Professor Mukhtar Atiku Kurawa has officially concluded his tenure as Vice Chancellor of Northwest University Kano, formerly known as Yusuf Maitama Sule University, marking the end of a landmark administration that redefined the institution’s academic and infrastructural landscape. His exit comes after years of remarkable accomplishments that elevated the university’s profile among Nigeria’s leading public institutions.
During his tenure, Professor Kurawa spearheaded unprecedented growth and innovation, driving the university toward excellence through visionary leadership and strategic planning. His administration’s impact was visible in academic expansion, infrastructural advancement, and the strengthening of institutional structures to promote sustainable development.
One of his most celebrated achievements was the establishment of over fifteen new undergraduate programmes, including Medicine and Surgery (MBBS) and Law. These additions significantly enhanced the university’s academic standing, diversified its faculties, and broadened opportunities for students seeking professional careers in high-demand fields.
Professor Kurawa also championed the creation and successful takeoff of the Postgraduate School, which opened new frontiers for advanced research and intellectual development. This milestone positioned Northwest University as a hub for postgraduate scholarship and contributed to the production of high-level manpower for the nation’s socio-economic growth.
In a bid to promote flexible learning opportunities, his administration introduced Part-Time Degree Programmes. This initiative provided access to quality education for working-class individuals and other non-traditional students, aligning with the national goal of widening participation in higher education.
Another pioneering stride under his leadership was the approval and establishment of the Non-Interest (Islamic) Microfinance Bank (YUMSUK MFB). The bank became a model of ethical financial management within the Nigerian university system, offering staff, students, and community members financial services consistent with Islamic banking principles.
The completion and commissioning of a Central Mosque for the university community stood out as a spiritual and cultural milestone. The mosque not only enhanced the campus environment but also strengthened the moral and religious values of staff and students, fostering a sense of unity and inclusiveness.
Addressing students’ welfare, Professor Kurawa initiated multiple hostel development projects to tackle accommodation challenges. His efforts led to the construction of new student housing facilities, significantly reducing the burden of off-campus living and improving campus life.
The establishment of a Staff School was another major achievement of his administration. The school catered to the educational needs of staff families and the surrounding community, reinforcing the university’s commitment to social responsibility and community service.
Beyond physical and academic projects, Professor Kurawa’s leadership was characterized by transparency, accountability, and commitment to excellence. He promoted institutional stability, fostered collaboration with local and international partners, and created an enabling environment for teaching, research, and innovation.
Stakeholders within the university community including academic staff, students, and non-academic employees have described his tenure as a model of effective leadership and institutional transformation. Many praised his ability to balance development priorities with human-centered administration.
As the university prepares to usher in a new Vice Chancellor, tributes continue to pour in celebrating Professor Kurawa’s outstanding legacy. His leadership not only repositioned Northwest University Kano for national and international recognition but also set a benchmark for future administrations to follow.
Professor Kurawa leaves behind a record of excellence that reflects dedication, foresight, and a deep commitment to education as a tool for societal advancement. His tenure is widely regarded as one that transformed the university from a growing institution into a beacon of academic progress and infrastructural strength.
