Dr. Dele Alake, Minister of Solid Minerals Development, supports the creation of Africa’s first Gemology Department at Yakubu Gowon University, emphasizing its role in strengthening Nigeria’s mining sector. The new curriculum aims to cultivate expertise within the gemstone and jewellery-making industry, contributing to the country’s economic growth.
The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has thrown his weight behind the establishment of the Department of Gemology and Gemstones at Yakubu Gowon University in Abuja. This department is set to be groundbreaking, marking the first of its kind in Africa. It aligns well with Alake’s vision for boosting capacity building within Nigeria’s mining landscape.
During a meeting with a delegation from the department, which was led by Prof. Adesoji Adesugba, Alake highlighted the importance of this initiative. He referred to the department as a crucial knowledge centre for professionals engaged in the gemstone and jewellery sectors, believing it would foster a new wave of experts in the industry.
Alake celebrated the landmark creation of Africa’s first formal Gemology curriculum, stating, “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.”
In his comments, Prof. Adesugba commended the minister’s reforms, asserting they have reframed the sector for sustainable progress. He urged the minister for assistance in securing an affiliation between the university and the Gemological Institute of Nigeria, while promising the department would contribute to enhancing the mining sector’s role in Nigeria’s GDP.
Alake responded positively, saying he would fully support the affiliation and encouraged other universities to adopt similar mining-focused programs. “If we are to build local capacity, we must invest in training at home. Your department is a crucial step in that direction, especially in gemology and jewellery production,” he stated, adding that establishing dedicated mining universities is also on the agenda.
Prof. Adesugba was joined by several dignitaries during the visit, including Prof. Aminu Dankishiya, Dean of Science; Dr. Tinuke Temitope, Registrar of the Gemological Institute of Nigeria; and Dr. Aminu Isyaku, Head of Geology and Mining.
Dr. Dele Alake’s backing of the new Department of Gemology at Yakubu Gowon University is a significant step for Nigeria’s mining sector. The minister’s support underscores the importance of local training to enhance skills in the gemstone industry. With the establishment of Africa’s first Gemology curriculum, Nigeria is poised for a stronger mining future, aiming to cultivate a skilled workforce and drive economic growth.
Original Source: www.thisdaylive.com