By TALATU MAIWADA

The American University of Nigeria (AUN), Yola, says it would graduate 12 rescued Chibok schoolgirls among other students, symbolising courage, resilience, academic excellence and renewed hope.

AUN President, DeWayne Frazier, disclosed this at a media briefing, on Thursday in Yola ahead of the ceremony scheduled for May 9, describing it as a milestone of resilience and recovery.

He said the event would mark “the triumph of education over extremism,” adding that it would stand as one of the most emotional moments in the university’s history.

Frazier said the graduation goes beyond academic success, representing a direct rebuttal of Boko Haram’s anti-education ideology.

“When these 12 young women walk across the stage, it will be deeply symbolic.

“For years, the world echoed ‘Bring Back Our Girls.’ Now, we are not just bringing them back, we are sending them forward as educated, empowered women ready to shape the future.

“Boko Haram lost. Education won,” Frazier said.

He said the ceremony would feature Stephanie Busari, a CNN journalist known for her “proof of life” report on the Chibok girls, as keynote speaker.

Frazier said her presence underscores the role of global media in sustaining attention on the girls’ plight.

The president also highlighted the university’s institutional turnaround over the past three years, citing improved enrollment following COVID-19 disruptions, leadership changes and financial challenges.

He attributed the recovery to a student-focused strategy emphasising accessibility, innovation and community engagement.

Frazier said over 30 per cent of students currently benefit from scholarships, countering perceptions that AUN caters only to wealthy families.

“AUN is for everybody. Our founder’s vision was to build a university that transforms lives, not one limited to the privileged,” he said.

He said the university had strengthened technology investments through partnerships with Huawei and MTN, enabling high-speed internet, AI-driven learning systems and smart classrooms.

Frazier said a student-developed application, “AUN 360,” integrates campus transportation, food delivery, navigation and digital support services.

“The platform is expected to incorporate an AI-powered assistant known as ‘Ask Stanley,’ also built by students.

“We turned to our students to solve problems they experience daily. Innovation must come from the people it serves,” he said.

He added that improvements include upgraded recreational facilities, expanded student housing and enhanced healthcare services.

On finances, Frazier said the university cleared pandemic-era debts, restructured loans and restored fiscal stability without external bailout support.

“The institution is now in its strongest financial position in five to six years, sustainability remains our top priority,” he said.

Frazier said AUN had also established international partnerships across Europe and the Middle East to enhance student exchange opportunities.

He expressed optimism that the university would continue shaping future leaders, describing Nigeria’s greatest asset as its people. (NAN)

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