₦airaland Forum

ADVERTISEMENT FOR 2021/2022 ACADEMIC SESSION POST UTME/DIRECT ENTRY SCREENINGS
This is to inform the general public that registration for the Post-Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (Post-UTME)/Direct Entry Screening Tests of Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike, (AE-FUNAI), Ebonyi State, shall commence on Tuesday, 21st September, 2021 and end on Monday, 25th October, 2021.
Interested candidates who must have scored 150 and above in the 2021 UTME and who made Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State their first choice Institution in their application for admission in the 2021Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and Direct Entry candidates are hereby informed that the University’s Post-UTME Screening exercise for the under-listed programmes is scheduled to hold from Tuesday, 2nd November, 2021 to Friday, 5th November, 2021.
NOTE 1:
Candidates who applied to study Medicine and Surgery must have a minimum score of 250 in the UTME and candidates who applied to study Law must have a minimum score of 240 in the UTME to be eligible for the University’s Post-UTME Screening.
S/N FACULTY PROGRAMME

1. Faculty of Agriculture 1. Agribusiness and Management
2. Agriculture (Agricultural Economics and Extension, Animal Science, Crop Science
Soil Science (options)
3. Fisheries and Aquaculture
2. Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences 1. Anatomy
2. Physiology
3. Faculty of Biological Sciences 1. Biology
2. Biotechnology
3. Biochemistry
4. Microbiology

4. Faculty of Education 1. Education/English and Literary Studies
2. Educational Administration and Management
3. Guidance and Counseling
4. Biology Education
5. Chemistry Education
6. Mathematics Education
7. Physics Education
8. Physical and Health Education
9. Agricultural Science and Education
10. Business Education

5.
Faculty of Engineering and Technology 1. Chemical Engineering
2. Civil Engineering
3. Electrical/Electronics Engineering
4. Mechanical Engineering
5. Mechatronics Engineering
6. Faculty of Environmental Sciences 1. Architecture
2. Fine and Applied Arts
3. Geography


7.
Faculty of Humanities 1. English and Literary Studies
2. French
3. Linguistics
4. Linguistics/French
5. Linguistics/Igbo
6. Theatre Arts
7. Igbo
8. Music
9. History and Strategic Studies
10. Philosophy
11. Religion and Cultural Studies
8.
Faculty of Law 1. Law
9. Faculty of Management Sciences 1. Accountancy
2. Banking and Finance
3. Business Administration
10. Faculty of Physical Sciences 1. Chemistry
2. Computer Science
3. Mathematics
4. Statistics
5. Geology
6. Geophysics
7. Physics
11. Faculty of Social Sciences 1. Economics
2. Political Science
3. Psychology
4. Criminology and Security Studies
5. Sociology
6. Mass Communication

12.
College of Medical Sciences 1. Medicine and Surgery



NOTE 2:
However, there shall be no Direct Entry admission into Medicine and Surgery and Law programmes.

NOTE.3:
The VENUE for the screening tests is the University’s Computer Based Test (CBT) Centre, which is located at Zone A in the University Campus. The DATE and TIME of test for each registered candidate shall be communicated to him/her through the registration acknowledgement slip, which can be printed from the University Portal.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Prospective candidates who scored a minimum of 250 for Medicine and Surgery, 240 for Law and a minimum of 150 for other programmes and did not choose AE-FUNAI as their first choice Institution, but wish to study in AE-FUNAI are eligible to apply for PUTME. However, such candidates must effect ‘Change of Institution/Course’ to AE-FUNAI on the JAMB Portal before Friday, 22nd October, 2021. This is also applicable to Direct Entry (DE) candidates.
1. Successful candidates, who may be offered provisional admission to AE-FUNAI, are advised to accept the offer within two weeks or the offer shall be deemed to have been forfeited.
2. Prospective candidates who may wish to register for the Post-UTME through the AE-FUNAI ICT points, should visit:
• the University CBT Centre at Zone A in the University Campus OR
• Centre for Educational Services (JUPEB/Pre-Degree School), Aguogboriga Estate, Abakaliki
• OR any other location.
3. During registration, candidates are strongly advised to use GSM numbers that are easily accessible to them. This is important for fast and easy communication.
MODE OF PAYMENT AND REGISTRATION PROCEDURE
Eligible candidates are required to pay a processing fee of N2, 000 only.
• To register, follow the steps outlined below:
• Visit the University website: www.funai.edu.ng, go to ADMISSIONS at the top menu or QUICK LINKS,
• Click on 2021/2022 UTME Admission Screening OR 2021/2022 Direct Entry Admission Screening
• Click on “Prospective Students”
• Click on “Click to Apply” under 2021/2022 Admission Screening Application
• Enter your “JAMB Registration Number”
• Select your payment mode (Generate Remita Retrieval Reference Number).
• Proceed to any bank for your payment with your Remita number.
• Return to the Application page and enter your “JAMB Registration Number” again.
• Proceed with the completion of the form
• Submit your application.
• Print out your acknowledgement slip and come with it for the Post-UTME/Direct Entry Test.
For registration support: E-mail: info@funai.edu.ng Hotline: 09097775919



TEST REQUIREMENTS
Candidates are required to come with the following items:
1. Print-out of Registration Acknowledgement Slip which MUST INDICATE the date and time for the test. The Registration Acknowledgement Slip can be downloaded and printed from the University’s website.
2. 2021/2022 Original UTME Result Slip showing candidate’s picture (in colour) and score.
3. Direct Entry (DE) candidates should come with their original Direct Entry Application Slip showing candidates’ picture (in colour)
4. Pencil

**Please Note that the University shall not be liable for:
1. Any payment made into a wrong account number
2. Registering with an incorrect JAMB Registration Number
3. Generating a fraudulent Remita Invoice/Receipt or making any fraudulent payment
For inquiries: E-mail: info@funai.edu.ng Hotlines: 08035016585, 07031810065,
08060416716, 08061115790

Signed:
Odisa C. Okeke (Mrs.)
Registrar

ADMISSION INTO THE ALEX EKWUEME FEDERAL UNIVERSITY, NDUFU-ALIKE, CENTRE FOR EDUCATIONAL SERVICES (JUPEB AND PRE-DEGREE PROGRAMMES) 2021/2022 SESSION

Applications are invited from suitably qualified candidates into the AE-FUNAI Centre for Educational Services (AE-FUNAI CES) for admission into a non-resident JUPEB and Pre-Degree programmes of the Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike, (AE-FUNAI), Ebonyi State. The Pre-degree programme is designed to prepare candidates for admission into degree programmes in all disciplines (excluding Medicine and Surgery) of the University while the JUPEB programme is a 10-month intensive coaching programme designed to prepare candidates for direct entry admission into the 200-level of departments of candidates’ choices in AE-FUNAI and the over 75 universities in Nigeria and abroad affiliated to the Joint Universities Preliminary Examinations Board (JUPEB). Successful students who had applied to study Medicine and Surgery, Law, Architecture in AE-FUNAI will be admitted into 100-level through the keenly competed admission process.

 

ELIGIBILITY

Candidates for the programmes must possess a minimum of five (5) credits in five (5) relevant subjects (including English Language and Mathematics) at a maximum of two sittings. Candidates wishing to study Medicine and Surgery are expected to have earned the relevant credits ONLY in ONE sitting.




DURATION

The JUPEB programme normally runs for two (2) semesters within about ten (10) calendar months. The Pre-degree programme also lasts for about the same period.




The AE-FUNAI Centre for Educational Services (AE-FUNAI CES) will prepare candidates for admission into Bachelors’ degree programmes in the following faculties:  

AGRICULTURE
Agribusiness Management
Agric Economics & Extension
Animal Science
Crop Science
Soil Science
Fisheries and Aquaculture

BASIC MEDICAL SCIENCES
Anatomy
Physiology

BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES
Biology
Biotechnology
Biochemistry
Microbiology

COLLEGE OF MEDIICAL SCIENCES

1.      Medicine & Surgery





 

EDUCATION


Agricultural Science Education
Biology Education
Business Education
Chemistry Education
English and Literary Studies Education
Guidance & Counseling Education
Mathematics Education
Physical & Health Education
Physics Education

10.  Vocational &Technical Education


ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
Chemical Engineering
Civil Engineering
Electrical and Electronics Engineering
Mechanical Engineering

5.   Mechatronics Engineering


ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES
Architecture
Fine and Applied Arts
Geography

HUMANITIES
English and Literary Studies
French
History & Strategic Studies
Igbo
Linguistics/Igbo
Linguistics/French
Linguistics/English
Music
Philosophy
Religion
Theatre Arts

LAW
Law

MANAGEMENT SCIENCES
Accounting
Banking and Finance
Business Administration

PHYSICAL SCIENCES
Chemistry
Computer Science
Mathematics
Statistics
Geology
Geophysics
Physics

SOCIAL SCIENCES

1.      Criminology & Security Studies

2.      Economics

3.      Political Science

4.      Psychology

5.      Sociology

6.      Mass Communication




More information on subject combinations for the JUPEB and Pre-Degree programmes can be found on our e-Portal (http://www.ces.funai.edu.ng/programmes).

