The 2022 graduates of the Mass Communication Department, Bayero University Kano (BUK), have celebrated their former level coordinator, Dr. Ummi Muhammad Hassan, in recognition of her recent PhD achievement.
The event, held on Tuesday at BUK’s new site, was attended by family members, alumni, and lecturers from the Faculty of Communication and related departments.
It featured a cake-cutting ceremony, an award presentation to Dr. Ummi, and speeches from invited guests.
Dr. Ummi’s PhD research focused on Challenges and Perceptions of Muslim Hausa Female Rap Artists in Kano and Kaduna States.
Speaking on the occasion, the students said the celebration was a way to honor Dr. Ummi as their “academic mother” and acknowledge her dedication to their success.
“We wanted to express our gratitude to Dr. Ummi for all she did for us during our time at BUK,” said Umar Isa Dandago, one of the event organizers.
He added that, “She treated us as family, and this celebration is our way of giving back.”
In her response, Dr. Ummi expressed her heartfelt appreciation. “When one of my students, Uzair Adam, informed me about this, I was speechless.
“I consider my students as my second family, and seeing them organize this for me melts my heart,” she said.
The Head of the Mass Communication Department, Dr. Gambo Nababa, lauded the students for their thoughtfulness.
He also urged Dr. Ummi to continue her academic journey, expressing optimism about her attaining the rank of Professor soon.
Dr. Ummi’s husband, Dr. Musa Labaran, who also serves as the department’s examination officer, shared his pride and gratitude.
He also noted that the gesture was a reflection of Dr. Ummi’s devotion to her students.
Other notable attendees included the Head of the Information and Media Studies Department, Dr. Nura Ibrahim, as well as Dr. Hadiza J. Ibrahim, Dr. Ibrahim Siraj, and Dr. Muhammad Danja, among others.
They described Dr. Ummi as a remarkable academic who has left an indelible mark on her students.
The celebration underscored the enduring bond between Dr. Ummi and her students and highlighted her contributions as an educator and mentor.