Governor Simon Lalong of Plateau State

Three students bagged first class degrees at the first convocation ceremony of the Plateau State University, Bokkos, held on Saturday, the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), reports.

The first class graduates included Miss Tongshakap Gamsuk (Management Studies), Mr Ishaku Maren (Sociology), as well as Mr Benard Diesk (Mass Communication).

NAN reports that a total of 344 graduated with various degrees at the ceremony.

The university, which was established 12 years ago, had remained aground owing to what its Vice Chancellor, Prof. Doknan Sheni, described as “political issues”.

“Owing to its slow growth, only two of the institution’s courses received full accreditation late last year, while 15 were given interim accreditation,” Sheni had told NAN.

Reacting to his daughter’s feat, Mr Akila Gamsuk, father of Tongshakap, described her as “a blessed child that has made us proud”.

“I am a very proud father. My little girl has made me proud,” the excited Gamsuk told NAN.

“As you can see, I am all smiles at this convocation. My prayer is that she keeps working hard so that she will be a reference point for people in her generation,” he said.

Also speaking, Lucas, father of Benard, described the convocation day as “one historic and memorable day.’’

“My desire is that my son will grow up to be a crack journalist, who will serve this nation diligently and create awareness that will spur development,” he said.

Former military leader, General Yakubu Gowon, Prof. Julius Okoje, former NUC boss, and Oba Jimoh Oyewumi, the Soun of Ogbomosho, are three distinguished Nigerians to be honoured with Honorary Degrees at the convocation.

(NAN)