Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, is preparing to graduate 8,157 students during its 2023/2024 academic session convocation, scheduled to commence on Wednesday, March 25.
The event will begin with a convocation lecture delivered by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume.
Speaking at a press briefing held at the institution’s conference hall, the acting Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Joseph Ikechebelu, revealed that students from various faculties would be conferred with degrees during the ceremony.
The convocation, marking the university’s 19th edition, will also see the conferment of honorary degrees on three distinguished individuals in recognition of their contributions to the institution’s growth and service to humanity.
The honorees include Minister of Health, Dr. Ali Pate; Oluwaseyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu; and industrialist Chief Chika Emenike.
Prof. Ikechebelu assured that adequate security measures have been put in place for the event, ensuring a smooth and safe convocation ceremony for students and visitors.
“We want to give God the glory for an opportunity like this. About 8,157 students will be graduating from the 2023/2024 academic session, and they will receive various degrees. The graduates will receive degrees in various categories,” he stated.
Reflecting on the institution’s journey, he noted, “UNIZIK started as a state school before it became federal, and that is why today, we are having our 19th convocation ceremony. Last year, the institution went through several challenges, and thanks to President Bola Tinubu, it is enjoying the stability it has today.”
The acting vice-chancellor highlighted UNIZIK’s commitment to excellence in academics, infrastructure, and administration, stating that his role is to foster an environment that supports both staff and students in achieving their full potential.
“Our staff and students are happy because we have been meeting their needs. This is a public university owned by the Federal Government, and we are running it with the mindset of productivity, but what has changed since I took over is the mindset of productivity. Everybody is now focused on productivity,” he explained.
He also addressed security concerns on campus, acknowledging challenges such as vandalism and scavengers. However, he affirmed that the institution’s internal security team remains vigilant. “We have digitalised most of our activities. These are the things we have achieved, and we are still going to do more. UNIZIK is back to its good times,” he added.
Ikechebelu further spoke on the high electricity costs the university incurs, particularly as it falls under Band A, with monthly bills ranging between N80 million and N100 million. He highlighted steps taken to manage this burden, including strategic partnerships.
“The school now has a steady electricity supply. We receive about N80 million to N100 million electricity bills because we are on Band A. It was difficult for the university to shoulder this responsibility alone, so we partnered with those who offered services at the institution, and that has been a success for us,” he said.
Regarding the honorary degree recipients, he emphasized their outstanding track records and impact on both the university and society.
“The institution will confer honorary degrees on the Minister of Health, Dr. Ali Pate, Oluwaseyi Tinubu, and an industrialist, Chief Chika Emenike. These men have been selected because of their track record and the impact they have made in our university and society at large,” he noted.
Ikechebelu also mentioned the ongoing infrastructural projects on campus, assuring that they are progressing as planned.
With preparations in full swing, UNIZIK’s 19th convocation promises to be a momentous occasion, celebrating academic achievements and recognizing notable contributions to education and society.