 

APPLICATION FEE: Ten thousand Naira (N10, 000.00) only.

 

METHOD OF APPLICATION

Applications are to be made online. Visit the AE-FUNAI CES e-Portal (ces.funai.edu.ng). On the menu bar, click on e-Portal, and select “Start Online Application” from the drop-down menu. You will be required to supply your email address and other information to start your online application.
After creating an account, login with your Application No. and Password and follow the necessary processes to capture your personal information.
On your Account on the e-Portal, generate your Remita Retrieval Reference Number (RRR) for payment. Payment can be easily made with your Credit/Debit Card or at any Nigerian Bank branch. After successful payment, click the required button to continue your online application.
Ensure that all sections of your application form are correctly filled, and click on “Complete Application” to submit your application to our online server. Our server shall acknowledge receipt of your form by sending a mail to your email address and SMS to your Mobile Phone. Print two colored copies of your Application Form.

 

GENERAL INFORMATION

Applicants into 2021/2022 JUPEB and Pre-degree programmes are advised to check the AE-FUNAI CES website (ces.funai.edu.ng) for other relevant information.
Applicants must provide a recent colored passport photograph (taken not earlier than 3 months before the time of application) with a white background. Selfies, blurred and webcam photos are strictly prohibited. Applicants who upload wrong bio-data and credentials will be disqualified and forfeit application fee.
Applicants are to report to the AE-FUNAI CES for Registration and Screening, ONLY when they have received an Invitation (through e-mail) and Admission Letter approved by the Director. Applicants are hereby advised to use valid e-mail addresses and PERSONAL telephone numbers.
Applicants are advised to follow the application instructions carefully and ensure they follow the stipulated guidelines. Failure to do so may adversely affect the candidate. For application related inquiries, please see the detailed Candidate Guide at ces.funai.edu.ng/guide-for-candidates or contact the Webmaster via webmaster@ces.funai.edu.ng.

 

DISCLAIMER

Please note that AE-FUNAI HAS NOT AUTHORIZED any person(s) or agent(s), whether corporate or individual, to sell application forms on its behalf. Application is strictly online and is to be made only on the AE- FUNAI CES e-Portal (www.ces.funai.edu.ng).

 

FURTHER ENQUIRIES

All inquiries are to be made to the Secretary, Centre for Educational Services. Contacts: 08033065655, 08036978567 and 08067754836. (Please call during office hours only, 8 am-4 pm). E-mail: info@ces.funai.edu.ng

 

CLOSING DATE

Submission of online forms will close on Sunday, 31st January 2022 at 11.59 pm.




Odisa C. Okeke (Mrs.)

Registrar

The irrevocable commitment of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State to academic excellence, by emphasizing production-led and solution-driven research has started yielding enormous dividends, as 11 of its academic staff have secured research grants from international institutions and the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) to carry out impactful studies in different areas.

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Director, Centre for Climate Change and Development, Prof. Chukwumerije Okereke
In the international front, Prof. Chukwumerije Okereke of the Department of Political Science, secured a research grant worth Three Hundred and Seventy Two Thousand Euros (€372,000) from the French Development Agency, while Dr. Chinwe Ogunji of the Department of Educational Foundation was awarded a research fellowship grant from ACU worth Five Thousand pounds (£5,000) even as Dr. Evelyn Urama of the Department of English and Literary Studies also secured a virtual fellowship grant of One Thousand Euros (€1,000) from Leeds University, United Kingdom.

More so, Dr. Makuachukwu Ojide of the Department of Economics and Developmental Studies received a research grant of Six Thousand Eight Hundred and Seventy Five Euros (€6, 875.79) from Wageningen University, Netherlands. This is the balance of €13, 751.58 grant awarded to him in 2018, having received €6,875.79 in 2019.



Also, Engr. Dr. Chukwunonye Ezea of the Department of Civil Engineering secured a research grant of Twenty Thousand Pound (£20,000) from the Royal Academy of Engineering, United Kingdom, while Dr. Nwabueze Elom of the Chemistry Department secured a research grant from the Royal Society of Chemistry, United Kingdom worth Four Thousand Pounds (£4,000).

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Dr. Makuachukwu Ojide
At the domestic front, a team of researchers under the leadership of Prof. Onuegbu O. Ugwu, Director of Research and Development of the University, secured a TETFund research grant worth Twenty Five Million Naira (N25, 000, 000) through their work titled “Integrated Decision Support for Sustainable Infrastructure Assessment and Reporting in Nigeria” , and another team of researchers led by Dr. Peter Okoli through their work titled “Development of Isotope Fingerprinting Protocol for Efficient Implementation of Polluter Pays Principle in the Management of Environmental Pollution Emanating from Lead Mining Activities in Nigeria” further secured a TETFund research grant in the sum of Thirty Nine Million, Eight Hundred and Sixty Two Thousand Naira (N39, 862, 000). Ugwu and Okoli are of the departments of Civil Engineering and Chemistry respectively.

Similarly Mr. Ugochukwu C. Okolie of the Vocational and Technical Education received N200, 000, which was a balance of a N400, 000 research grant awarded to him 2019.

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Dr. Chinwe Ogunji
It is instructive to note that all the grants were secured in 2021, which underscores the avowed commitment of the AE-FUNAI academic staff to the clarion call made by Vice-Chancellor on his assumption office, when he urged all staff to be focused and dedicated to their responsibilities in order to achieve the University’s core mandates of teaching, research and community service.



While speaking on the importance of his work, one of the recipients of the research grants, Dr. Nwabueze Elom, Acting Head, Department of Chemistry, noted that in Ebonyi state, artisanal lead(Pb) mining has been ongoing for over sixty years and as a result , both current and abandoned mining sites abounds in residential Ebonyi communities.

He also stated that he had researched extensively on environmental and health risks of Pb and other contaminants from numerous mining sites in Ebonyi communities, adding that his current research is tailored towards the determination of Blood Lead Levels (BLLs) of children and adults living near the mining sites.

Dr. Elom further noted that the result of his study would have significant societal impact because it will be used to enlighten the community dwellers on the risks of living close to mining sites and also educate governmental regulatory bodies on the necessity of formulating and enforcing environmental laws.

The Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu=Alike, Ebonyi State has launched its 2nd Decennial Development Plan, otherwise known as Vision 2031, geared towards repositioning it as one of the best universities in Nigeria in the next 10 years.

The launch took place yesterday during the 8th public lecture of the University delivered by the Pro-Chancellor/Chairman, Governing Council of the institution, Emeritus Prof. Nimi Briggs.

The event also marked the commencement of Clinical training for 48 pioneer students of the College of Medical Sciences of the University.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom and some dignitaries and Pioneer Clinical Students at the event
Delivering a lecture themed ‘’The Imperatives of Excellence in Clinical Medical Education’’, Briggs who is an Emeritus Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology acknowledged the efforts of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sunday Elom in getting accreditation for the College of Medical Sciences, while praying God to grant him more grace to execute his other plans in order take the university to a higher level.



He also extolled the achievement of the university in its 10 years of existence (2011-2021), adding that the Governing Council was satisfied with the growth of the university.



Speaking further, Emeritus Prof. Briggs in the lecture addressed the concept of a university and its mission and explained that excellence is integral and pivotal to the achievements of all the objectives for which a university is established. He observed university ranking as one of the many ways of assessing and comparing universities on the achievements of their mission and their stand in the view of the public as well as the contributions that scholars make to their universities.

He also x-rayed the College of Medical Sciences of the University as a subset of AE-FUNAI and showed that it is also held to the same account of excellence as is required of the University and that its specialised role in patient care through its affiliate teaching hospital (AE-FUTHA), demands even greater diligence and commitment.

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Emeritus Prof. Nimi Briggs speaking at the event
The Emeritus Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology also recommended that every academic staff of the University be made to register as a Google scholar, as this will enable the productivity and citation impacts which are products of academic activities of every academic staff be automatically and regularly monitored and be readily available in the public space.



Addressing the Clinical Students, he said: ‘’I congratulate you the pioneer clinical students of AE-FUNAI for getting to this stage of your education in your quest to become medical doctors’’.

Adding “This calls for gratitude to the Almighty God and even greater commitment to your work in the years to come.

‘’As you acquire these highly demanding and sophisticated skills, strive also to acquire the attitude of compassion, tolerance, empathy and character’’.

While declaring the event open, the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Elom noted that the occasion was another milestone in the history of the young University, as the 8th public lecture marked the official commencement of clinical studies for the first set of students of the College of Medical Sciences and the Launching of the 2nd AE-FUNAI Decennial Development Plan.

