The Yobe State House of Assembly has given accelerated consideration to a bill seeking the establishment of Institute for Biomedical Engineering, Science and Technology in the state.
The bill, presented by the executive arm of government, scaled its second reading on Tuesday following extensive deliberations by members on the floor of the House.
Leading the debate, the Leader of the House, Hon. Nasiru Hassan Yusuf, said the proposed institute was designed to strengthen the state’s healthcare system by producing competent technicians for the proper maintenance and utilisation of medical equipment.
According to him, the institute would offer both full-time and part-time programmes, promote research and innovation, develop technical manpower, create employment opportunities for youths, and contribute to the economic development of the state.
“If established, Yobe would become the first state in the country to set up an Institute for Biomedical Engineering, Science and Technology”, Hon. Yusuf added.
In their contributions, members representing Gujba, Mamudo, Bade West and Nguru II constituencies, Bulama Bukar, Mohammed Isa Bello, Sanda Kara Bade and Musa Lawan Majakura, described the proposed institute as an investment in the future of healthcare and human capital development.
Presiding over the sitting, the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Chiroma Buba Mashio, said the passage of the Bill for second reading marked a major step towards addressing the challenge of inadequate technical personnel to manage modern medical equipment in health facilities across the state.
He then committed the bill to the House Standing Committee on Higher Education for further legislative action.
