October 03, (THEWILL) – The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Maiduguri, Prof. Mohammed Laminu Mele, has urged students of English and Literary Studies at the institution to reinvent the values the department is known for.
Prof. Mele stated this while speaking to a delegation of the Executive Council of the National Association of Students of English and Literary Studies (NASELS) during a courtesy visit following his appointment as the substantive Vice-Chancellor of the prestigious institution.
He reiterated his commitment to promoting a culture of reading and writing among the students as part of efforts to contribute to their overall development.
Prof. Mele underscored the importance of resuming the publication of student magazines, a platform that allows students to showcase their literary and intellectual skills.
According to him, such initiatives would not only enhance the academic environment but also promote a culture of reading and writing among the students, contributing to their overall development.
He assured furthering the academic and extracurricular development of the students within the department and the university at large.
The VC pledged to renovate the NASELS secretariat, a long-awaited project that is expected to provide a conducive environment for the students to engage in various academic and social activities.
He also reaffirmed his commitment to supporting students of English and Literary Studies, stating that his administration would work closely with the department to ensure the betterment of students’ experience at the university.
Prof. Mele encouraged the EXCOs to revive several NASELS activities that had been dormant in recent years.
He advised students on the importance of leadership, urging the NASELS EXCOs to lead by example and work tirelessly for the benefit of their peers.
The VC emphasised the role of student associations in shaping the character and future of young intellectuals, reminding them that their efforts today would have a lasting impact on the university community.
Responding, the President of NASELS, Comrade Gideon Irmiya, expressed the association’s deep appreciation for the Vice-Chancellor’s words of encouragement and his continued support. He assured Prof. Mele that NASELS was committed to reviving its activities and contributing positively to the academic and social life of the university.
He noted that Prof. Mele, who is not only the Vice-Chancellor but also the patron of NASELS, warmly welcomed the delegation and expressed his gratitude for their thoughtfulness in his address to the students’ representatives.
“On behalf of the entire students of English and Literary Studies, we are honoured to have you as our patron and Vice-Chancellor. Your support means a lot to us, and we are confident that under your leadership, our department and the university will achieve greater heights,” Irmiya said.