He also pointed out that the University’s College of Medical Sciences is the third federally-funded College of Medicine in the whole of the Southeast Nigeria, adding “With today’s event, it is expected that our clinical students will graduate in record time without the hitches often associated with the MBBS programme in many public Universities in Nigeria.”

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom, addressing the gathering
Prof. Elom maintained that as a University, “we are irrevocably committed to academic excellence. It is the plan of my administration to make the College of Medicine the flagship programme in order to carve a niche for the University in Medical Education.



“We will continue to invest relevant human and material resources as well as the needed infrastructure to make this dream a reality.

“For our students that will be commencing clinical studies, it is yet another phase of your training. Our University as you know is reputed for its serious academic activities. Therefore, I charge you to take your clinical training very seriously so that you will graduate on schedule.

“We will endeavour to ensure that all the necessary things are put in place to enable you fulfil your dreams of becoming medical doctors”, he concluded.

While also speaking at the historic event, the Chief Medical Director of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital Abakaliki (AE-FUTHA), Dr. Emeka Onwe Ogah, called for synergy between the University and the teaching hospital in order to ensure the successful training of the clinical students.



Speaking further, Ogah advised the students to be focused on their studies and to always discuss with Management on whatever challenges they might be facing in the institution, urging them to shun the frenzy going on in the social media.

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CMD, AE-FUTHA, Dr. Emeka Onwe Ogah speaking at the occasion
He also commended the Board of the teaching hospital and the Governing Council of the University for establishing a good and workable Memorandum of Understanding, adding that on their part they will do their best to ensure that the students were properly trained, even as he also encouraged the lecturers and consultants to make sure the students were given the best.

Presenting a good will message, the Governor of Ebonyi State, HE Engr. David Nweze Umahi, noted that the emergence of Prof. Elom as the 3rd Vice-Chancellor of AE-FUNAI was a rare gift to the government and people of Ebonyi state because of his sterling past records and contributions to mankind, stating “We have no doubt that he will take AE-FUNAI to greater heights”

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Commissioner of Education, Dr. Sunday Nwangele speaking at the event
The Governor who was represented by the Hon. Commissioner for Education, Dr. Sunday Nwangele assured the clinical students of the state government’s support in the pursuit of their medical career.

Earlier in her welcome remarks, the Chairman, Inaugural and Public Lecture Committee, Prof. Rosemary Igbo appreciated the Pro-Chancellor/Chairman, Governing Council of the University, for volunteering to present the 8th public lecture, adding that the lecture will help to bring about the best practices in medical education in the University in particular and Nigeria at large.

She further applauded the combined efforts of Management of both AE-FUNAI and AE-FUTHA in making the event a reality.

Highlight of the event was the presentation of award of honour to the 8th public lecturer, Emeritus Prof. Briggs by the Management of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State.

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Registrar, Odisa C. Okeke (Mrs.), on behalf of Management, presenting the award of honour Emeritus Prof. Nimi Briggs


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A cross section of dignitaries at the event

Stakeholders in the field of arts have called for unity among the different ethnic groups in Nigeria, noting that it is the surest path to the nation’s sustainable development.

They made the call recently during a two-day national conference and arts exhibition organized by the Departments of Fine and Applied Arts, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State and Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria held at the Needs Assessment Building, AE-FUNAI.

The conference themed “Conceptions, Cultural Diversity and Ethnicity” which was organized in collaboration with the National Gallery of Arts, Enugu, brought together scholars and practitioners in the field of arts across the country, to deliberate on how to instil unity in the Nigerian society in spite of the obvious diversities, as seen in our ethnic, cultural and religious differences.

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Rep. of the VC, Prof. Omaka N. Omaka (7th L) in a group photograph with some participants at the conference
While delivering the keynote address of the conference, Prof. Clifford Nwanna affirmed that Cultural diversity and Ethnicity exist in the mind, and appealed to Nigerians to employ the two concepts in emphasizing and promoting unity in the country and not the opposite.

He equally advised the citizenry to showcase those things that unite the nation and not things that divide it, stressing that the ingredients for national unity include good governance, transparency and rule to rule, and thereby advocated for every part of the country to be given a sense of belonging.

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Keynote Speaker, Prof. Clifford Nwanna speaking at the event
He further enjoined the nation’s leaders to eschew marginalization, oppression, religious bigotry, injustice and segregation amongst others and embrace the best global practices in governance.

Welcoming the participants to the event, the Chairman of the occasion,Dr. Henry Aloh, expressed his delight that the department of Fine and Applied Arts of the University has grown so big to have organised a conference of such nature, adding that AE-FUNAI has also proven to be the fastest growing institution in Nigeria.



Dr. Alo who is the Director, Health Services of the University and a lover of arts noted that in Nigeria, people seems to erroneously believe that the nation’s weakness is due to her cultural, ethnic and religious diversities, stressing that it is high time Nigerians started exploring how to make the nation’s cultural diversity become an advantage in all spheres of our national life rather than seeing it as an albatross.

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Chairman of the Occasion, Dr. Henry Aloh delivering his opening remarks at the conference
He adduced that the conference was apt because it focused on a very important aspect of our national life, noting that the country can no longer pretend that all is well, while urging the citizenry to eschew ethnic bias and work together to make the country great by accepting that God created us to be different from one another.

He said, ‘’diversity is what we should use as an advantage and not disadvantage’’.

While declaring the conference open, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sunday Elom who was represented by the Dean, Faculty of Physical Sciences, Prof. Omaka N. Omaka, noted that the theme of the conference ‘’Conceptions, Cultural Diversity and Ethnicity’’ captures the thinking of the University, as people from different ethnic nationalities are represented as both staff and student in the institution.

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Rep. of VC, Prof. Omaka N. Omaka addressing the participants at the conference


‘’We are very proud of that and we are moving to harness our commitment to ensure that in AE-FUNAI, we have staff and students from different parts of the country and beyond”.



He added that the University is interested in improving the capacity of the department of Fine and Applied Arts to be result-oriented and relevance which resulted to it being moved from the Faculty of Humanities to Environmental Sciences.

‘’We are growing and we are doing things in numerous ways to better the department of Fine and Applied Arts’’ he said, as he urged the staff and students of the faculty not to be focused on delivering the mandates of the department in particular and the University in general.

Earlier is in his opening remarks, the Head, Department of Fine and Applied Arts, AE-FUNAI, Dr. Ephraim Ugochukwu, noted that the department will continue to show seriousness in all its academic activities, adding that the academic standard already established in the University will be maintained even as efforts are on top-gear to ensure that the Fine and Applied Arts programme meets global best practices.

He further thanked the Management and staff of the Department of Fine and Applied Arts, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria for collaborating with his department in making the conference a reality.

Other notable academics in the field of Arts that graced the event include, Prof. Ken Okoli, Prof. Gills Gambo Dunniya, Dr. Sylvester Dangoje and many others.

The Department of Fine and Applied Arts, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, in collaboration with the National Gallery of Arts, Enugu has concluded its national conference and arts exhibition.

The conference themed “Conceptions, Cultural Diversity and Ethnicity”, which was held at the Needs Assessment Building from Tuesday, 24th to Thursday 26th August, 2021 brought together scholars in the fields of arts across Nigeria who deliberated on how the citizenry can recognize the cultural diversities that exist within the Nigerian society and try to respect each others’ ethnic differences.

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Rep. of the VC, Prof. Omaka N. Omaka (7th L) in a group photograph with some participants at the conference
Delivering his welcome speech, the Chairman of the occasion, Dr. Henry Aloh, expressed his delight that the department of Fine and Applied Arts of the University has grown so big to have organised a conference of such nature, adding that AE-FUNAI has also proven to be the fastest growing institution in Nigeria.



Dr. Alo who is the Director, Health Services of the University and a lover of arts noted that in Nigeria, people seems to erroneously believe that the nation’s weakness is due to her diversity, stressing that it is nigh time Nigerians started exploring how to make the nation’s cultural diversity become an advantage in politics, development and other areas of our national life rather than seeing it as an albatross.

https://funai.edu.ng/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/ART2X.jpg
Chairman of the Occasion, Dr. Henry Aloh delivering his opening remarks at the conference
He adduced that the conference is apt because it focused on a very important aspect of our national life, noting that the country can no longer pretend that all is well, while urging the citizenry to eschew ethnic bias and work together to make the country great by accepting that God created us to be different from one another.

He said, ‘’diversity is what we should use as an advantage and not disadvantage’’.

While making his opening remarks, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sunday Elom who was represented by the Dean, Faculty of Physical Sciences, Prof. Omaka N. Omaka, noted that the theme of the conference ‘’Conceptions, Cultural Diversity and Ethnicity’’ is what makes the University thick, as people from different nationalities are represented as both staff and student in the institution.

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Rep. of VC, Prof. Omaka N. Omaka addressing the participants at the conference
‘’We are very proud of that and we are moving to harness our commitment to ensure that in AE-FUNAI, we have staff and students from different parts of the country and beyond”.



