Dr. Dele Alake backs Nigeria’s first Gemology department at Yakubu Gowon University, aimed at enhancing skills in the mining sector. The initiative is seen as key to developing the local talent pool and advancing the industry’s growth and contribution to the economy.
In a significant move for Nigeria’s mining sector, Dr. Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, has expressed strong support for the new Department of Gemology and Gemstones at Yakubu Gowon University in Abuja. This is notable as it’s the first of its kind in all of Africa, marking a crucial development in the region’s academic landscape.
During a recent meeting with a university delegation, including Prof. Adesoji Adesugba, Dr. Alake referred to the department as a “vital hub of knowledge” for professionals involved in the gemstone and jewellery industries. The minister highlighted that this initiative would help bolster Nigeria’s mining sector by creating a new generation of skilled workers vital for the industry’s growth.
Dr. Alake further called the establishment of Africa’s first formal Gemology curriculum a remarkable milestone and asserted, “The university’s initiative is a commendable leap forward.” This investment in talent development is seen as foundational for fostering long-term progress and innovation in the mining field.
Prof. Adesugba, reflecting on the importance of these reforms, lauded Dr. Alake’s approach, suggesting that it has significantly repositioned the mining sector for sustainable growth. He also sought support for formal affiliation with the Gemological Institute of Nigeria while emphasising the potential for the department to enhance mining’s contribution to Nigeria’s GDP.
In a promising response, Dr. Alake committed to fully support this proposed affiliation. He urged other educational institutions to emulate Yakubu Gowon University by introducing mining-centric courses into their curricula. He stated, “If we are to build local capacity, we must invest in training at home.”
Dr. Alake’s media representative, Segun Tomori, emphasised the importance of the new department in gemology and jewellery production, indicating ongoing plans to establish comprehensive mining universities as well. Prof. Adesugba was accompanied by notable faculty members during the visit, highlighting the university’s collaborative spirit.
The establishment of the Department of Gemology and Gemstones at Yakubu Gowon University represents a pioneering step in Africa’s mining education and capacity building. With strong backing from Minister Dr. Dele Alake, this initiative aims to cultivate a skilled workforce to advance Nigeria’s mining industry. Further affiliations and reforms are anticipated to strengthen the sector’s contribution to the economy.
Original Source: guardian.ng