The Federal University Dutse has secured a special intervention project of one billion Naira (₦1,000,000,000) from the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), for the establishment of innovation hubs and parks in the University.

This was contained in a letter dated June 19, 2025, and signed by the Executive Secretary of TETFund, Arc. Sonny S.T. Echono, FNIA.

The Vice-Chancellor, Federal University Dutse Professor Abdulkarim Sabo Mohammed revealed that FUD is one of the few selected universities that will benefit from this significant initiative by TETFund.

He said the project aims to empower the University’s students, fostering their self-reliance and equipping them to become potential employers in their respective fields.

Prof. Abdulkarim emphasized that the innovation hubs will promote a culture of innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship among students thereby enhancing economic growth and human capital development in Nigeria and beyond.

According to the VC, the innovation hubs will comprise the following components:
1. Product Design Lab: this dynamic space is where ideas evolve into tangible solutions, blending creativity with technical expertise.
2. 3D Printing Lab: the 3D printing lab is a haven for innovators, designers and engineers who seek to transform concept into three-dimensional reality. The Lab will be equipped with cutting-edge 3D printing technology and an array of digital sculpting tools.
3. Software Lab: This is a space for coding, experimentation and technological advancement. It will be equipped with state-of-the-art hardware and software resources. The software lab will provide an environment where software engineers can dive deep into coding, testing and refining digital products and services.
4. Leathercraft Workshop: The leathercraft workshop will provides the space to explore the rich world of leatherwork and bring your artistic vision to life
5. Bio-Technology Lab: In the bio-technology lab, science and innovation will be use to unlock the mysteries of life through advanced biotechnological tools and techniques.
6. Embedded Systems and Coding Lab: This lab is going to be equipped with state-of-the-art kits software and hands-on tools. The lab will be a centre for aspiring programmers, engineers, and tech enthusiasts.
7. Electronics Lab: This lab will be offering experts’ recommendations for electronic needs of various projects and prototype developed at the hub.
8. Textile and Fashion Design: In this workshop, designers, artists and visionaries can collaborate to elevate aesthetics in fashion and design. This workshop will allow for experimentation through traditional techniques and digital practices.
9. Upcycling and Recycling Workshop: In this workshop, waste items will find a second chance as they are repurposed into functional and valuable items, art pieces, furniture and more.
9. Eco Lab: This lab will focus on tackling environmental challenges through upcycling, recycling, sustainable architecture, advanced materials and circular economy principles. It will serve as a hands-on space for research, collaboration and innovation, transforming ideas into impactful ecological solutions.
10. Refrigeration and Air-conditioning (RAC) Lab: This is going to be a dynamic workstation where the mechanisms behind are dissected for better understanding and improvement with aid of stimulators and demonstrators. With modern equipment and stimulation tools, this lab empowers innovators to develop RAC systems and devices.
11. Metal Workshop: This is a place where metals are fabricated into functional pieces and creativity takes shape through the mastery of metal.
12. Wood Workshop: This workshop is haven for artisans, designers and woodworking enthusiasts. With an array of precision tools and top-tier equipment, space empowers creators and technicians to transform wood into intricate pieces of art, functional furniture and architectural marvels.
13. Sustainable Energy: This lab is going to be equipped with cutting-edge technology, demonstrators and stimulators. The space will empower innovators to understand, experiment and refine sustainable energy solutions.
14. Showrooms: The showrooms are spaces that will bring together the remarkable outcomes of various programs and initiatives, offering a glimpse into future shaped by technology, craftsmanship and visionary thinking.

In a statement issued by the university’s Director of public affairs Abdullahi Yahaya Bello said the VC explained that upon completion of this project, FUD will become an environment that brings together exceptional talent and skilled professionals among staff, students and the general public through providing access to mentorship, expert guidance, networking opportunities, and state-of-the-art technology—each of which is essential for turning innovative ideas into reality.