By Peter Amine
Sen. Simon Lalong (APC/Plateau South) on Friday lauded Federal Government siting a Study Centre of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) in Wase, Wase Local Government Area of Plateau.
Lalong, the immediate past governor of Plateau, gave the commendation during the Inauguration of the new study centre in Wase.
He stated that the establishment of the centre was significant for advancement of education, which is a key priority of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
The lawmaker pointed out that the centre, which was facilitated by Rep. Idris Wase, former Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, aligns with Tinubu’s administration’s policy thrust.
Lalong pointed out that the NOUN centre would benefit not only the people of Plateau but also those outside the state.
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He lauded Rep. Wase, who represents the Wase Federal Constituency, for attracting many federal institutions to Wase and Plateau.
He urged members of the community to continue to support the lawmaker as more development projects were expected in Wase.
Wase said in his remarks that they were working in alignment with Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda to ensure that every Nigerian improves their standard of living.
The former deputy speaker appreciated President Tinubu for creating an enabling environment for impactful projects such as the NOUN study centre to be executed.
“The learning centre will be used not only for the people of Plateau but also for those in Gombe, Taraba, and other places.
“We have been able to connect our people to national status and attracted a budget worth N77 billion Naira.
“We have also brought a learning institute to Bashar, another learning centre here in Wase, a Federal Medical Centre in Wase, and the National Orthopedic Hospital in Jos,” Wase listed.
He commended former governor Lalong for cooperating with him to attract these projects.
NOUN Vice Chancellor, Prof. Olufemi Peters, said the centre was designed to empower underserved populations by providing accessible educational resources and skill-building opportunities, breaking the cycle of poverty, and fostering sustainable livelihoods.
Peters, who was represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor Administration, Prof. Isaac Butswat, stated that it would promote social cohesion and community engagement, bridging divides within our diverse population.
“Furthermore, it catalyzes development by driving economic growth and improving the overall quality of life for our residents.
“The centre’s mission is threefold: to empower through education, foster community engagement, and facilitate sustainable development.
“It offers comprehensive educational programs from early childhood development to vocational training and adult literacy, aiming to help individuals reach their full potential.
“Workshops, cultural events, and civic dialogues will engage the community, fostering a sense of belonging and collective responsibility.
“Our initiatives focus on equipping the community with the knowledge and skills necessary for sustainable development, addressing local challenges, and creating lasting impact,” he added.
