The West African Science Service Centre on Climate Change and Adapted Land Use, Climate Change and Human Habitat (WASCAL CC&HH) at the Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUT Minna) has officially welcomed its newly admitted Batch 6 students into the prestigious Postgraduate Programme in Climate Change and Human Habitat. The students were formally inducted during the 15th Meeting of the Academic Advisory Board held on Thursday, November 20, 2025, at the Centre’s Board Room on the university’s Main Campus.
The newly admitted students come from various countries across Africa, reflecting the Centre’s commitment to promoting regional integration and knowledge exchange in climate change and sustainable human habitat studies. Their presence underscores WASCAL’s growing reputation as a hub for advanced research and postgraduate training in environmental and climate sciences.
During the meeting, the Centre’s Director, Prof. Appollonia A. Okhimamhe, formally presented the students to the Academic Advisory Board. She highlighted the significance of welcoming new students into a programme designed to equip them with the skills, knowledge, and interdisciplinary expertise required to address pressing environmental challenges across the continent.
In his welcome address, the Chairman of the Board and Dean of the School of Postgraduate Studies, Prof. Abubakar N. Sa’idu, encouraged the students to maintain focus and dedication to their academic responsibilities. He stressed that discipline, integrity, and respect for the University’s rules and regulations are essential for academic success and personal growth within the programme.
Prof. Sa’idu emphasised that postgraduate studies at WASCAL require a high level of commitment. He urged students to prioritise their research and learning activities over non-academic engagements and reminded them that the programme is designed to challenge them intellectually and professionally.
The Dean highlighted WASCAL’s achievements over the years, including its successful hosting of external examiners and collaborations with renowned institutions and research centres. He described these milestones as indicators of FUT Minna’s increasing global visibility and its ability to attract talented students from diverse backgrounds.
Prof. Sa’idu assured the students of the University’s dedication to their safety, well-being, and academic development. He stated that a supportive and secure environment is crucial for fostering innovation, critical thinking, and the successful completion of research projects.
He further encouraged the students to actively engage with faculty members, seek mentorship, and participate in the Centre’s academic and social activities. According to him, building strong networks and relationships within the academic community will enhance their learning experience and professional growth.
The Academic Advisory Board meeting also served as a platform to outline the programme’s structure, including research expectations, internships, and collaborations with national and international partners. Prof. Sa’idu urged students to take advantage of these opportunities to develop practical skills and gain exposure to real-world challenges in climate and human habitat studies.
Addressing questions from the students, the Dean emphasised the importance of seeking guidance whenever necessary. He advised them to approach faculty members for advice on research methodologies, academic writing, and project execution to ensure they make informed decisions throughout their postgraduate journey.
The meeting reinforced FUT Minna’s position as a leading institution for climate and environmental research in West Africa. Prof. Sa’idu noted that WASCAL’s mission aligns with regional and global efforts to address climate change and promote sustainable development, positioning graduates as key contributors to solving environmental challenges.
Concluding his remarks, Prof. Sa’idu welcomed the Batch 6 students once again, urging them to approach their studies with diligence, curiosity, and a sense of responsibility. He expressed confidence that the cohort would excel academically and professionally, thereby contributing to WASCAL’s mission of building a generation of skilled African scientists committed to environmental stewardship and sustainable human habitat management.
