The National Association of Plateau State Students (NAPSS) University of Jos chapter has honoured the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Jos, Professor Tanko Ishaya, with the Academic Leadership Excellence Award in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the growth and transformation of the institution.
The award was presented during the association’s Annual Cultural Day held, at the Faculty of Social Sciences Auditorium, Naraguta Campus.
This was contained in a statement by the institution’s spokesman, Mr. Emmanuel Madugu.
The association stressed that the honour was bestowed on Professor Ishaya for positioning the University of Jos as one of Nigeria’s most preferred destinations for international students through purposeful leadership and sustained academic reforms.
The Mr. Madugu said the executive members of NAPSS had paid a courtesy visit to the VC where they highlighted other reasons for the award, including the cordial relationship between the university management and students, even in moments of disagreement.
He added that association further commended the successful hosting of the 27th Nigeria University Games Association (NUGA) Games – the first to be held by the University of Jos and in the North-Central region – under the stewardship of Prof. Ishaya.
According to the statement, Professor Ishaya described the recognition as particularly meaningful because it came from the students, whom he described as the direct beneficiaries of every university administration.
“I cherish this award because it is coming from the students, who are the direct beneficiaries of our policies and programmes,” he said.
The VC also commended the association for promoting Plateau state’s rich cultural heritage, stressing that societies that neglect their culture risk losing their identity.
Professor Ishaya was accompanied by his wife, Justice Sharon Ishaya, to receive the award.
The Dean of Student Affairs, Professor Chris Piwuna, alongside other university officials, students, and invited guests, also witnessed the presentation.