MAAUN Names Multipurpose Laboratory After Late Journalist Saleh Ashaka

MAAUN Names Multipurpose Laboratory After Late Journalist Saleh Ashaka

The President of MAAUN Group of Universities, Professor Adamu Abubakar Gwarzo, has named the newly constructed three-storey multipurpose laboratory at the College of Medicine of Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria (MAAUN), Kano, after the late veteran journalist, Saleh Shehu Ashaka.

Gwarzo disclosed this in a statement issued to newsmen on Tuesday in Kano, saying the decision was in recognition of Ashaka’s philanthropic activities, commitment to humanity and impactful contributions to society during his lifetime.

According to him, the three-storey multipurpose laboratory is one of the key facilities developed to strengthen practical medical education at the university and provide students with a modern environment for hands-on learning and scientific training.

The facility comprises 12 different laboratories specifically designed to support practical teaching and learning for students of the College of Medicine. The laboratories are expected to provide students with the opportunity to acquire practical skills, conduct experiments and deepen their understanding of various aspects of medical science in a purpose-built academic environment.

Gwarzo said the multipurpose laboratory is being equipped to meet world-class standards expected of a modern university, reflecting MAAUN’s commitment to providing state-of-the-art infrastructure and facilities for medical education.

He said the development of the facility underscores the university’s determination to give its medical students access to quality learning resources and an environment that combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience.

“Saleh gave himself to the people in ways many were not aware of until after his death. It is good to honour people like Saleh who served humanity with their all. He will continue to be remembered in our prayers because of the impact he made during his lifetime,” Gwarzo said.

He described the late Ashaka as a man who lived a life of impact and service, noting that he dedicated his career to upholding the ethics and professionalism of journalism.

“He was a committed journalist whose work earned him respect across the country and beyond,” he added.

The three-storey laboratory building, with its 12 dedicated laboratories, modern academic spaces and purpose-built facilities for practical medical training, is expected to play a significant role in enhancing the quality of medical education at MAAUN. Beyond serving as a centre for students’ practicals, the facility represents the university’s broader investment in infrastructure aimed at producing competent, well-trained medical professionals.

Ashaka, who died on May 3, was an accomplished journalist whose death was widely regarded as a major loss to Nigeria’s media industry and the nation at large. He previously worked with the Voice of America (VOA) before resigning from the organisation in 2023.

The naming of the impressive MAAUN facility after him is expected to serve as a lasting tribute to his legacy of journalism, philanthropy and service to humanity, while ensuring that his name remains associated with a facility dedicated to education, knowledge and the training of future medical professionals.