He added that the University is interested in improving the capacity of the department of Fine and Applied Arts to be result-oriented and relevance which resulted to it being moved from the Faculty of Humanities to Environmental Sciences.

‘’We are growing and we are doing things in numerous ways to better the department of Fine and Applied Arts’’ he said, as he urged the staff and students of the faculty not to be focused on delivering the mandates of the department in particular and the University in general.

Delivering the keynote address, Prof. Clifford Nwanna affirmed that Cultural diversity and Ethnicity exist in the mind, appealing that they should be used to emphasize unity in Nigeria and not the opposite.

https://funai.edu.ng/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/ART4X.jpg
Keynote Speaker, Prof. Clifford Nwanna speaking at the event
He advised Nigerians to showcase things that unite the nation and not things that divide it, stressing that the ingredients for national unity include good governance, transparency and rule to rule, and thereby advocated for every part of the country to be given a sense of belonging.



He further enjoined the nation’s leaders to eschew marginalization, oppression, religious bigotry, injustice and segregation amongst others and embrace the best global practices.

Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State is set to benefit from two intervention projects of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

This was made known yesterday by the Head, Development Finance Office, Central Bank of Nigeria, Abakaliki branch, Sir Chijioke Ahuakagha, when he led a team of the apex bank officials on a courtesy visit to the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Sunday Elom.

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Head, Development Finance Office, Central Bank of Nigeria, Abakaliki branch, Sir Chijioke Ahuakagha presenting the apex bank’s letter of intent to the VC, Prof. Sunday Elom during the visit
He explained that the Development Finance Office is a Unit of the Development Department of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), adding that the Office is in charge of all the interventions of the apex bank in Ebonyi State.



He maintained that under the leadership of Mr. Godwin Emefiele, the CBN is partnering with Nigerian universities through two schemes, which include Tertiary Institutions Entrepreneurship Scheme and Tertiary Institutions Poultry Revival Scheme, noting that AE-FUNAI has been selected as one of the benefiting universities.

Speaking further, Ahuakagha noted the Tertiary Institutions Entrepreneurship Scheme is geared towards engendering a paradigm shift in the university system by equipping students with specific life skills to be self-reliant on graduation. Through the scheme, he continued, the CBN provides funding and also equips the Centre for Entrepreneurship in universities to enhance their capacities to train students in practical skills.

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VC, Prof. Sunday (C) in a group photograph with Head, Development Finance Office, Central Bank of Nigeria, Abakaliki branch, Sir Chijioke Ahuakagha and his colleague Mrs. Adaku Anyanwu during the visit
Similarly, the banker staid the Tertiary Institutions Poultry Revival Scheme is meant to boost poultry production in the Agriculture value chain, adding that it is also to foster local innovation and enhance the capacity of local people in poultry production. The cardinal objective, he said, is to improve food security, enhance the research base and employment opportunities among the citizens.



He further revealed that the fund available for the tertiary institutions poultry scheme is about Four Hundred Million (N400, 000, 000), stressing that it could be used by any benefiting university to start new poultry farms (Greenfield) or for the revival of already existing ones (brownfield).

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom (on white) and some members of Management in a group photograph with the CBN team led by Head, Development Finance Office, Central Bank of Nigeria, Abakaliki branch, Sir Chijioke Ahuakagha (4th L)
The Vice-Chancellor, who was excited by the news, noted that AE-FUNAI is a relatively new university that needs such interventions to be able to fulfill her mandates of teaching, research and community service.



He also stated that the objective of the University is to graduate students with the functional knowledge and sellable skills to be relevant and productive in a globalized economy.

Prof. Elom further stressed the importance of the two schemes in actualizing the vision of the University even as he promised to do everything to ensure the University benefits from it.

He also observed that the University already has a functional Centre for Entrepreneurship and Employability, and two poultry farms that are under construction. And thanked the Central Bank of Nigeria for choosing the University as one of the beneficiaries of the schemes.

AE-FUNAI HOSTS INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON RESOURCE EXTRACTION FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
The Faculty of Physical Sciences in collaboration with the Centre for Climate Change, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State has hosted an international Conference on Resource Extraction for Sustainable Development in a post COVID-19 Era.

The international conference which was held at the Rasheed Adamu Abubakar auditorium from Wednesday, 18th to Friday, 20th August, 2021 brought together academics and policy makers across Nigeria who converged at the university to espouse and proffer solutions for the survival and sustainability of the nation’s natural resources.

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Front Row (L-R): Deputy Registrar, Mrs. Kate Nwankwo, Registrar, Odisa C. Okeke (Mrs), DVC, Academic, Prof. Dennis Akoh, Rep. of the Minister of State for Mines and Steel Development, Engr. Henry Awuruegu, Executive Director, Administration and Training, NTA, Prof. Steve Egbo, a guest, Prof. Chukwu Omaka SAN and University Librarian, Dr. Juliana Akidi in a group photograph after a courtesy call on the VC before the opening ceremony of the conference
Delivering his opening remarks, the Chairman of the occasion, the former Vice-Chancellor, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike, Emeritus Prof. Ikenna Onyido, noted that the conference was to discuss the challenges posed by the intersection of man’s quest for sustainable economic development through the beneficial exploitation of the earth’s abundant natural resources which are now threatening the wellbeing of the planet and its entire inhabitant.

He observed that the necessity to diversify the Nigerian economy in order to wean the country from its near total dependence on oil revenue by creating alternative non-oil revenue streams has led to a noticeable uptick in mining activities at both artisanal and industrial scales in the state.

Prof. Onyido however emphasised the importance of periodic surveys to capture in real time the negative effects of the extraction activities with a view to evolving mitigation strategies and ensure that the economic and social benefits from mineral extraction and processing do not occur with the high cost of permanent damage to the environment. He added that the conference proceedings will be an alternative scientific pool on the beneficial linkages between resource extraction and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), as well as managing the environmental challenges arising from increased mining activities.

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Rep. of the Minister of State for Mines and Steel Development, Engr. Nduka Awuruegu delivering the Minister’s speech at the conference
Speaking as the Guest of honour to the event, the Minister of State for Mines and Steel Development, Dr. Uchechukwu Sampson Ogah, noted that the theme of the conference ‘’Resource Extraction for Sustainable Development in a Post Covid-19 Era’’ is apt as the recommendations from the conference will be utilized by government and other strategic stakeholders to make informed decisions for the survival and sustainability of resources of Nigeria, adding that resources can be used, unused and abused.

He applauded the Management of AE-FUNAI for the extraordinary transformation the university has achieved so far, adding that the University has proven to mankind that leadership is not a function of how old, neither a function of geographical location or how much resources that is available to an organization, rather a decision to do things differently.

The Minister who was represented at the event by the Director General, Southeast Chamber of Commerce, Mines, Industry and Agriculture, Engr. Nduka Awuruegu stated that the major problem of labour in Nigeria is unemployability as a lot of people who have certificates lack skills and those that have skills lack certificates, observing that the resultant effect is that when the employers of labour want to hire, they employ those with skills and underpay them. He however assured that the Minister and other stakeholders in the country are in partnership with the organised private sector to bridge the gap.

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Keynote Speaker, Emeritus Prof. Mosto Onuoha delivering his speech at the conference
Delivering his keynote address, the former President, Nigeria Academy of Science, Emeritus Prof. Kalu Mosto Onuoha advocated for the beneficiation of the country’s natural resources, stressing that the only way Nigeria can maximize her natural resources is by converting her comparative advantage to competitive advantage.



He also frowned at the culture of inadequate environmental safety and workers’ training in the extracting sector of the national economy, alluding that these inadequacies have led to environmental disasters and avoidable deaths in the country.

Also speaking on the topic, ‘’Impunity as an Antithesis to Sustainable Development”, the Executive Director, Administration and Training, Nigeria Television Authority, Prof. Steve Egbo expressed his satisfaction at the level of transformation in AE-FUNAI and thanked the Management for making the young university become the most serious public university in Nigeria, and assured the University Management that the Nigeria Television Authority (NTA), will loud the performance and achievements of the University to the world.

Speaking further, he noted that Nigeria despite being the giant of Africa has not been able to provide the requisite leadership for other African countries, which has led to lack of focus and direction in the continent.

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Executive Director, Administration and Training, NTA, Prof. Steve Egbo speaking at the conference
He said ‘’Nigeria is in the state where we are today because of impunity’’, maintaining that everybody is guilty of impunity, describing it as a situation whereby you do something wrong and get away with it. He enjoined the citizenry to join hands together and fight impunity in the country in order to sustain the nation’s resources.

While speaking earlier, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sunday Elom who was represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Dennis Akoh, noted that the University prides itself as the most serious public university in Nigeria, adding that it is evidenced in the way the University conducts her academic activities, and her insistence on the academic calendar.

