The sky was a blank canvas, and the morning breeze carried a gentle chill at half past ten. Mr. Naandye Dabugat, acting Director of the Directorate of Alumni Relations at the University of Jos, radiated confidence as he recounted the milestones and hurdles that have shaped the office under his leadership.
Mr. Naandye assumed office in September 2016, transitioning from the Advancement Office.
Since then, he has guided the Directorate in fostering collaboration with alumni worldwide, emphasising its role as a pillar of development for the University.
“We partner with alumni worldwide to make a difference on campus,” Mr. Naandye explained.
The Directorate’s contributions span mentorship programmes, stewardship efforts, and the Leave-a-Legacy project.
These initiatives strengthen alumni engagement and create lasting benefits for the University.
“We organise alumni lectures where distinguished graduates return to their departments to mentor current students.
Through stewardship, we identify alumni in influential positions, reach out to them, build relationships, and encourage them to give back to the University. This relationship is symbiotic,” he said.
Evolution and Structure
The Directorate of Alumni Relations began as a unit under the Registry in 2005.
By September 2016, it had evolved into an independent office.
The Directorate comprises various units, including Alumni Prospect Research, Finance and Access Building, Information and Knowledge Services, and Communication and Marketing, all of which are integral to its mission.
These units work collectively to organize programs in different states, maintain connections with alumni, and oversee the Directorate’s strategic initiatives.
Despite their collaborative efforts, the Directorate faces a range of challenges. Some alumni have shown resistance to engagement, with occasional expressions of frustration.
“I’m done with you,” some alumni have said, according to Mr. Eugene Shinlat, the Alumni Relations research and proposal writer who joined the office in June 2021.
In addition to resistance from some alumni, administrative hurdles further complicate the Directorate’s efforts.
For instance, donors must navigate the University’s Remita payment process, which has deterred some from contributing.
Mr. Naandye further highlighted the impact of the federal IPPS policy, which complicates employment processes, particularly for exceptional graduates.
“It’s been challenging. Policies from various federal agencies must align, making retention of the best graduating students as lecturers nearly impossible.
However, we’ve been able to employ some as graduate assistants and temporary staff. We also advocate for a gender policy to retain outstanding female graduates,” he explained.
The National Bureau of Statistics recently recorded a 5.3% unemployment rate among graduates in the first quarter of 2024, underscoring the gravity of this issue.
Nevertheless, the Directorate has achieved commendable milestones, showcasing the positive impact of alumni contributions on the University.
“In the Department of Architecture, alumni donated 50 stools and drawing tables. From the UK, some alumni provided free filmmaking lectures for students,” said Ms. Dorathy Dalum, the Alumni Relations Officer with three years of experience at the office.
The Mass Communication Department also benefited significantly, receiving new studio equipment donated by former students.
“When we meet prominent individuals during our work, we influence them to contribute positively to the University,” Mr. Naandye added.
Looking to the future, the Directorate is also working toward launching an internship program to equip students with essential skills.
“I recently met with the National President of the Alumni Association, Pastor Nuhu Johnson. Our ongoing projects are ambitious, including preparations for the upcoming NUGA Games,” Mr. Naandye said with evident enthusiasm.
Looking to the Future
As the Directorate continues its journey, it remains steadfast in its vision of fostering alumni relations and driving the University’s development.
Despite the challenges, its achievements underscore the power of collaboration and determination.
“Who else can support you if not your own?” Mr. Naandye’s words serve as a powerful rallying call for alumni to strengthen their bond with their alma mater, ensuring its legacy flourishes for generations to come.
Report and Photos by Isama Anyaole Peace & Odah OJone Ann (5/5)
Edited by Isama Anyaole Peace
