By Suleiman Abubakar MAPSA
The transformative leadership of Ishaya A. Awotu, FCA, at the College of Education, Akwanga, has earned him a well-deserved reappointment as the Governing Council Chairman. Widely regarded as a visionary leader and a relentless reformer, Awotu’s reappointment signals the continuation of his impactful initiatives and the expectation of even greater achievements for the College’s growth.
Since his initial appointment in September 2020 by His Excellency, Engr. Abdullahi A. Sule, Awotu has redefined leadership at the institution through his unwavering commitment to resolving systemic challenges, improving staff and student welfare, enhancing academic standards, and promoting transparency in governance.
Restoring Institutional Order and Advancing Systemic Reforms
Awotu’s first tenure was marked by resolute efforts to address deeply-rooted issues at the College. Guided by three comprehensive White Papers, Awotu tackled longstanding challenges, including delayed staff promotions, unpaid allowances, understaffing, and inadequate medical services. His proactive measures transformed these challenges into catalysts for institutional reform and set the stage for sustainable growth.
His reappointment is anticipated to consolidate these gains, with a continued focus on operational efficiency, enhanced service delivery, and greater collaboration with College stakeholders.
Commitment to Staff and Student Welfare
Recognizing the essential role of both staff and students in the success of the College, Awotu has consistently prioritized their welfare. During his tenure, long overdue allowances, such as Responsibility, Hazard, and Security Allowances, were promptly implemented in alignment with National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE) guidelines. This not only boosted staff morale but also encouraged a renewed commitment to the institution’s mission. Similarly, Awotu’s dedication to student wellbeing led to major infrastructure upgrades, including improved access to water, electricity, medical services, and hostel facilities.
His reappointment holds the promise of further welfare enhancements, creating an even more conducive environment for learning and teaching.
Raising the Bar for Academic Excellence
Awotu’s leadership has set a high benchmark for academic standards. He revitalized the College’s Quality Control Department, fostering a culture of continuous assessment and improvement. His efforts culminated in the successful accreditation of 30 NCE programs and 8 degree programs affiliated with Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. By streamlining examination result releases and ensuring timely feedback, Awotu restored trust in the institution’s academic processes.
As he resumes his duties, expectations are high for further advancements in academic quality, with additional initiatives to enhance teaching methods, curriculum development, and student outcomes.
Transparency and Good Governance
Awotu’s tenure was characterized by his insistence on financial accountability and operational transparency. He introduced key governance frameworks, including the establishment of an Accounting Manual, an Internal Audit Manual, and a Cash Management Committee, ensuring that financial operations adhered to best practices. His leadership fostered a culture of openness, reducing tensions and building trust among the College community.
His reappointment is seen as an opportunity to build on these reforms, further entrenching transparency and accountability in all facets of College operations.
Infrastructure Development and Capacity Building
Awotu’s transformative agenda extended to infrastructure development. He oversaw the renovation and upgrade of critical facilities, from hostels and classrooms to administrative buildings, enhancing the overall physical environment of the College. His commitment to continuous staff development was reflected in comprehensive training programs, with a special focus on Information Communication Technology (ICT) proficiency, ensuring that the College’s workforce remained skilled and adaptive.
The College community anticipates that Awotu’s reappointment will bring about new projects and capacity-building initiatives, cementing his legacy of infrastructural and human resource development.
Looking to the Future
With the introduction of a Ten-Year Strategic Plan under his leadership, Awotu has charted a clear path for the College’s sustained growth and development. His reappointment presents a unique opportunity to see this strategic vision through to completion, with further milestones expected along the journey.
In summary, the reappointment of Ishaya A. Awotu, FCA, as the Governing Council Chairman of the College of Education, Akwanga, marks the beginning of a new chapter of excellence and transformation. His past accomplishments have laid a strong foundation, and expectations are high for even greater strides in institutional reform, staff and student welfare, academic excellence, and infrastructural development. Awotu’s leadership promises to propel the College to new heights, inspiring confidence and commitment among staff, students, and stakeholders alike.
As a fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, Governor Sule’s decision to retain Awotu for this vital role reflects a forward-looking vision to elevate the College’s standing and deliver on the aspirations of staff, students, and the broader community.
The College of Education, Akwanga, under the leadership of Provost Rev. Dr. Jonathan Wakili Thani, JP, has bestowed a Certificate of Honour upon Ishaya A. Awotu, FCA, in recognition of his dedicated service and outstanding contributions as the Chairman of the Governing Council from August 2020 to August 2024. This accolade underscores the respect and admiration Awotu has earned for his commitment to institutional reform, enhanced governance, and improving the welfare of staff and students.
The Provost's commendation highlights Awotu’s impact and the strong collaborative spirit between the College’s leadership, setting a high standard for continued progress.