He stressed that the university has a crop of highly committed academics and non teaching staff who are working together towards achieving the University’s aspiration of becoming a world class institution.

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Rep. of the Minister of State for Mines and Steel Development, Engr. Henry Awuruegu about planting a tree on behalf of the Minister in support of the Campus-Green Initiative of the University
The Vice-Chancellor also used the opportunity to appeal for the support of the Minister in the infrastructural development of the University.



The highlight of the conference was tree planting in support of the campus-green initiative of the university.

The Federal Government is set to establish a Scholar Center for Commerce and Industry at the Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State.

This was made known yesterday by the Minister of State for Mines and Steel Development, Dr. Uchechukwu Ogah during the maiden international conference of the Faculty of Physical Sciences of the University themed “Resource Extraction for Sustainable Development in a Post COVID-19 Era”.

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Front Row (L-R): Deputy Registrar, Mrs. Kate Nwankwo, Registrar, Odisa C. Okeke (Mrs), DVC, Academic, Prof. Dennis Akoh, Rep. of the Minister of State for Mines and Steel Development, Engr. Henry Awuruegu, Executive Director, Administration and Training, NTA, Prof. Steve Egbo, a guest, Prof. Chukwu Omaka SAN and University Librarian, Dr. Juliana Akidi in a group photograph after a courtesy call on the VC before the opening ceremony of the conference


Ogah noted that the problem of Nigeria is not unemployment but unemployability, adding that the nation is in a quagmire as most of her citizens that have certificates lack the requisite skills while those with the relevant skills have no certificates. And due to this gap, he continued, the organized private sector often employs those with the relevant skills but pay them pittance because they have no certificate.



Represented by the Director General, Southeast Chamber of Commerce, Mines, Industry and Agriculture, Engr. Henry Nduka Awuruegu, the Minister stated that they are working together with the organized private sector to bridge the gap between academic and market place, certificates and skills, and town and gown through the setting up of Scholar Center for Commerce and Industry in higher institutions.

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Rep. of the Minister of State for Mines and Steel Development, Engr. Henry Awuruegu delivering the Minister’s speech at the conference


Continuing, he explained that such a Center has already been set up at the Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki, adding that the next one will be established in AE-FUNAI with the support of the University Management.

The Minister further extolled the University and her leadership for maintaining a high academic standard, adding that he was surprised on the spate of academic and infrastructural growth and development in the University in spite of being relatively new (10 years).

“I am proud to be associated with this University. I congratulate the Management and leadership of the University for Job well done



“You have proved that leadership is not a function of how old you are, your geographical location or the amount of resources at your disposal, he concluded”.

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Rep. of the Minister of State for Mines and Steel Development, Engr. Henry Awuruegu about planting a tree on behalf of the Minister in support of the Campus-Green Initiative of the University
The Minister also used the opportunity availed by the conference to support the Campus-Green Initiative of the University by planting a tree at the entrance of the Ababukar Adamu Rasheed Auditorium.

The Campus-Green Initiative is greening project geared towards making the University one of the most eco-friendly and beautiful Universities in Nigeria. It has ensured the planting of over 33, 000 fruits and ornamental trees in different parts of the campus.

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Rep. of the Minister of State for Mines and Steel Development, Engr. Henry Awuruegu planting a tree on behalf of the Minister in support of the Campus-Green Initiative of the University

A 200 level student of English and Literary Studies, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Nancy Amarachi Elijah has won the 2021 Miss Iconic Queen Nigeria beauty pageant.

The event which was held at CPC Event Centre in Owerri, Imo State on 28th July, 2021, saw Nancy defeating 24 other beauty queens drawn from different tertiary institutions across the country to clinch the coveted crown.

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Nancy Amarachi Elijah being crowned the 2021 Miss Iconic Queen Nigeria at the CPC Event Centre, Owerri, Imo State
As a soaring eagle, the judges noted that Nancy exuded lots of intelligence, logical reasoning, focus, creativity, elegance and comportment at the competition, which according to the organizers, distinguished her from the pack.



The Miss Iconic Queen Nigeria is a beauty pageantry geared towards celebrating beautiful young Nigerian ladies, by highlighting their intelligence, creativity, capacity for logical reasoning, boldness, inner strength and other exceptional capabilities.

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Nancy Amarachi Elijah dancing in her traditional regalia at the event
While sharing his story recently, Nancy noted that as the 2021 Miss Iconic Queen Nigeria, she would embark on the promotion of girl-child education and advocacy against gender-based violence, adding that her pet projects will also involve visiting orphanages, and distribution of learning materials/aids to public primary and secondary schools in different parts of Nigeria.



She explained that her emergence as a beauty queen could be traced to preparation and hard work, stressing that in the past two years as a student of AE-FUNAI, she had been imbued with lots of inner strength and courage to face the challenges of life.

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Nancy Amarachi Elijah acknowledging cheers from the audience after winning the coveted crown
She observed that the University has not only made her to be focused and serious-minded in her academic activities, it has also shaped her to be adaptable to any situation and environment she finds herself.



Nancy advised young girls aspiring to become beauty queens in future to be utterly committed to their dreams, noting that beauty pageantry has increased her boldness and charisma, and made her a stronger personality.

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Nancy Amarachi Elijah being presented to the audience after emerging as the 2021 Miss Iconic Queen Nigeria
The feat achieved by Nancy Amarachi Elijah is a testament of the AE-FUNAI students’ diversity. The University is wired towards grooming students that possess the capacities to excel in all aspects of life. In the comity of Nigerian Universities, our students are not only making waves academically, they are also making their marks in various aspects of human endeavour.



This is because the University believes and rightly so, that education is meant to widen students’ horizon, equipping them with the right skill-set and mindset, and the capacity for lateral thinking as well as the ability to discover themselves, and thereby improve their lives and livelihood on graduation without waiting for government employment

Six academic programmes of the Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi state have been accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC).

This is contained in a letter dated 2nd August, 2021 and signed by the Commission’s Director of Accreditation, Dr. Maryam Sali, titled “Results of the October/November, 2020 Accreditation of Academic Programmes in Nigerian Universities.”

Recall that the University had in October/November, 2020 presented some of her academic programmes to the National Universities Commission for accreditation. However, due to the hiatus caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the prolonged ASUU strike, the NUC accreditation panels visited the University for the exercise in March/April, 2021.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom
The breakdown of the accreditation results shows that Religious Studies, Educational Administration, Guidance and Counseling and Computer Science secured full accreditation while Geology and Medicine and Surgery settled for interim accreditation. The implication of the result is that full accreditation status is valid for a period of 5 years while interim is valid for 2 years after which the programmes will be revisited.



With this favorable outcome, the University will continue to run, admit and graduate students in the concerned disciplines.

Reacting to the result of the accreditation exercise, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sunday Elom, noted that the required human and material resources will be put in place to ensure that all academic programmes of the University are not only fully accredited by the NUC but also by their respective professional bodies. He therefore called on staff to breast up to the challenge to ensure that the quality of the institution’s academic activities is maintained at all times.

A lecturer in the department Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Engr. Dr. Chizoo Esonye has emerged 2nd in the 2021 National Academic Publication Competition for academic staff of Faculties of Engineering and Technology in Nigeria.

The competition which was organized under the auspices of Committee of Deans of Faculties of Engineering and Technology (CODET) in Nigeria saw academics from about 38 tertiary institutions within and outside the country participating, with Esonye clinching the 2nd position with an average score of 86.5%.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom (R) in a congratulatory handshake with Engr. Dr. Chizoo Esonye while the Acting Dean, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Engr. Dr. Chukwunonye Ezea looks on when they visited the VC in his office
His research paper titled “Multi –Input Multi-Output (MIMO) ANN and Nelder-Meads’s Simplex Based Modeling of Engine Performance and Combustion Emission Characteristics of Biodiesel-diesel Blend in CI Diesel Engine” was co-authored with Okechukwu Dominic Onukwuli, Akuzuo Uwaoma Ofoefule and Ekechi Ogah Ogah but he is the lead author. Esionye and his team of researchers will receive the award later this year in Abuja.



While congratulating Esonye on his achievement, the Vice-Chancellor,Prof. Sunday Elom, noted that the University is interested in production-led research. He therefore challenged the institution’s academics to embark on research that will provide solutions to the myriad of problems confronting the world.

He also assured them of his commitment and support in making sure that the University justifies its existence by impacting positively on her immediate community and beyond through her research output.

AE-FUNAI ENGINEERING STUDENTS CLINCH 2ND, 3RD POSITIONS IN 2021 CODET AND NCMB COMPETTIONS
Three Students of the Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, have made the university proud in the comity of Nigerian universities, as they clinched 2nd and 3rd positions in two different competitions organized by the Committee of Deans of Engineering and Technology (CODET) in Nigeria and the National Contents and Monitoring Board (NCMB) respectively.

