The Federal University Lokoja (FUL) has organized a capacity building programme for staff of the Senate Affairs Division to strengthen their understanding of university administration, Senate responsibilities, and the academic traditions that guide the operations of the university system.

The Workshop, themed The Valued Traditions of University Administration in the 21st Century: X-raying the Senate as the Hub of University Academic Policies and Ceremonies, was held at the Old Administrative building Senate Conference Room.

Addressing participants, the Registrar, Dr. Rebecca Okojie urged members of staff to embrace continuous learning and take advantage of capacity building opportunities.

Dr. Okojie said regular training enhances professional competence, strengthens communication and public speaking skills, and prepares staff for greater responsibilities. She encouraged participants to apply the knowledge gained to improve service delivery.

Delivering the lecture, Mr. Shamaki Nuhu Kaje, FCIA, Senior Deputy Registrar (Senate) described the university as an institution established for teaching, research, and community service. He explained that research generates knowledge, teaching promotes learning, while community service applies knowledge to solving societal challenges.

He also examined the ownership structure of universities in Nigeria, comprising Federal, State, and Private institutions, and distinguished conventional universities from specialized universities established for technology, agriculture, medical sciences, maritime studies, transportation, military education, and policing.

Speaking on university governance, Mr. Kaje explained the responsibilities of the Chancellor, Pro-Chancellor, Governing Council, Senate, and the Registrar. He noted that the Chancellor confers degrees during convocation, while the Pro-Chancellor and Governing Council serve as the University's approving authority. He added that the Registrar, in line with the Registrar's Act 2015, serves as Secretary to the Senate, Governing Council, and Congregation.

Kaje described the Senate as the University's highest academic decision making body. He explained that the Senate formulates academic policies, maintains academic standards, regulates examinations, approves results, and oversees all academic matters.

He also highlighted the significance of university ceremonies such as matriculation and convocation, as well as academic regalia and ceremonial symbols including the university mace, academic hood, and cap, which reflect the institution's authority, heritage, and traditions.

Mr. Kaje urged the Senate Affairs staff to remain committed to professionalism, excellence, and continuous self-development. He stressed that their roles are critical to the effective administration of the University's academic system and encouraged them to uphold the highest standards in the discharge of their responsibilities.

© Directorate of Strategic Communication and Corporate Documentation
Federal University Lokoja