-rounded individuals—equipped with both knowledge and character. This, she emphasized, is why university certificates do not simply validate academic achievement but also attest to a student's moral standing.
Yet, academic excellence does not happen in isolation. It requires continuous learning and adaptation. That is why SAZU’s Directorate of Academic Planning and Quality Assurance, led by Dr. Muhammad Mukhtar Aliyu, took the initiative to organize this seminar. Designed as an orientation program, the training aimed to equip academic staff—especially newcomers—with essential skills in teaching, research, university administration, and community service.
Dr. Aliyu, in his address, stressed the importance of keeping an open mind. "This seminar is more than just a formality; it is an eye-opener," he remarked, urging participants to embrace new ideas and innovative teaching methods. He also expressed gratitude to the Vice Chancellor for her unwavering support in driving the university’s academic agenda.
The initiative is not stopping at Gadau. A second leg of the seminar is scheduled to take place at SAZU’s Yuli Campus on February 17, bringing another 75 academic staff into the fold. By the end of both sessions, 150 lecturers and researchers will have undergone training, reinforcing SAZU’s commitment to capacity-building and academic excellence.
For the participants, this seminar is more than just a training session—it is a reminder of their responsibility as educators. It is about shaping minds, influencing futures, and ensuring that SAZU stands tall as a beacon of learning. And for Professor Fatimah Tahir, the message is clear: the foundation of any great university is its academic staff. Invest in them, and excellence will follow.