Veritas Varsity commences PhD programmes in Economics, Political Science

The Vice Chancellor of Veritas University, Abuja, Rev. Fr. (Prof.) Hyacinth Ichoku, said the institution has commenced Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programmes in Economics and Political Science.

Prof Ichoku who stated this in Abuja on Monday during a pre inaugural lecture said the Catholic-owned university, which was established in 2008, has continued to witness rapid growth and development, adding that the inaugural lecture testified to its contribution to the academic community.

“This inaugural lecture also coincides with our progress because this year we are beginning PhD programmes in Political Science and Economics, and we are admitting for the first time in Veritas’ history candidates into the PhD programme,” he said.

He explained that they have already gotten National Universities Commission(NUC) approval for the PhD programmes and that it is a sign that Veritas varsity is coming of age.

Also speaking, Prof. Gabriel Bassey Egbe, who is to deliver the University’s maiden inaugural lecture, with the title ‘Of New Englishes and

New Literacies’, called on Nigeria to encourage the use of Nigerian English in the conduct of all its affairs.

The Professor of English Language said: “Nigeria should start examining candidates for external examination in Nigerian English, the concept of native speakers of English is dead. All we need now is to have a standard for Nigerian English.”

While noting that Nigerian English is not the same as Pidgin English, he said there is need for the country to do away with the belief that English Language is a colonial tool but instead develop appropriate literacy with the use of the language.