Gombe varsity deploys drones, CCTV networks to secure campus

Gombe State University (GSU) has said that, in order to safeguard the lives of students and others staying within the premises, it has adopted the use of drones, especially at night, to enhance surveillance and protect lives and property.

The disclosure was made by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sani Yauta, during a meeting of the University Community Relations Committee held on Friday.

The VC further disclosed that the university has undertaken the installation of full CCTV cameras at strategic locations within the premises in order to combat crime, enhance campus monitoring, and protect students.

According to him, the university has recorded cases of theft on campus, citing the arrest of an individual who allegedly stole five motorcycles belonging to various individuals.

The Vice-Chancellor assured that the management is taking the issue of security seriously and will continue to ensure that students and other members of the community remain protected and secure.

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Speaking on admission matters, Sani Yauta said that the university approved a 150 general cut-off mark, and 200 cut-off marks for Law and Medicine.

According to him, admission into a course of choice would depend on competition within the candidate’s local government area, even if he or she meets other requirements.

“Candidates who do not secure placement in their preferred courses might be offered alternative programmes,” he said.

Sani Yauta advised parents to allow their wards to study any course offered to them, stressing that every discipline presents valuable opportunities for personal and professional growth.

He, however, raised concerns over the encroachment of the premises by stray animals, which destroy plants and landscaping that cost the government a fortune to establish and maintain.

While commending members of the committee for their cooperation, Sani Yauta urged them to address the animal encroachment bedevilling the institution.

In her contribution, an official of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in the state, Mrs Orpha Gabriel, urged the university to introduce drug tests for students and establish a drug-free club.

She opined that such measures would keep students in check through reminders of the dangers of drug abuse and trafficking.

Also speaking, Sale Danburam, Secretary of Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI), advised the university management to deal decisively with a former student accused of theft, to serve as a deterrent to others.

An elder statesman, Yaya Hammari, commended the university’s management for its efforts towards the welfare of students and the wider community, and pledged continued support for the institution.

Other speakers also commended the initiative, especially the meeting, urging the management to sustain it through regular engagements.