Boniface Chidiebube Godspower of the Department of Mechatronics Engineering came second in the CODET Innovation competition for final year Engineering and Technology students in the Southeast/South-south regions of the country.

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Boniface Chidiebube Godspower presenting his innovation to the VC, Prof. Sunday Elom in his office
Godspower’s final year project, “Automated Water Level Regulator Using GSM”, is an innovation that can help people to pump water into their overhead water tanks by sending a code with their mobile phones. With this innovative idea, people can be in the comfort of their bed rooms and regulate the entrance of water into their overhead tanks using their mobile phones.



Godspower was also one of the selected engineering students that represented the Southeast/South-south zones in the 5th CODET national competition held at the Nigerian Communication Satellite, NICOMSAT, Abuja, on 7th August, 2021, where he was highly commended for his innovation and creativity. The student was prepared for the event by his supervisor, Engr. Uchenna Nwokenkwo and led by Engr. Nkiruka Ogbodo.



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Ekpe Francis Ayuk presenting their 3rd position award to the VC, Prof. Sunday Elom in his office
Similarly, Ekpe Francis Ayuk and Okafor Chukwudi Amos of the Department of Mechanical Engineering took 3rd position in the 2021 National Content Science and Technology Innovation Challenge held in Yenaogua, Beyelsa state.



At the event which was organized by ENACTUS Nigeria in conjunction with the National Contents and Monitoring Board (NCMB), the two students, were applauded for their ingenuity, creativity and innovation in their work ”Solar Photovoltaic Energy in Agriculture”. They were led to the competition by the Head, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Engr. Dr. Uche P. Onochie.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom (2nd L) receiving the award from Ag. Dean, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Engr. Dr. Chukwunonye Ezea and Head, Depart of Mechanical Engineering, Engr. Dr. Uche Onochie while Ekpe Francis looks on


Presenting the students to the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sunday Elom, recently, the Acting Dean, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Engr. Dr. Chukwunonye Ezea noted that the students made the University proud at the competitions, adding that their performances at the competitions have put the name of the university in front burner of national discourse and recognition.



He further noted that the Faculty is in discussion with many national organizations for partnership that would translate many of their ideas into concrete realities, stressing that knowledge transfer is the way to go to make the university relevant in the international academic community. He also thanked the Vice-Chancellor for providing the enabling environment for academic activities to thrive in the University.



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Boniface Chidiebube Godspower presenting his innovation to the VC, Prof. Sunday Elom in his office while Ag. Dean, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Engr. Dr. Chukwunonye Ezea watch
Expressing his delight on the feats achieved by the students, the Vice-Chancellor noted that Management will continue to ensure that students of the University fulfill their potential by ensuring that high academic standard is maintained at all times. He also promised to sponsor the students to the 2022 Science and Technology Expo, to showcase their innovations, and praised the Faculty for exposing their students to the practical aspects of their disciplines.

The attention of the Management of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, has been drawn to a misleading publication in an online platform, Sahara reporters of 6th August, 2021 captioned "Top Government University in Ebonyi Increases Fee from N70, 000 to N300, 000".

The University notes that the said publication and others trending online is laced with lies and half truths meant to discredit the integrity and reputation of the University as one of the most serious public Universities in Nigeria.

For the avoidance of doubt, the hostel fee for medical students in the University is N50, 000 and a refundable caution fee of N20,000, making it a total of N70, 000 for a session.

However, in September 2021, our 400 level medical students are expected to commence their Clinical studies at the Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki.

More importantly, the concerned students are expected to be resident at the teaching hospital which is about 25 kilo meters from the University campus at Ikwo. However, the Medical students' hostel at the teaching hospital is still under construction and will be completed next year.

Thus, the University had two options - one is to suspend the clinical training till the students' hostel is completed. Second, is to devise another means of providing alternative accommodation to the students.

The University, in the interest of the students, meant to ensure that their academic activities are not suspended, negotiated with a private estate owner to rent his fully furnished building, with 150 KVA standby power generating set for uninterrupted power supply, located about 200 meters from the hospital, as hostel for the student.

This is only a stop-gap mechanism, as the students are expected to move into the school hostel being constructed in the teaching hospital immediately it is completed next year. This will automatically normalize their hostel fees.

This interim measure which will cost each student N300,000 will ensure that their academic activities are not put on hold. It will also help in sustaining the accreditation of their programme by the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria, who are expected to come for another round of accreditation exercise by February 2022. It is also important to note that the hostel fees the students are paying are not even enough to offset the total cost of renting the building as the students are only 38 in number. Management will augment the shortfall.

It is therefore surprising that mischief makers and 5th columnists are latching on this interim decision geared towards the sustenance of the academic activities of our students, to denigrate and blackmail the University in the public domain.

Finally, the Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi state, views the academic interests of our students very seriously, and has consistently made sacrifices for their good. This decision was made in their own interest.

Thank you.

Elom Iyke Ubochi
Head, Public Relations & Information
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Two major stakeholders in Ikwo local Government Area, Ikwo Noyo Youth Consultative Forum and Odumaogboji Ancestral Dynasty, and the Forum of former Local Government Chairmen in Ebonyi State (2013-2015) have vowed to support the administration of the Vice-Chancellor of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Prof. Sunday Elom, for overall development of the University.



The 3 groups disclosed this yesterday during their visits meant to congratulate Prof. Elom on his emergence as the 3rd Vice-Chancellor of the University.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom (c) in a group photograph with executive of the Ikwo Noyo Youth Consultative Forum
While speaking during their visit, the President Ikwo Noyo Youth Consultative Forum, Mr. Friday Ilang, noted that the visit was to congratulate Prof. Elom on his meritorious appointment as the 3rd Vice-Chancellor and the first Ebonyian to occupy the position in the University.



He extolled the Vice-Chancellor for his achievements since his assumption of office, noting that evidence shows that he has hit the ground running.

He said: ‘’We appreciate your contributions to the peace, security and development of the university within this short period you have stayed in office, and we have come to assure you of our readiness to partner with you in achieving your set goals and give the University a face-lift of global standard’’.

Mr. Ilang explained that the Forum is an apex body of all Ikwo Youths, cutting across the twenty five wards in five principal communities of Ikwo Clan and plays a complementary role to the parent body; Ikwo Development Union (IDU), in areas of security, peace and human capital development of Ikwo Local Government Area, and pledged to ensure peace, security and all-round development in the University.

Continuing, the President mentioned that the cultural peculiarity of the host community does not negate the activities of institution, adding that it is important for the body to make available some literatures on their socio-cultural history to the University Community; to enable staff and students of sociology, history and other relevant disciplines to conduct further researches on their historical development.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom (C )in group photograph with representatives of the Odumaogbojii Ancestral Dynasty led by Barr. Kelechi Mbam
He further expressed their indebtedness to the Vice-Chancellor for appointing their sons and daughters into some strategic positions in the University, while also soliciting for more in the areas of job and admission opportunities.



Meanwhile, the Odumaogbojii Ancestral Dynasty has also pledged their unalloyed support to the Vice-Chancellor, promising to maintain peace and harmony in the University community.

Speaking on behalf of the dynasty, Barr. Kelechi Mbam, noted that the family owns about 40% of the land where the university is situated, stressing that they were happy the university is sited in Ikwo community because it will bring development closer to their people.

He added that though they have not been compensated by government, the family still maintains peaceful disposition towards the university and pleaded with the Vice-Chancellor to use alternative disputes resolution strategies to resolve the impasse as it will ensure a win-win situation for all parties.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom (c) in a group photograph with representatives of the Forum of former Chairmen of Local Government in Ebonyi State (2013-2015) led by Egr. Jeff Ogbu
Similarly, Engr. Dr. Jeff Ogbu, speaking on behalf of the Forum of former Local Government Chairmen in Ebonyi State-2013-2015 during their visit, noted that they were pleased with the appointment of Prof, Elom as the Vice-Chancellor of the University.



He also stated that the Forum is composed of professionals and experts in different fields of life, adding that the Vice-Chancellor can count on them and utilize their diverse expertise in the development of the University.

The Vice-Chancellor while responding to their presentations; thanked them for finding time to visit him, and assured of his commitment to partnering with them in maintaining peace and harmony in the university.

He noted that the University has maintained a mutual relationship with her host community and other strategic stakeholders, and his office always be receptive to new ideas and advice.

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Forum of former Local Government of Ebonyi state (2013-2015) making a presentation to the Vice-Chancellor
On the issue of employment, the Vice-Chancellor noted that there is a Federal Government embargo on employment but assured them of his commitment to employing qualified members of the host community when the embargo is lifted.



Prof Elom further urged the host community to continue to maintain peaceful disposition towards the University until the issue of compensation is resolved by the appropriate authorities to avoid breakdown of law and order in the University community.

Another two academic staff of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State have completed their postgraduate studies under the scholarship partnership between the University and the French Government.

