Governor Hyacinth Alia has approved the appointment of Prof. Leonard Karshima Shilgba as Acting Vice Chancellor of the University of Agriculture Science and Technology (UAST), Ihugh.
Prof. Shilgba takes over from Dr. Qrisstuberg Msughter Amua, who has been relieved of his position for administrative reasons. The appointment takes immediate effect.
Shilgba is a Professor of Mathematics, university administrator, scholar, author, educationist and academic leader. He hails from Ushongo Local Government Area of Benue State and has had a distinguished academic and administrative career spanning over three decades. His academic credentials include advanced postdoctoral research experience. In 2009, he was awarded a Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO) Fellowship, through which he undertook postdoctoral research in Japan.
His experience in university leadership has also included participation in strategic planning and institutional development at a period of significant transformation in Nigerian higher education. He also contributed to establishing UAST, Ihugh. In 2017, President Muhammadu Buhari appointed Professor Shilgba as the Chairman of the 9th Governing Board of the National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB), where he served with vision, distinction and uncompromising disposition.
Governor Alia, who is the Visitor to the university, while congratulating the new Acting Vice Chancellor, stated that: “This is a position of great responsibility, and we trust you will lead with wisdom, integrity, and fairness. As you assume this office, I urge you to provide steady leadership, strengthen academic excellence, and promote unity among staff and students.” He further encouraged Prof. Shilgba to prioritise the welfare of all members of the university and work diligently to uphold the values and reputation of the institution.
