The Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia (FUASK), Kaduna State, officially commenced academic lectures on Monday, marking the start of its first academic session since its establishment by the Federal Government.

The institution, Nigeria’s first specialised university of applied sciences, began operations just months after the government approved its take-off, inheriting the infrastructure of the former NOK University.

The campus in Kachia was filled with pioneer students, lecturers, administrative staff, and traders as the university opened its doors. Addressing journalists shortly after welcoming the inaugural students, Vice Chancellor Prof. Williams Barnabas Qurix said the commencement of lectures represented a “foundation for future scientists and innovators.”

“Today is more than the beginning of lectures; it is the birth of an institution that will drive applied science education and practical research in Nigeria,” Qurix said.

He added that the university’s vision is to be globally rated in knowledge, skills, and innovation, and that “every graduate will leave here with a component of business enterprise and product development.”

The Vice Chancellor explained that FUASK’s curriculum is designed to bridge the gap between theory and practice, emphasising industry partnerships, modern laboratories, entrepreneurship training, and discipline-specific Students’ Industrial Work Experience Schemes to deepen practical exposure.

Qurix urged the pioneer students to remain focused and disciplined, warning that the university maintains zero tolerance for cultism, fighting, bullying, alcoholism, and any form of misconduct, with penalties ranging from rustication to expulsion.

He disclosed that each department would adopt its own dress code, with the Architecture Department already mandating formal wear for part of the week.

On infrastructure and facilities, the Vice Chancellor said FUASK is working towards becoming fully ICT-driven and solar-powered to ensure an uninterrupted electricity supply.

He added that security measures have been prioritised, with a nearby military base and other arrangements put in place.

Prof. Qurix acknowledged the contributions of President Bola Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Governor Uba Sani, Minister of Education Maruf Tunji

Alausa, and Senator Sunday Katung, whose bill provided legal backing for the institution. He also recognised the support of Bishop Matthew Kukah, Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Christopher Musa, and other stakeholders.

National President of the Parents Association of Nigeria, Haruna Danjuma, described the university’s take-off as “a huge relief and a promise of brighter opportunities for Nigerian youths,” while pioneer visiting lecturer Prof. Alexander Kure said the project was “both exciting and challenging.”

For students like Bilqees Akunola, a Pharmacy undergraduate from Ogun State, being among the first to enrol is a significant opportunity. “Being a pioneer student is a privilege,” she said. “I look forward to learning in a place where technology and creativity are encouraged.”

Members of the Kachia community expressed optimism that FUASK would stimulate local commerce, create jobs, and transform the town into an emerging education hub.

FUASK was established under an Act of Parliament in 2025 following President Tinubu’s assent to a bill sponsored by Senator Katung, and it officially inherited the infrastructure of NOK University, which the federal government took over in 2024.