Ikenna Kelvin Chima of the department of Geology/Geophysics, Faculty of Physical Science bagged a doctorate degree in Sedimentology and Stratification in University of Sorbonne, France.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom, Bursar, Mr. Kingsley Oyekezie, Provost, Medical School, Prof. Paul Ezeonu and Director, AE-FUNAI/French Centre, Prof. Nnenna Nwosu-Noruh in a group photograph with Dr. Ikenna Kelvin Chima at the VC’s Office
Lucky Nte of the department of English and Literary Studies, Faculty of Humanities, on the other hand, bagged a Masters in Linguistics/Anglophone Studies from the University of Lyon, France.



The Postgraduate Scholarship partnership which was consummated in 2016 has facilitated the travelling of 42 academic staff of the University to France for further studies in different fields. The partnership is also the first of its kind in the Nigerian University system.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom (4th R) and principal officers in a group photograph with Lucky Ntem in the VC’s office
While receiving the scholars yesterday in his office, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sunday Elom noted that the essence of the partnership is to have a critical mass of internationally-networked and bilingual academics in the University, adding that with that, the institution will be the most sought-after institution in the Gulf Guinea.



The Vice-Chancellor further praised the dedication and seriousness of the lecturers which made them to complete their studies on time. He also thanked them for coming back to the University at the end of their studies, urging them to deploy their ideas and experience to the growth and development of the University.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom in a handshake with Lucky Nte in his office
The staff were presented to the Vice-Chancellor by the Director, AE-FUNAI/French Centre, Prof. Nnenna Nwosu-Nworuh.

The Faculty of Agriculture, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State has organized a one-day seminar for 400 level students of the faculty geared towards exposing the students to the various career opportunities in the field of Agriculture.

The seminar was also meant to prepare the students for the mandatory 6-month Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) to ensure they make adequate use of the opportunity provided by the Scheme by highlighting the numerous career opportunities existing for graduates of Agriculture.

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Dean, Faculty of Agriculture, Dr. Jane Munonye, Head, Depart of Agriculture, Dr. Michael Olaolu and guest speaker, Mr. George Agugu in a group photograph with students after the event
Speaking at the event, an Agric Credit/Relationship Manager, First Bank Nigeria Plc, Mr. George O. Agugu gave a field experience of the numerous opportunities existing for graduates of Agriculture in various sectors of the economy, such as in International Agricultural Organizations, Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) of Government, academia and the organized private sector, adding that the field of Agriculture prepares students to be self-reliant and employers of labour on graduation.

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Mr. George O. Agugu addressing the students at the event
He enjoined the students to be focused in their studies and be proud of their field of study, noting that without agriculture there will not be food security in the country.

Speaking earlier, the Acting Dean, Faculty of Agriculture Dr. Jane O. Munonye advised the students to be serious-minded and focused in their academic activities, stating that there are many career opportunities in different areas of Agriculture which can guarantee them a better future.

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Dean, Faculty of Agriculture, Dr. Jane Munonye
While expressing appreciation for the seminar, a student leader representing the Faculty of Agriculture in the Senate, Students’ Union Government, Akude Childera Nicholas, thanked the Faculty for exposing them to the numerous career opportunities in the field of Agriculture, noting that the seminar has armed them with the needed knowledge to approach their future with confidence.

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A cross section of students at the event

AE-FUNAI STUDENT DISTRIBUTES LEARNING MATERIALS, SANITARY PADS TO SCHOOLS IN ANAMBRA, EBONYI
At a period when most people are becoming self-centered due to financial challenges confronting our nation, a 400 level student of Department of English and Literary Studies Education, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Obi Chinyere Gift has distributed learning materials/aids and sanitary pads to selected primary and secondary schools in Anambra and Ebonyi States.

Obi who is also the Vice President, National Union of Anambra State Students Worldwide and Treasurer, National Youth Council of Nigeria, Idemili South chapter, noted that her dream is to see women especially young girls prosper by fulfilling their aspirations in life.

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Obi Chyere Gift (on red) in a group photograph with some students that benefited from her sanitary pads project
She stressed that as a student leader, her major interest is to ensure that the youth get quality education, adding that in spite of the obvious challenges confronting the Nigerian education system, education remains the key to unlocking people’s potential.



Continuing, Obi observed that many youths especially boys are now treating education with levity to the extent of calling it a scam. She however advised them to be focused and determined, and not to be distracted by the prevailing craze for immediate gratification and materialism, stating that such mindset may ruin their lives in future.

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Some of the young girls displaying the pad


She further noted that she had organized a couple of seminars tagged “Give them Education”, where the importance of education was preached to primary and secondary school students in Anambra state, adding that at the events learning materials/aids were distributed to the students to encourage them.



Some of the schools that have benefited from her magnanimity include; Father Paul’s Secondary School, Awka-Etiti, Anambra State, Umunocha Community Primary School, Awka-Etiti, Anambra State, Girls’ High School, Awka-Etiti, Anambra State, Victory College, Umudunu, Awka-Etiti. Anambra State, Heritage Secondary School, Izzangbo, Ikwo, Ebonyi State and City Global Secondary School, Ndiechi, Ikwo, Ebonyi State.

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Obi Chyere Gift (on red) and a colleague in a group photograph with some students that benefited from her sanitary pads project
It is quite heartwarming that while many Nigerian youths are complaining and blaming the government for their woes, AE-FUNAI students are taking responsibilities by making positive impact on their environment; wiping away tears from the eyes of people and also using their lives as sources of inspiration to many youths in the society. This is one of the cardinal features of the University which has distinguished it from other institutions in Nigeria. The University trains solution providers and problem solvers.

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Obi Chinyere Gift in a handshake with the Head, Public Relations & Information/PRO, Elom Iyke Ubochi when she shared her story

AE-FUNAI INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY AND TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER OFFICE (IPTTO) SET FOR OPERATION, AS NOTAP EQUIPS OFFICE
The Intellectual Property and Technology Transfer Office (IPTTO) at the Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State is set for full operation, as the National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP) has installed all the relevant equipment in the Office.

The establishment of IPTTO in the institution is one of the major benefits of the partnership the University consummated with NOTAP in 2017. With it, researchers, inventors and other creative minds within the Southeast geopolitical zone of the country can easily file for patency of their inventions and findings at the IPTTO located in the university rather than travelling to the NOTAP headquarters in Abuja.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom (C) in a group photograph with the NOTAP team led by Mrs. Patience Ogechi Ohiri (1st L)) and Mr. Uwem Sunday Thompson


Recall also that in 2018, NOTAP collaborated with PZ Cussons to upgrade the Chemical Engineering laboratory in the University to the tune of N30m worth of top-notch and world-class science equipment. This has made the University a destination for researchers in the field of science.



Speaking during a courtesy call on the Vice-Chancellor, the NOTAP team led by Mrs. Patience Ogechi Ohiri, noted that their visit was to install and take inventory of the equipment and furniture that were supplied for the eventual take-off of the Intellectual Property and Technology Transfer Office in the University.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom (C) and principal officers in a group photograph with the NOTAP team led by Mrs. Patience Ogechi Ohiri
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sunday Elom, while welcoming the NOTAP team said ‘’we value the relationship very highly and we are ready to support the project to make it stand’’, adding “as a new university we need assistance from organizations such as NOTAP”.



He further assured that the necessary actions would be taken to ensure that the Office becomes operational, stating that the University has become a reference centre in research because of the establishment of Office in its domain.

Continuing, the Vice-Chancellor further stressed the importance of retraining the University staff that are managing and handling the science equipment at the Chemical Engineering laboratory, and called on NOTAP to collaborate with the institution in retraining them.

The Vice-Chancellor, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Prof. Sunday Elom has vowed to complete the perimeter fencing of the University by 2022.

The Vice-Chancellor stated this today during an inspection tour of ongoing perimeter fencing works in the University.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom (2nd L), Director, DPPWS, Dr. A. I. Ezeocha, PA to VC, Mr. Collins Umoke and Head, Public Relations & Information, Elom Iyke Ubochi during the inspection tour


The fencing project which started during the immediate past administration of the University had about 80% of the land already fenced.



However, on assumption office, Prof. Elom had promised to sustain, consolidate, and expand on the various projects and programmmes he met on ground. Thus, on April 2021, he sanctioned the continuation of the fencing project.

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A section of the ongoing perimeter fencing
According to Prof. Elom, the completion of the project will ensure security of lives and property on campus, noting that it will also stop the antics of land grabbers and speculators, thereby making the University safe and secure from the menace of intruders.

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Another section of the perimeter fencing


While taking the Vice-Chancellor round the project sites, the Director, Physical Planning, Works and Services, Dr. A. I. Ezeocha stated that 1.5 kilometers of fencing work have been done since April 2021 when they received the Vice-Chancellor’s directive on the project. He added however, that about 1.2 kilometers of work remain for the entire university to be fenced.



