By Bashir Hassan Abubakar
The Vice Chancellor of Sa’adu Zungur University (SAZU), Professor Fatimah Tahir, has underscored the strategic role of universities in advancing peace, resilience, and social cohesion, especially in regions grappling with security and social challenges. She made the call at a one-day workshop on Youth Engagement in Peacebuilding organised by the University’s Centre for Peace, Security and Social Studies (SATCEPSS).
Represented by Dr. Wasilu Suleiman, Professor Tahir said institutions of higher learning must extend their responsibilities beyond teaching and research to nurturing values, leadership, and civic responsibility among young people. She stressed that universities have a moral and social obligation to contribute meaningfully to peacebuilding efforts within their host communities and society at large.
The Vice Chancellor highlighted the growing importance of youth inclusion in peace processes, noting that when young people are empowered with relevant skills and opportunities, they can become effective agents of peace. She warned, however, that the exclusion of youth from decision-making processes could leave them vulnerable to manipulation, violence, and extremist influences.
Commending SATCEPSS for its consistent work in research, dialogue, and capacity-building on peace and security issues, Professor Tahir described the workshop as a practical demonstration of SAZU’s commitment to linking academic knowledge with community impact.
She urged participants to ensure that insights gained from the workshop translate into concrete peace initiatives across Bauchi State and beyond.
Earlier, the Director of SATCEPSS, Dr. Yusuf Musa Yahaya, emphasised the need for sustained youth participation in peacebuilding, particularly in conflict-affected regions such as North-East Nigeria. Referencing the United Nations Youth, Peace and Security Agenda under UN Security Council Resolutions 2250, 2419, and 2535, he said the workshop was designed as an action-oriented platform to equip participants with practical peacebuilding skills applicable in their communities, campuses, and organisations.
