The National Universities Commission (NUC) has commenced the verification process for 18 degree programmes at the newly established Federal University of Allied Health Sciences, Enugu (FUAHSE), as preparations for its official take-off advance.

The university, formerly the Federal College of Dental Technology and Therapy, was upgraded by President Bola Tinubu on March 15, 2024, to strengthen human resource development in the health and social welfare sector. Following its inaugural senate meeting, the institution approved 22 programmes across five allied healthcare faculties, with the NUC selecting 18 programmes for immediate verification ahead of the 2024/2025 academic session.

Speaking during the verification, Jude Akubue, an NUC Academic Planner and team leader, said that the process was approved by the NUC’s Acting Executive Secretary, Amb. Chris J. Maiyaki.

“This is a significant milestone for the university and us at NUC,” Akubue said. “Our mission is to determine if the university meets the required standards to begin running these programmes, marking its full transition to a degree-awarding institution.”

The verification team comprises experts drawn from various universities, including Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, and Babcock University, ensuring thorough academic assessments.

“We will use the Core Curriculum Minimum Academic Standards (CCMAS) as our benchmark. Since CCMAS became effective from the 2023/2024 session, these programmes must adhere to a minimum of 70% CCMAS content, with the remaining tailored to the university’s unique focus,” Akubue added.

Welcoming the NUC team, FUAHSE’s acting Vice-Chancellor, Prof. John Emaimo, expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for the institution’s transition, making it Nigeria’s first health sciences university.

“This verification marks the birth of academic activities at our university,” Emaimo said. “We are committed to contributing to societal development by shaping young minds, and we rely on the NUC’s guidance to achieve accreditation.”

Emaimo assured the NUC team of the university’s cooperation during the verification process, underscoring the importance of the initiative for addressing Nigeria’s current healthcare challenges and expanding opportunities for young Nigerians.