Ihugh is rising — The future is here

Nigeria

From the VC’s conner

From the fertile cassava, sweet potato, and orange fields of Vandeikya emerges a new beacon of hope and progress—the Benue State Government’s University of Agriculture, Science and Technology (UAST) in Ihugh. 

“This institution is not merely an academic center; it is a vibrant engine of innovation, development, and transformation positioned at the heart of Benue’s renowned Food Basket. Here, a vision is taking root that promises to revolutionize education, agriculture, and community life in Benue State and beyond, says Professor Qrissturberg Amua, Vice Chancellor, UAST, Ihugh.

UAST Ihugh stands as more than just a university—it is a forge for ideas, a farm for innovation, and a marketplace for the future. As students and faculty come together on this campus, they are planting seeds of creativity and knowledge that will grow far beyond the classroom. The university’s unique approach integrates rigorous academic inquiry with hands-on agricultural practice, ensuring that its output is solutions tailored to the realities of the region. This fusion of theory and practice is what sets UAST apart as a truly transformative institution.

At Ihugh, growth is measured not only in crops harvested but in dreams realized. The university is building a Knowledge City—a sprawling megalopolis at the nexus of agriculture, technology, and education. This Knowledge City is designed to feed not just bodies but minds, to fuel vibrant businesses, and to bring about socio-economic renewal. Its impact will ripple through Vandeikya, Konshisha, Ushongo, Kwande, and across the entire Benue North-East Senatorial District, radiating progress throughout Benue State.

This ambitious effort is the dawn of a renaissance—a revival that pays homage to the aspirations of the first democratically elected governor of Benue State, the late Apollos Aper Aku, may his soul rest in peace. Governor Aper Aku envisioned a Benue transformed by education and agricultural prowess, a vision stalled by the interruptions of military rule but never extinguished. Today, through UAST Ihugh, his dream is being resurrected with more vigor and clarity than ever before.

The university’s ethos is encapsulated in three powerful pillars: knowledge that works on the farm and is refined in the lab; jobs that grow from lecture theatres and blossom into thriving communities; and opportunities that keep the youth anchored at home while inviting global collaboration. This holistic vision ensures that education here is deeply relevant and responsive to the needs of society. Graduates from UAST will not simply earn certificates—they will emerge as innovators, problem-solvers, and leaders ready to tackle real-world challenges.

Under the inspiring leadership of His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, the Executive Governor of Benue State, the university is witnessing rapid progress. Governor Alia has planted the seed that reflects the foundational dream of Apollos Aper Aku and is committed to nurturing it to maturity. His visionary administration provides the necessary resources and support, ensuring that UAST Ihugh becomes a beacon of excellence for agricultural science and technology, driving inclusive development for all Benue people.

The impact of UAST Ihugh extends beyond academics and agriculture; it promises a comprehensive socio-economic transformation. By cultivating new industries, fostering entrepreneurship, and enhancing food security, the university acts as a catalyst for sustainable development in the region. It serves as a crossroads where tradition meets modernity, where local knowledge blends with cutting-edge science, all aimed at creating a prosperous and resilient Benue State.

In conclusion, the rise of UAST Ihugh heralds an exciting future for Benue State—a future built on innovation, education, and community empowerment. From the humble fields of cassava and oranges to the vibrant halls of the university, a new narrative is unfolding—one of hope, progress, and sustainable development. This is a call to all stakeholders—students, educators, farmers, entrepreneurs, and policymakers—to join in nurturing this dream. The future is here, in Ihugh, and it promises a harvest that will feed the world.

— Prof. Qrisstuberg M. Amua
Vice-Chancellor, UAST Ihugh

Article sent by Correspondent Dooyum Naadzenga