The Forum of Southern Kaduna Professors (FOSKAP) has strongly criticized opposition to the establishment of the Federal University of Applied Sciences in Kachia, Kaduna State. Critics of the proposed institution have cited inadequate funding for tertiary education as a reason to oppose the project. However, FOSKAP insists that this argument is misguided and detrimental to the region’s educational development.

Speaking on behalf of FOSKAP, its chairman, Professor John Gambo Laah, dismissed concerns over funding, noting that all Nigerian universities, public and private, face financial challenges. He argued that rejecting the new university under the guise of underutilization of existing institutions would not resolve these funding issues. Prof. Laah emphasized that the establishment of the university would address long-standing disparities in educational access in Southern Kaduna.

The professors also criticized a recent editorial in a national newspaper opposing the university, describing it as an attempt to undermine progress in the region. Prof. Laah stated, “The argument that the government cannot afford to establish the Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia, is both discriminatory and regressive. Every Nigerian deserves equal access to education, and denying Southern Kaduna this opportunity perpetuates inequality.”

FOSKAP further highlighted that Southern Kaduna remains one of the least developed areas in Nigeria in terms of educational infrastructure. Prof. Laah called on the Federal Government to disregard opposition and prioritize the establishment of the university, which he said would significantly reduce the educational gap and empower the region’s youth for a better future.