Kebbi State University of Science and Technology in Aliero has reported the deaths of six students as a result of a cerebrospinal meningitis outbreak.
Mustapha Ango, the university’s Public Relations Officer, expressed the institution’s condolences over the unfortunate death in a statement released to our correspondent in the state on Saturday.
On behalf of the management, he expressed deepest condolences to the families of the slain students, noting that the Vice-Chancellor, B. G. Danshehu, was very grieved by the regrettable tragedy.
He said, “Upon detecting the initial signs of the outbreak, KSUSTA took immediate and decisive action to mitigate the spread of the disease.
“A specialised committee, led by the Provost of the College of Health Sciences, Prof. Balarabe Adamu Isah, was formed to conduct a thorough investigation.
“We promptly reported the outbreak to the Kebbi State Ministry of Health and the Ministry for Higher Education.”
A stakeholders’ meeting was convened, bringing together key health sector experts, including representatives from the World Health Organisation, United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund, Médecins Sans Frontières, and other medical professionals.”
He stated that various key measures have been implemented to control the meningitis situation, including increased medical support, sanitation, and preventative initiatives, as well as health awareness and immunisation in conjunction with WHO, UNICEF, and MSF.
“Despite the best efforts of the university and health authorities, six students have succumbed to the disease.
“We deeply regret these losses, and our thoughts and prayers are with the affected families,” said Ango.
However, the university administration reminded parents, guardians, and the general public of its ongoing commitment to student welfare.
Management recommended people wanting additional information to contact the university’s Public Relations Office for updates.
“We appreciate the continued support and cooperation of our university community and stakeholders as we work tirelessly to overcome this crisis,” Ango concluded.
