The Rector of Auchi Polytechnic, Dr. Shehu S. Umar, has announced remarkable strides in academic excellence and institutional development, revealing that over 230 teaching staff now possess Masters and PhD degrees, with nearly half of them sponsored by the institution during his tenure.
Dr. Umar made the disclosure while speaking with journalists in his office as he reflected on key achievements since assuming office.
He noted that the polytechnic previously offered fewer than 60 academic programmes, which has now expanded to 96, accompanied by the creation of additional new schools. To strengthen the institution’s financial base beyond reliance on student enrolment, the rector initiated several revenue-generating projects, including the establishment of a Microfinance Bank, the conversion of the guest house into viable public-private partnership initiatives, pure water and bread bakery factories, paint and block industries, a printing press, welding and fabrication workshop, as well as mechanic and automobile workshops equipped for commercial operations.
These initiatives, according to Dr. Umar, have substantially boosted the polytechnic’s internally generated revenue.
The rector, whose tenure is expected to end in February 2027, expressed profound gratitude to the management, staff, and students for their unwavering support and cooperation. He also thanked the host communities for the peaceful coexistence that has existed between the institution, its staff, and students.
Dr. Umar recalled his long-standing connection with Auchi, having served there as a youth corps member, staff member, and now as rector. He expressed appreciation to the traditional ruler, HRH Alhaji H. A. Momoh, Ikelebe II, the Otaru of Auchi Sacred Kingdom, for conferring on him the prestigious title of Giwa of Auchi Sacred Kingdom.
Listing some of his verifiable achievements, the rector highlighted the establishment of the Microfinance Bank, construction of a 1.1km road linking Campuses 2 and 3 for improved student safety, the launch of the National Skills Qualification (NSQ) programme with state-of-the-art equipment, and the historic commencement of the Open, Distance and Flexible E-Learning Centre.
Other milestones include the addition of 10 degree programmes in affiliation with Federal University Lokoja, the creation of a students’ portal for results and ID card registration, construction of a 250-seat twin capacity lecture theatre and computer laboratories, remodeling of the School of ICT, and the sponsorship of over 150 staff for advanced degrees.
Dr. Umar advised future rectors to embrace teamwork and collaboration for the continued growth of the institution. He credited his open-door approach and relationship-building with individuals for attracting major projects such as the Apostle Johnson Suleiman E-Learning Centre, the Auchi Polytechnic Ultra-Modern Laundry, and the Dr. Ebenezer Onyeagwu Ultra-Modern Lecture Theatre.