Karl Kumm University Holds Maiden Public Lecture.

Rifkatu Kyemut

Karl Kumm University (KKU), Vom, Plateau State, made history as it hosted its first-ever public lecture to mark a significant academic milestone for the young institution. The lecture, delivered by the renowned global historian, Prof. Toyin Falola, held at the university’s auditorium, attracted scholars, students, clergy, and members of the public.

The topic of the lecture, “Power, Education, and Change,” struck at the heart of contemporary national and global conversations, as Prof. Falola explored the interconnectedness of knowledge, governance, and societal transformation.

Delivering his lecture, Prof. Falola emphasized that education is the most powerful weapon any society can wield to influence its destiny. He explained how education has historically been used both as a tool of empowerment and as a mechanism of control, depending on who wields the power.

“The power to educate is the power to shape minds, values, and futures. Societies that recognize this invest heavily in their educational systems—not only with resources but with vision,” and added that Technology, Globalization, Knowledge of Economy, humility, and innovation are all products of education and change hence it must be embraced.

He lamented the current state of education in many parts of Africa, calling for a complete reimagining of the system to reflect indigenous values, promote innovation, and address present-day challenges. Prof. Falola also encouraged institutions like KKU to be at the forefront of this change being one of the young Universities by developing curricula that foster critical thinking, leadership, and ethical transformation.

While addressing the issue of power, he criticised systems that suppress intellectual freedom and emphasized the role of education in democratizing power structures. He revealed that when knowledge is democratized through education, power becomes a tool for progress, not oppression.

The Vice Chancellor of Karl Kumm University, Prof. Nanven Gambo, in his welcome address, described the occasion as a defining moment in the history of the university. He said the choice of Prof. Toyin Falola as the guest lecturer was deliberate, considering his global standing and an academician that is highly respected.

According to the VC, the lecture marks the beginning of a tradition of intellectual discourse that will shape the philosophy and policy direction of Karl Kumm University. Prof. Gambo pointed out that as an institution they are proud to host Prof. Falola, whose scholarship continues to inspire generations across continents.

He added that the first public lecture has set a high standard and opened a new chapter in Karl Kumm University’s journey toward becoming a center of transformative knowledge and leadership in Nigeria and beyond.

Gooodwill messages came from Prof. Monday Mangvwat, former VC, University of Jos, Prof. Ochandu of University of Nsukka, Prof. Sati Fwatshak, and Prof Enoch who all expressed their joy to be part of the lecture and applauded the Church for the institution which started on a solid foundation and a serene environment.

They all wished the University speedy growth and encouraged the students to imbibe extracurricular skills to help them. The guest lecturer was presented with an attire of the native community where the institution is located.