Kaduna State University KASU has received a digital connectivity proposal from MTN Business aimed at improving students’ access to internet data and supporting teaching, learning, and other academic activities.
The proposal was presented during a courtesy visit by the Enterprise Account Manager of MTN Business, Abdulwadud Bello, to the Vice-Chancellor of Kaduna State University, Prof. Abdullahi Ibrahim Musa.
During the visit, Bello explained that the proposed collaboration was designed to address the challenges students face in accessing affordable and reliable internet data, particularly in an increasingly technology-driven academic environment where online classes, digital learning resources, and other educational activities require consistent internet connectivity.
He noted that providing students with easier access to data would help improve their academic experience by enabling them to participate more effectively in online lectures, conduct research, access electronic learning materials, and communicate with lecturers and fellow students on academic matters.
According to him, the initiative would provide an opportunity for the University to explore a digital solution that could make internet access more convenient for students while supporting the institution’s commitment to improving academic performance through technology.
As part of the engagement, the MTN Business representative presented a digital proposal outlining the framework for implementing the initiative and how the University could benefit from the proposed arrangement.
Bello further explained that, under the proposed system, students would be able to access the service using MTN SIM cards, making it possible for eligible students to benefit from the data provision without necessarily having to obtain a new SIM card specifically for the initiative, provided they already use an MTN line.
He added that the proposed arrangement was intended to extend the benefits of the service to students across the University once the management subscribed to the system and the necessary implementation arrangements were completed.
The initiative, he said, would provide a platform for strengthening digital inclusion among students and reducing some of the difficulties associated with obtaining internet data for academic purposes.
Responding on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, the Director of Information and Communication Technology, Dr. Martins Sambo, and the Deputy Director of Corporate Services, Dr. Aliyu Tahir, acknowledged the potential benefits of the proposed initiative, particularly in expanding students’ access to digital learning resources.
They noted that the proposal could provide an alternative worth considering in the University’s efforts to strengthen internet connectivity and improve access to digital services across the campus.
The University representatives also indicated that the proposal would be forwarded to the Vice-Chancellor for further review and consideration, noting that its potential adoption would require an assessment of the existing network arrangements and the number of students who could benefit from the proposed system.
They emphasised the importance of carefully evaluating the proposal to determine how it could complement or improve the University’s current connectivity framework and provide practical benefits to students.
The proposed engagement between KASU and MTN Business reflects the growing importance of digital connectivity in higher education, where access to reliable internet services has become increasingly essential for effective teaching, learning, research, and information sharing.
If approved and successfully implemented, the initiative could provide students with additional opportunities to access online academic resources and participate in technology-enabled learning activities.
The proposal is expected to undergo further consideration by the University management to determine its suitability, implementation requirements, and potential benefits to the University community.
The proposed collaboration underscores the importance of exploring strategic partnerships with telecommunications providers to strengthen digital access and support the University’s commitment to academic excellence and improved student performance.
By Aliyu Abdullahi Jama’are