Alumni, students condemn Jalingo medicine college provost over declining standard

Alumni of the College of Nursing Science, Jalingo, and students have denounced the leadership of the college provost, Mrs. Esther Gana.

Their response comes after a group identifying itself as the “Concerned Youths Group” (TCYG) described criticism of the provost as “mischievous.”

The alumni dismissed TCYG’s claims as baseless propaganda, labeling the group as enemies of the institution’s progress, in a statement yesterday made available to journalists in Jalingo, the state capital.

They said, “We categorically debunk the statement by TCYG and dissociate ourselves from their mischievous narrative. With due respect, Mama Provost, it is time to step aside.”

Citing numerous challenges under the incumbent leadership of the institution, the group highlighted issues of student frustration, allegations of misconduct, financial exploitation, and lack of academic and infrastructural development.

They specifically pointed to the institution’s poor performance in the November 2024 Nursing Council examinations, where only 8% of students passed.

“The evidence speaks for itself,” the decline in the institution’s academic standards, as made known in the statement, “is undeniable, and the Provost has failed to create an enabling study environment for students to succeed.”

The group called on the provost to publish the results of final qualifying Nursing Council examinations from the past two years to provide a transparent account of the college’s performance.

They also criticized the alleged misuse of college funds for propaganda instead of addressing pressing issues.

“We fear that these trends mirror the circumstances that previously led to the college losing accreditation and facing a decade-long admission embargo. History must not repeat itself,” they warned.

They urged the public to disregard TCYG’s claims, emphasizing that the criticisms of the provost were based on evidence and factual concerns.

They appealed to the state governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas to intervene and address the looming crisis, which they believe could tarnish the achievements of his administration.

“As alumni, we remain committed to advocating for transparency, accountability, and excellence in our alma mater,” the group said.