Dutse Federal Varsity Gets N1bn To Set Up Innovation Hubs, Parks
By: Ahmed Aminu, Dutse
The Territory Education Trust Fund (TETFund) has provided N1 billion to Federal University Dutse in Jigawa state for the establishment of innovation hubs and parks in the school.
This was contained in a press statement made available to The Syndicate in Dutse by the director public affairs on the university, Mr Abdullahi Yahaya Bello.
He said “the funds allocation was in a letter dated June 19, 2025, and signed by the Executive Secretary of TETFund, Arc. Sonny S.T. Echono, FNIA”.
Mr Bello reported the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Abdulkarim Sabo Mohammed as saying that FUD “is one of the few selected universities that will benefit from this significant initiative by TETFund”.
“The project aims to empower the University’s students, fostering their self-reliance and equipping them to become potential employers in their respective fields”.
The Vice Chancellor emphasized that the innovation hubs will promote a culture of innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship among students thereby enhancing economic growth and human capital development in Nigeria and beyond.
Prof. Sabo maintained that the innovation hubs will contains 14 components including Product Design Lab, a dynamic space where ideas evolve into tangible solutions, blending creativity with technical expertise.
He added that it will have a 3D Printing Lab for innovators, designers and engineers who seek to transform concept into three-dimensional reality. “The Lab will be equipped with cutting-edge 3D printing technology.
“And an array of digital sculpting tools and Software Lab for coding, experimentation and technological advancement. It will be equipped with state-of-the-art hardware and software resources.
“The software lab will provide an environment where software engineers can dive deep into coding, testing and refining digital products and services.”
He said other components of the innovation hub include Leathercraft Workshop to explore the rich world of leatherwork and bring artistic vision to life.
There is also the Bio-Technology Lab to unlock the mysteries of life through advanced biotechnological tools and techniques and Embedded Systems, while the Coding Lab is going to be equipped with state-of-the-art kits software and hands-on tools.
“The lab will be a centre for aspiring programmers, engineers, and tech enthusiasts.
“The Electronics Lab will be offering experts’ recommendations for electronic needs of various projects and prototype developed at the hub.
“Also Textile and Fashion Design: In this workshop, designers, artists and visionaries can collaborate to elevate aesthetics in fashion and design. This workshop will allow for experimentation through traditional techniques and digital practices.
He added that in the ‘Upcycling and Recycling Workshop, ‘waste items will find a second chance as they are repurposed into functional and valuable items, art pieces, furniture and more, while the Eco Lab will focus on tackling environmental challenges through upcycling, recycling, sustainable architecture, advanced materials and circular economy principles.
“It will serve as a hands-on space for research, collaboration and innovation, transforming ideas into impactful ecological solutions.
‘The Refrigeration and Air-conditioning (RAC) Lab is going to be a dynamic workstation where the mechanisms behind are dissected for better understanding and improvement with aid of stimulators and demonstrators. With modern equipment and stimulation tools, this lab empowers innovators to develop RAC systems and devices.
There will also be a Metal Workshop ‘where metals are fabricated into functional pieces and creativity takes shape through the mastery of metal,” he said.
Prof. Sabo noted that “there is also Wood Workshop that would serve as a haven for artisans, designers and woodworking enthusiasts. With an array of precision tools and top-tier equipment, space empowers creators and technicians to transform wood into intricate pieces of art, functional furniture and architectural marvels.
“The Sustainable Energy lab is going to be equipped with cutting-edge technology, demonstrators and stimulators. The space will empower innovators to understand, experiment and refine sustainable energy solutions.
He added that there would be showrooms to bring together the remarkable outcomes of various programs and initiatives, offering a glimpse into future shaped by technology, craftsmanship and visionary thinking.
According to the vice chancellor, upon completion of this project, ‘FUD will become an environment that brings together exceptional talent and skilled professionals among staff, students and the general public through providing access to mentorship, expert guidance, networking opportunities, and state-of-the-art technology—each of which is essential for turning innovative ideas into reality”.
