Overview and History of Taraba State University, Jalingo

 
##Introduction
Taraba State University (TSU) is a public institution of higher learning situated in Jalingo, Taraba State, Nigeria. Established in 2008 by the Taraba State Government, the university was founded to expand educational opportunities for residents of the state while contributing to both regional and national development. Through its commitment to academic excellence and research, TSU plays a crucial role in fostering economic growth and human capital development.

The university operates under the motto "Harnessing Nature's Gift" and is officially accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC). The institution is currently led by Prof. Sunday Paul Bako, who serves as the Vice-Chancellor, while Jeremiah Useni holds the position of Chancellor. TSU’s urban campus provides a conducive learning environment, offering diverse academic programs designed to equip students with knowledge and skills relevant to global and local challenges.

The university presently maintain this website www.tsuniversity.edu.ng as their official Website.

##History and Establishment of Taraba State University
Taraba State University was established in 2008 by the Taraba State Government under the leadership of then-Governor Danbaba Suntai. The university was founded to address the increasing demand for higher education within the state and to provide access to quality tertiary education for indigenes and non-indigenes alike.

The institution was envisioned as a center for academic excellence, research, and community development, with a mission to produce graduates who would contribute meaningfully to society. Over the years, the university has expanded in terms of infrastructure, academic programs, and student population.

##Vice-Chancellors and Leadership
The first Vice-Chancellor of Taraba State University was Dr. Ahmed Usman Jalingo, who served from 2008 to 2010. Unfortunately, he passed away in March 2011. Following his tenure, Prof. Michael Noku was appointed as Acting Vice-Chancellor until January 2012, when Prof. Mohammed Sani Yahaya assumed office as the second substantive Vice-Chancellor.

In October 2016, Dr. Catherine Musa Ashashim took over as Acting Vice-Chancellor, serving until February 28, 2017. On March 1, 2017, Prof. Vincent Ado Tenebe was appointed as the third substantive Vice-Chancellor of the university.

Subsequently, on March 1, 2022, Prof. Sunday Paul Bako took over as the Vice-Chancellor and remains the current head of the institution.

##Convocation
In the year 2018, Taraba State University held its inaugural convocation ceremony, which encompassed graduates from its first five cohorts, amounting to a total of 5,900 students. Among them, 29 students achieved First-Class Honours, while 1,006 earned Second-Class Upper Division. Additionally, 2,083 were awarded Second-Class Lower Division, 1,850 obtained Third-Class Honours, and 32 graduated with a Pass.

By 2022, the university had successfully organized its 6th, 7th, 8th, and 9th joint convocation ceremonies, during which a total of 8,585 students graduated. This included 49 First-Class Honours recipients, 2,416 Second-Class Upper Division graduates, 3,983 Second-Class Lower Division awardees, 790 Third-Class Honours recipients, and 20 graduates with a Pass. Additionally, the institution had conferred 106 Postgraduate Diplomas, 311 Master’s Degrees, and awarded its first-ever PhD degree to Hanawa Herbert Rufus, marking a historic milestone for Taraba State University.

The event also featured the presentation of Honorary Doctorate Degrees to four distinguished individuals who have made significant contributions to society. These recipients included Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, the then Executive Governor of Delta State; Hon. Justice Mahmud Mohammed, a former Chief Justice of Nigeria; Alhaji Najeem Usman Yasin, who served as Deputy President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Global Vice President of the International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF), and former President of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW); and Major General Paul Tarfa (Rtd.), who held the position of Executive Chairman of the North East Development Commission (NEDC).

##Academic Structure and Faculties
Taraba State University operates a faculty-based system, offering undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines. The university is structured into multiple faculties, including:

Faculty of Agriculture: Offering programs in Agricultural Economics, Animal Science, Crop Production, and more.

Faculty of Arts: Encompassing disciplines such as English, History, and Linguistics.

Faculty of Education: Training future educators in various fields.

Faculty of Engineering: Covering Civil, Electrical, and Mechanical Engineering.

Faculty of Science: Offering programs in Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Biological Sciences.

Faculty of Social and Management Sciences: Including Economics, Political Science, Business Administration, and related fields.

Faculty of Health Sciences: Offering programs like Nursing and Medical Laboratory Science.

Each faculty is headed by a Dean and supported by Heads of Departments (HODs) who oversee academic activities and curriculum development.

##Accreditation and Academic Recognition
Taraba State University is recognized by the National Universities Commission (NUC), which accredits its academic programs to ensure they meet national and international standards. The university continuously strives to expand its accreditation portfolio by introducing new programs that align with global educational trends and societal needs.

Over the years, the university has strengthened its academic credibility by partnering with research institutions, securing grants, and improving faculty qualifications.

##Student Population and Campus Life
TSU has witnessed significant growth in student enrollment since its establishment. The university attracts students from across Nigeria, offering a diverse and inclusive academic environment.

Campus life at TSU is vibrant, with numerous student organizations, cultural groups, and sports activities that provide a holistic university experience. The Students' Union Government (SUG) plays an essential role in representing student interests and facilitating engagement between the administration and students.

##Infrastructure and Facilities
The university has made substantial investments in infrastructure, including:

Modern lecture halls and classrooms equipped with ICT facilities.

Well-stocked libraries to support academic research and learning.

Laboratories for science and engineering students.

Student hostels to accommodate on-campus residents.

Recreational and sports facilities to promote physical fitness and extracurricular activities.

Health and medical services for students and staff.


##Research and Community Engagement
As part of its mandate, TSU encourages research and innovation. Faculty members and students engage in research projects aimed at solving real-world problems, particularly in agriculture, environmental sciences, and technology.

The university also engages in community outreach programs, partnering with government and private organizations to implement developmental projects in Taraba State.

##Challenges and Future Prospects
Like many public universities in Nigeria, TSU faces challenges such as inadequate funding, infrastructure deficits, and occasional industrial actions. However, efforts are being made to address these issues through increased government support, private sector involvement, and alternative funding sources.

The future of Taraba State University looks promising, with plans for expansion, curriculum improvement, and international collaborations. The university remains committed to producing graduates equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in their careers and contribute positively to society.