The National Universities Commission (NUC) says it is
expanding academic programmes in emerging fields such as energy science and data science to equip Nigerian graduates with skills relevant to the future.
The Executive Secretary of the NUC, Prof. Abdullahi Ribadu, made this known on Wednesday during the induction of the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) Split‑Site Ph.D. Scholarship candidates at the College of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Kaduna (CPESK).
“This move is aimed at preparing Nigerian graduates for the evolving global energy landscape and digital economy,” he said.
Ribadu explained that curriculum development in the university system was a continuous process shaped by technological advancements and industry needs. He added that the commission had developed an Artificial Intelligence (AI) policy for tertiary institutions, which was currently undergoing stakeholder review.
According to him, the policy will support the integration of AI into teaching, research and institutional operations.
The NUC boss reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to innovation, curriculum relevance and the global competitiveness of Nigerian graduates. He also commended the PTDF for its sustained investment in human capital development, as CPESK inducted 43 candidates into its first Ph.D. cohort.
“The induction is a milestone for the scholars and the nation’s university system,” he said.
Ribadu noted that the establishment of CPESK would strengthen postgraduate training and research, particularly in the oil and gas sector. He said the college would help build local expertise, reduce reliance on foreign training and maintain global standards through strategic partnerships.
He highlighted the collaboration between the NUC and PTDF, stressing that both organisations remained committed to developing high‑quality human capital for national growth.
Ribadu also said the recent approval granted to CPESK to operate as a private university underscored efforts to build sustainable capacity in line with global best practices.
He urged the newly inducted scholars to justify their selection and serve as worthy ambassadors of the programme and the country.
“As pioneers, your contributions will shape the reputation and impact of the institution. You must show diligence and responsibility,” he said.
He reaffirmed the commission’s support for the programme and wished the scholars success in their academic pursuits.
The CPESK Split‑Site Ph.D. Scholarship Programme is part of PTDF’s strategy to develop high‑level manpower for Nigeria’s petroleum and energy sector. The model provides scholars with both local and international training, including exposure to partner institutions such as the University of Strathclyde, Robert Gordon University and the University of Portsmouth in the United Kingdom.
