Professor Umar Pate: A Beacon of Knowledge and Kindness in Communication Studies -By Usman Salisu (Gwani)

In the realm of academia, where intellect and knowledge often reign supreme, there exists a rare gem – Professor Pate, a seasoned communication scholar whose teaching transcends mere dissemination of information. 

Professor Umar Pate is a name synonymous with excellence and kindness in the field of communication studies. His journey as a scholar, mentor, and administrator has been marked by a relentless pursuit of knowledge and a deep-seated commitment to helping others.

As a seasoned communication scholar, Professor Pate has played a pivotal role in shaping the academic landscape of the discipline. His research contributions have enriched our understanding of communication theories and practices, paving the way for new insights and discoveries. 

Through his scholarly work, Professor Pate has inspired countless students and researchers to explore the complexities of communication and its impact on society.

Beyond his academic achievements, Professor Pate is admired for his kindness and generosity. He is known for his willingness to go above and beyond to support his students and colleagues, offering guidance, encouragement, and mentorship at every turn.

 His approachable nature and genuine concern for others have created a supportive and inclusive environment that fosters learning and growth.

As a mentor, Professor Pate has played a transformative role in the lives of many students. He takes the time to understand their goals and aspirations, offering personalized guidance and support to help them reach their full potential. His mentorship goes beyond the academic realm, often extending to career advice, personal development, and life skills.

In addition to his role as a mentor, Professor Pate has also been a visionary leader in the field of communication studies. As the pioneer Dean of the Faculty of Communication at Bayero University Kano, he has spearheaded initiatives to enhance the quality of education and research in the department. Under his leadership, the faculty has grown in stature and reputation, attracting top students and faculty members from around the country.

Professor Pate’s impact extends beyond the academic realm. He is actively involved in community development initiatives, using his expertise in communication to address social issues and promote positive change. His commitment to service and his dedication to making a difference in the lives of others are a testament to his character and values.

 *Some People May Wonder Why Pate is Widely Loved by His Students* 

Professor is one of the widely loved, if not the most, lecturers at Bayero University and beyond. Like an air we breathe, his stories travel on the lips of students. I can still remember that when I got admission to study Mass Communication in 2019 at Bayero University, Kano, one of the good stories that greeted my ears was the story of enormously amazing scholarship of the Prof by some of my friends.

When I got admission to study Mass Communication in 2019, the serenity of the environment was full of joy and chanting moments of the amazing academic scholar do to his tolerance, and simplicity in dealing with his students.

The news of the enormously academic media guru always greeted my ear from my colleagues who offered his course at Level one, as Pate was able to change their thinking capacity from Johnny Just Come (JJC) to full university students with a critical mind.

Having heard all his news from my mates who were taught by the scholar, sharing the experiences and good moments they had with the scholar, emphasizing his scholarship prowess, I developed an interest in taking his course to reap from his vast knowledge and experiences gained over the years.

I was not taught by Professor Pate in level one, being a Direct-Entry Student, but attending his seminars remained my top priority on campus, to evaluate how he could change me for the better.

Furthermore, I met Professor Pate at Level-400, and the first day I had a lecture with him in his course titled “Political Communication,” it really served as an eye-opener as it took me to another world of journalism full of new experiences and knowledge.

For those unfamiliar with Professor Pate, it may be perplexing to understand the depth of admiration and respect he garners from his students.

 However, to those who have had the privilege of being under his tutelage, the reasons are abundantly clear.

 Professor Pate’s approach to teaching goes beyond the conventional methods; he engages his students on a personal level, taking the time to understand their individual needs and aspirations.

 *A Privilege to Be Under the Scholarship of Professor Pate* 

To be a student under the scholarship of Professor Pate is not just an academic experience but a life-changing journey.

 His dedication to his students’ success knows no bounds. He goes above and beyond to ensure that every student reaches their full potential, offering guidance and support every step of the way.

 His classes are not just lectures but interactive sessions where every student’s voice is heard and valued.

 *Pate is Magnanimous and Generous* 

What truly sets Professor Pate apart is his magnanimity and generosity. He is not only imparting knowledge but also instilling in his students the values of compassion, empathy, and kindness. 

He leads by example, showing his students that true success is not measured by achievements alone but by the positive impact one has on others.

Professor Umar Pate, an internationally recognized scholar, served as a father, grandfather, and beacon of excellence in the media landscape, offering scholarships to his students to study for master’s degrees and PhDs in Nigerian universities and abroad.

Throughout his academic career, Pate raised some of his students to the rank of full professors in the field of communication and beyond.

Pate did not stop at imparting knowledge but also offered assistance to his students in settling their lives. I can recall an interview I had with almost 20 students who shared the magnanimous contributions offered to them by Pate to start businesses while taking care of their academic activities.

During his tenure as the Dean of the Faculty of Communication, Pate secured a grant from the Macarthur Foundation, which led to the establishment of Digital Radio and Television, in addition to scholarships given to female students at all levels in the Faculty of Communication and beyond.

This simple but impactful grant, secured by him, remains the cornerstone of sustaining the operation of the two campus broadcasting stations owned by Bayero University, Kano.

Driven by his enthusiasm for knowledge, Pate decided to continue teaching first-year and fourth-year undergraduate students, as well as M.Sc. students, while serving as the Vice-chancellor of Federal University Kashere, Gombe State.

As he habitually inculcates the habit of helping others, in 2024, out of his salary, he used his money to sponsor five of his students to undergo master’s degrees at his university.

In conclusion, Professor Pate is more than just a communication scholar; he is a beacon of light in the lives of his students, guiding them towards a brighter future. His kindness, generosity, and unwavering dedication make him a true epitome of what it means to be a teacher.

Usman Salisu is a final year student, Mass Communication Department, BUK.

usmangurbi@gmail.com