In the name of Allah, who ordains the alternation of night and day, and by whose mercy we are alive today, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Him for making this day possible.  

All praise and thanks are due to Allah for granting us the privilege to gather here in celebration of these young men and women who have persevered through years of academic challenges to achieve bachelor's and graduate degrees in their respective fields.  

Your Excellencies, Royal Highnesses, distinguished guests, esteemed graduates and their families, members of the press, ladies, and gentlemen,  

On behalf of Al-Qalam University Katsina, I warmly welcome you all to our 16th Convocation Ceremony. Your presence here today is a testament to your support for education and development, and we sincerely appreciate your positive response to our invitation.  

This ceremony celebrates the graduates of the 2023-2024 academic session. At Al-Qalam University, we adhere to the global academic tradition of hosting annual convocation ceremonies, ensuring that our graduates promptly receive their degrees and certificates.  

  

The activities marking this year’s convocation began on Monday, December 2, with the Vice-Chancellor's press briefing. On Wednesday, December 4, we hosted a novelty football match between alumni and current students. On Thursday, December 5, the finals of the Qur’an recitation competition took place, where Usman Farooq Yahuza emerged as the overall winner, receiving the prestigious Malam Aminu Alhassan Dantata Prize of 1 million Naira.  

On Friday, December 6, we held the convocation lecture titled “The Unfolding Liberalization and Taxing Funds in Nigeria: Our Economic Realities Consistent with Policy Direction” delivered by the esteemed Professor Ahmad Dogarawa.  

As we approach our 20th anniversary in January 2025, we reflect on the remarkable journey of Al-Qalam University, established in 2005 with just four academic programs. Today, the university proudly offers 30 undergraduate programs across five colleges and 66 postgraduate programs, demonstrating significant growth and commitment to academic excellence.  

We remain indebted to individuals and institutions that have supported our infrastructural development, notably Malam Aminu Alhassan Dantata, the Central Bank of Nigeria, and the Africa Initiative. However, there remains much to be done. We appeal to well-spirited individuals and organizations to support critical projects such as our library expansion, a university auditorium, additional student hostels, staff offices, and the completion of our multipurpose science laboratory.  

This year, 1,433 graduates will receive their bachelor's degrees, with 22 students earning first-class honors. The prestigious Al-Qalam University Katsina Prize for the best graduating students in each of the five colleges will also be awarded.  

Furthermore, the university will confer honorary doctorate degrees on four distinguished Nigerians who have made significant contributions to society: Former Governor of Katsina state, President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua (posthumously), Late Sani Buhari Walin Daura, Alhaji Bilya Sanda Khadimul Islam and Alhaji Dahiru Barau Mangal. 

A Message to the Graduates

 

To our esteemed graduates, I extend my heartfelt congratulations on your achievements. This milestone is not just a testament to your hard work but also a foundation for the future. I urge you to seek opportunities that align with your skills, create a niche for yourselves, and remain ambassadors of Al-Qalam University. Uphold the values of character and learning that the university has instilled in you.  

I express my profound gratitude to the founders, Board of Trustees, Governing Council, staff, and students of Al-Qalam University. Your dedication and support are the pillars of our success. May Allah (SWT) continue to guide and bless us all.  

Wassalamu alaikum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh.