Overview and History of Hensard University, Toru-Orua, Sagbama, Bayelsa State

 
In the evolving landscape of Nigerian higher education, the drive toward not only access but relevance, innovation, and leadership is ever more important. Hensard University in Toru-Orua, Sagbama Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, emerges as a noteworthy institution—a private university designed with a clear vision: to bridge the gap between academic certifications and practical, entrepreneurial skills; to form not only graduates but leaders, entrepreneurs and change-makers. Located in the Niger Delta region, the university is particularly significant: it is the first private university in Bayelsa State, bringing new options for youth in the region and beyond. For prospective students, parents and stakeholders, Hensard University offers more than a degree—it promises a holistic student journey that emphasises discipline, character formation, service to society and global outlook. With its setting in Toru-Orua (less than an hour’s drive from Bayelsa International Airport), the institution combines accessibility with a promising campus environment. 

In this blog post we’ll explore the university’s official website and what it offers, examine its motto, outline its founder and history, leadership structure, accreditation and recognition status, academic structure and facilities, campus life, and where available its alumni achievements. By the end you’ll have a clearer picture of what Hensard University stands for, what it offers, and whether it might align with your educational aspirations.

##Official Website
The official website of Hensard University is www.hensarduniversity.edu.ngOn the site you’ll find information about the university’s mission and vision, admission portals, programme listings, contact details and updates on academic sessions. For instance, the “About” section highlights the institution’s aim to “impact society in a transformational way” through practical teaching and research. 

As with many newer institutions, it’s wise to visit the website and check for the latest updates on available courses, fees, accreditation and admission deadlines—to ensure you have current information.

##Motto
Hensard University uses the motto “Qui Servit Homo, Servit Deo”, which translates from Latin as “Service to Man is Service to God.

This motto reflects the underlying ethos of the institution: the belief that education is not just a private benefit but a social responsibility; that graduates should be equipped not just for personal success but for service, ethical conduct and societal improvement.

##Founder
The founder of Hensard University is Henry Seriake Dickson CON, a former Governor of Bayelsa State and later Senator representing Bayelsa West. 

He established the university through the Henry Seriake Dickson Foundation (HSDF) as a special project to promote leadership, entrepreneurship and human-capacity development in the region. 

In his public remarks he has emphasised that the only investment that “does not decay or rust” is the investment in human capacity, underscoring his motivation for founding Hensard University. 

##History
Hensard University’s history is short but full of promise and strategic intent. The National Universities Commission (NUC) lists Hensard University, Toru-Orua, Bayelsa State among the private universities licensed in 2023. 

In November 2023 it was reported that the university had commenced operations, marking a milestone as the first private university in Bayelsa State. 

The university is sited in Toru-Orua in Sagbama Local Government Area — less than an hour from the Bayelsa International Airport in Yenagoa — a strategic location both accessible and in a region signalling educational growth

From its founding, the institution signalled a distinctive approach: linking academics with entrepreneurship. As one article stated, “Hensard students will be taught entrepreneurship and encouraged to become real entrepreneurs while in school through exposure to practical involvement in the running, overseeing, and management of businesses in their chosen fields under the guidance and mentorship of the school.” 

In December 2024 the university held its maiden matriculation ceremony for 150 students — marking the formal entry of its first student cohort. 

Thus Hensard’s history is recent yet active — a new university, but one with regulatory approval, initial student intake, clear vision, and infrastructure build. For students considering enrolment, this means you have first-mover opportunities, smaller class sizes, and chance to shape campus culture; but also the usual caveat that some institutional systems, traditions, and alumni outcomes are still under development.

##Chancellor
The Chancellor of Hensard University is also Henry Seriake Dickson. Many sources refer to him in that capacity (as founder and chancellor) of the institution. 

Brief Biography:
Henry Dickson was born on 28 January 1966 in Toru-Orua, Sabgama LGA. He attended primary and secondary schools locally, then studied law at Rivers State University of Science and Technology. He served in the House of Representatives, then as Governor of Bayelsa State from 2012 to 2020, before election as a Senator. 

As Governor he prioritised education heavily — his administration reportedly invested over N200 billion in education infrastructure in the state. 

His appointment as Chancellor of Hensard University, combined with his founding role, suggests the institution’s governance is anchored by someone experienced, locally rooted, and committed to education. For students this can signal strong backing and strategic vision.

##Accreditation and Recognition
Accreditation and recognition are critical factors when choosing a university. For Hensard University:

The institution is listed by the NUC among private universities licensed in 2023: “Hensard University, Toru-Orua, Bayelsa State”. 

According to media reports, the university has begun admissions, and its initial set of approved courses (30 courses across five faculties) was approved by NUC after resource-verification of facilities.

More recently (May 2025) it was reported that Hensard University has secured new accreditations and programme approvals from NUC and professional councils for medicine, law, engineering, nursing, pharmacy etc, expanding its programme portfolio significantly (59 programmes across 12 faculties) as it prepares for 2024/25 admissions. 

Thus, while it is still early days, Hensard University is properly recognised and licensed, and its programme accreditation is actively progressing. Prospective students should however verify the accreditation status of their specific course of interest (especially professional programmes like medicine or engineering) on the NUC website or via the university’s admissions office.


##Academic Structure and Facilities
Hensard University has outlined a modern academic structure, entrepreneurial orientation and advanced facilities. Here are at least six key features of its academic structure and infrastructure:

Faculties & Programmes
The university has begun with multiple faculties. For example, the NUC approved 30 courses across five faculties (Agriculture; Arts, Social & Management Sciences; Environmental Sciences; Mass Communication & Broadcasting; Sciences & Computing) in its initial phase. 

Later, programme approval expanded into 

medicine

engineering

nursing

pharmacy


##Campus Life and Facilities
Campus life at Hensard University is described as student-centred, secure and oriented toward holistic development. Some of the highlights include:

The campus setting in Toru-Orua offers a less congested environment than major urban campuses, enabling focus and community feel, while still being accessible from the state capital and airport. 

Accommodation: separate male and female hostel blocks are already in use, with reports of modern rooms and living amenities. 

Learning environment: smart lecture halls with ICT support, library, e-learning centre, research spaces and collaborative learning are emphasised. 

Student support & security: The campus is described as secured, with nearby military and civil defence formations and surveillance. This contributes to student safety and well-being. 

Entrepreneurial and global exposure: Beyond lectures, the university emphasises mentorship programmes, industrial/business involvement of students, international collaborations and dual certification—so campus life includes extra-curricular opportunities tied to skills and employability.