- By Acho Elendu
Seven thousand, eight hundred (7,800) new students were formally admitted into Abia State University at the 38th Matriculation Ceremony of the University for the 2019/2020 academic session, held yesterday, Tuesday, 18th February, 2020.
The breakdown is as follows:
1. Postgraduate
Ph.D – 116
M.sc – 187
PGD – 54
2. Undergraduate – 6,842
3. Institute for Continuing Education (ICE) – Undergraduates – 124.
4. Affliate Schools:
Peace Land College of Education, Enugu – 457
Hugh Goldie Lay/Theological Training Institution, Arochukwu- 20.
The Matriculation Oath was administered on the Students by the Ag. Registrar, Mr. A.O Nkama.
In his Address, the Vice-Chancellor, Distinguished Professor E. Uche Ikonne congratulated the Matriculating students and advised them to be careful of the company they keep so that they are not lured into membership of illicit organizations that may cost them their lives, permanent injuries and loss of their studentship. Rather, he encouraged them to feel free to join such organizations that will enhance their physical and spiritual content as part of their personalty development.
He further disclosed that all forms of cultism and it’s activities are anathema to the University environment, as all students are guaranteed maximum protection from any form of molestation by the tight security network and firm administrative structure in the University. According to the Vice-Chancellor, ”
I have assumed the status of your “Senior Course Rep”, even as your Vice-Chancellor, so as to remove all bureaucracies to attend to your problems. You can always, reach me via SMS only through my dedicated phone number which you will collect from the University Public Relations Officer”.
The Vice-Chancellor further informed the fresh students that they have been enrolled into an institution of “Excellence and Service”, with academic and administrative structure that will enable them overcome their inherent challenges, achieve lofty dreams and make them major players in the 21st Century economic activities of the globe.
To achieve this, he charged them to exercise great responsibility of abiding by the rules and regulations of the University, live by the words and spirit of the Matriculation Oath and keep healthy company.
He expressed joy that the University has continued to expand its academic base by the addition of new academic Programmes including Civil Engineering and Pharmacy, disclosing that all courses offered in the University are in good standing in terms of accreditation from both the NUC and Regulatory bodies hence our students gradaute as at when due.
The Vice-Chancellor disclosed that the “Our Story Must Change” Agenda of his Administration has positively impacted on all facets of the University and enjoined the new students to key into it.
The Vice-Chancellor thanked the Governor and Visitor to the University, Okezie Victor Ikpeazu Ph.D for his unprecedented support to the University and for the appointment of HRH, Professor James Ayatse, Tor-Tiv, as the Honorable Chancellor of the University, which has added a noticable quantum to the success story of the University Administration.
He appreciated the support of the Pro-Chancellor, His Excellency Senator Adolf Wabara Ph.D, the Governing Council, Management, Senate, Staff and Students of the University to the success of the University Administration.
One of the highlights of the Ceremony was a homily by The Rt.Rev Manasses Okere, Bishop, Anglican Communion, Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Diocese.
