Dr Dele Alake, Minister of Solid Minerals Development, endorses the launch of Africa’s first Gemmology and Gemstones Department at Yakubu Gowon University in Abuja, which aims to build capacity in the mining sector. The initiative boasts a formal academic curriculum, fostering a skilled workforce for industry growth. Ministerial support may lead to partnerships with other institutions, bolstering mining’s economic role in Nigeria.
Dr Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, recently praised the launch of Africa’s inaugural Department of Gemmology and Gemstones at Yakubu Gowon University in Abuja. This is a strategic effort aimed at enhancing capacity in Nigeria’s mining sector and promoting innovation through education, according to the Minister.
During a meeting with the university delegation led by Professor Adesoji Adesugba, Alake identified the new department as a critical educational hub for professionals engaged in the gemstone and jewellery-making sectors. He remarked, “The university’s initiative is a commendable leap forward. By building a strong talent pool, we are laying the foundation for long-term development and innovation in mining.”
As noted by Segun Tomori, the Minister’s Special Assistant on Media, Dr Alake marked the establishment of Africa’s first structured curriculum in gemmology as a significant milestone for the entire industry. He stressed that this programme is essential for cultivating a skilled workforce capable of advancing the mining sector in Nigeria.
Professor Adesugba reflected on the positive impact of the Minister’s reforms in the solid minerals sector, claiming they have notably improved the industry’s outlook for sustainable growth. He requested ministerial assistance to secure a formal partnership between the university and the Gemological Institute of Nigeria, reaffirming the department’s dedication to supporting the Ministry’s goals of enhancing mining’s economic impact.
In turn, Dr Alake assured his backing for the proposed partnership and encouraged more institutions to adopt similar mining-focused curricula. “To build local capacity, we must invest in training at home. Your department is crucial in that direction, especially in gemmology and jewellery production. We are also working towards establishing full-fledged universities of mining, and your input will be invaluable,” he pointed out.
Joining Professor Adesugba in the courtesy visit were several notable individuals, including Professor Aminu Dankishiya, Dean of Science; Dr Tinuke Temitope, Registrar of the Gemological Institute of Nigeria; and Dr Aminu Isyaku, Head of the Department of Geology and Mining, among others.
The launch of the Department of Gemmology and Gemstones at Yakubu Gowon University represents a key advancement in Nigeria’s educational and mining sectors. The initiative aims to bolster skilled workforce capacity, aligning with national growth strategies. Minister Dr Alake’s support highlights the importance of local training and collaboration with established institutions, fostering a potentially transformative impact on the industry.
Original Source: leadership.ng