Expressing his satisfaction on the speed and quality of the project, the Vice-Chancellor vowed to complete the entire project by 2022, and thanked the AE-FUNAI Parents Forum for providing the financial resources used in discharging the project.

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Another section of ongoing fencing work


The Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State sits on 438 hectares of land, surveyed and donated to the University by the Ebonyi State Government.

300 level students of Mass Communication, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, have presented their annual newspaper to the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Sunday Elom.

Presenting the newspaper named “Iconic” to the Vice-Chancellor in his office, the Class Representative of the students, David Chukwuemeka Nwanga, noted that the newspaper is a production of the 300 level students of the University.

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David Chukwuemeka Nwanga and Uchenna Nnachi on behalf of the 300 level students presenting the Iconic newspaper to the VC, Prof. Sunday Elom (c)
He explained that the production of the newspaper is meant to enhance the efficiency and professionalism of the students, adding that the project also helps in honing the print journalistic skills of the students.



Nwanga further stated that in 3rd year, students of Mass Communication of the University are expected to produce a newspaper in the first semester and a magazine in the 2nd semester as part of their academic work, stressing that the students usually contribute both financially and intellectually to make the projects a reality.

While receiving the newspaper, the Vice-Chancellor commended the students for their resourcefulness and professionalism, noting that the successful production of the newspaper shows that the University is on the right track of grooming students who would not only be employable but also employers of labour on graduation.

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David Chukwuemeka Nwanga presenting the newspaper to the Head, Public Relations & Information and the University PRO, Elom Iyke Ubochi (2nd L)while a staff of the PR Unit, Mrs. Juliet Chigbata and a student, Uchenna Nnachi look on
Continuing, the Vice-Chancellor maintained that the University is interested in equipping students with the right skills-sets that will stand them out on graduation, and equally used the opportunity to commend the staff of the Department of Mass Communication for ensuring that students are exposed to the practical aspects of their field.



Prof. Elom further pledged to support the students with Fifty Thousand Naira (N50, 000).

The students had earlier presented the Iconic newspaper to the Head, Public Relations & Information and the University PRO, Elom Iyke Ubochi.

Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State has been ranked 32 out 167 universities in Nigeria on the quality of scientists.

In the 2021 university ranking released by a leading global ranking body based in Turkey, AD Scientific Index, the University emerged 32, topping many older universities in Nigeria.

According to the global body, the ranking “reveals the competency of institutions to attract prized scientists and the ability of institutions to encourage advances and retain scientists.”
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The ranking which covered private, state and federal universities in Nigeria also revealed that AE-FUNAI emerged 2nd out of all the universities established in Nigeria from 2011 and beyond.

Available records show that the University has also being doing well in the yearly and biannual ranking of other global bodies such as Webometrics.

In the past 10 years of its establishment, AE-FUNAI has been making steady progress in the quality of its academic activities which has boosted her national and global visibility. Due to the quality of her academic activities, the University is presently regarded as one of the most serious public universities in Nigeria.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom
In order to ensure continuous progress in the area of quality of academic programmes and other indices of global ranking, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sunday Elom has vowed to put in place all the necessary modalities and facilities that are needed to make the University attain excellence.

Even as Campus-Green Initiative Gathers Momentum
Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, is to plant 100, 000 fast-growing trees, as a source of internally-generated revenue through timber and also to combat climate change in the institution.

This is one of the key performance objectives of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sunday Elom as contained in his vision for the University.

He said: “Efforts will be made to create reserve areas within the University land for aggressive planting of about one hundred fast-growing timber trees by 2022”, adding “These trees will yield billions of naira in 20 years.”

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Campus-Green Initiative beautifying the University environment
Meanwhile, the Campus-Green Initiative of the University, which has the goal of building a campus-in-a-garden, thus making the University one of the most beautiful and eco-friendly campuses in Nigeria is gathering momentum.



The Green Initiative which started in 2016 has led to aggressive yearly tree planting campaigns, with over 33, 000 ornamental and fruit trees already planted in the University. As the trees continue to grow and mature, the University is gradually wearing a new look, becoming a beautiful and environmental-friendly campus, with staff and students praising the University management for the efforts.

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A walkway with beautiful trees
The Vice-Chancellor has stressed the importance of the greening project of the University, and has also assured of his continued support to the initiative to ensure that its goals and objectives are achieved. In view of this, he has approved the elevation of the status of the Campus-Green Initiative to a full Directorate.

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Eco-friendly campus environment
To underscore the importance of tree planting in achieving the goals of the Greening Project, the University on 17th June, 2021, joined the world to celebrate the international day against desertification and drought, where the Directorate of Campus-Green Initiative kick-started the 2021 tree planting campaign in the University. During the event, staff and students of various Faculties and academic and administrative departments planted a good number of trees on campus.

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Trees springing up at different parts of the campus courtesy of the Campus-Green Initiative

The Vice-Chancellor of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Prof. Sunday Elom, has commended two students of the University, Harmonypeace Sylvester Uchendu and Chidinma Miracle Solomon for their exemplary qualities, as a girl-child advocate and a visual artist respectively.

The Vice-Chancellor made the commendation yesterday, when he met with the two students, who are from the Department of English and Literary Studies Education and Department of Fine and Applied Arts, in his office.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom with Harmonypeace Sylvester Uchendu (R) and Chidinma Miracle Solomon (L) at his office
Speaking on the humanitarian efforts of Miss Sylvester Uchendu which has led her to many primary and secondary schools in the University’s host community, where he shared sanitary pads and toiletries to young girls, the Vice-Chancellor said ‘’I read about your good works in one of the posts on the school website and was marvelled at your kind gestures towards mankind’’, adding “It is very rare to come by these days for someone to use her personal money for such kind gestures”.



Continuing, the Vice-Chancellor who was visibly excited by the student’s rare benevolence to fellow girls, promised that the University will support her as she champions the rights and welfare of the girl-child in the society.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom welcoming Miss Harmonypeace Sylvester Uchendu to his office
Earlier, Miss Uchendu had informed the Vice-Chancellor, that her difficult childhood laid the platform for what she is doing in the area of girl-child advocacy, noting that it was not smooth while growing up.



‘’I almost dropped out of school due to lack of fund. My parents were not able to cater for our needs and that made me to use pieces of cloth as pad during my menstrual periods.

“I didn’t give up but struggled to further my education. I had to teach for 3 years after secondary school to be able to raise money to come to AE-FUNAI. So I made a vow that any little money at my disposal will be channelled to distributing toiletries and pads to less privileged girls in the society”, she submitted.

She stressed that fighting for the rights of the girl-child is her top priority, observing that females were not being treated fairly in the society.

Miss Sylvester Uchendu’s activities as a girl-child rights activist had gone viral after sharing her story with the Public Relations and Information Unit of the University. Her touching and exemplary story has been published online by many print and electronic media houses as well as social media platforms.

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Miss Chidinma Miracle Solomon presenting a portrait made from fabric to the VC, Prof. Sunday Elom during the meeting
In the same vein, Miss Solomon, whose core competence is in Fabric Collage Art was not left out in the Vice-Chancellor’s largesse.



While presenting a portrait of the Vice-Chancellor to him during the meeting, Prof. Elom also promised that the University will support her career development as a visual artist, and urged her not to rest on her oars until she achieves her dream.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom (3 L) in a group photograph with the University PRO, Elom Iyke Ubochi, Chidinma Miracle Solomon, Harmonypeace Sylvester Uchendu, Director of Information, Izuchukwu, and Mrs. Juliet Chigbata, after the meeting.

A 300 level student of English and Literary Studies Education, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, and a girl-child advocate, Miss Harmonypeace Sylvester Uchedu, has distributed toiletries and sanitary pads to primary and secondary school students in Ikwo Local Government Area of the State.

The female rights advocate said her desire in life is to put smiles on the face of the girl-child by using the resources at her disposal to fight for their rights as well as cater for some of their peculiar needs.

“I live for the purpose of the girl-child”, She said.

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Harmonypeace Sylvester Uchendu (1st L) with some AE-FUNAI female students after distributing sanitary pads to them
Speaking on her advocacy which has made her popular within and around the University community, Miss Sylvester Uchendu noted that the difficulties she faced while growing up inspired her to embark on humanitarian activities, adding that she doesn’t want any girl to go through what she experienced as a child.



“Growing up was not very funny, it was a hard one. I had to use pieces of cloth as sanitary pad during my monthly menstrual period because sanitary pad was costly and my parents could not afford to buy it for me.

‘’I remember what I passed through especially during one of my heavy flows, the cloth I used as pad could not absorb the blood. It was then that I vowed to use any opportunity I have for the improvement of the wellbeing of the girl-child’’.

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Harmonypeace Sylvester Uchendu (1st R) and her crew in a group photograph with some of the secondary school students
Narrating how the idea of distributing toiletries and sanitary pads to students started, she recalled how she visited the female hostels of the University, and found out that some of the girls were unable to buy sanitary pads and toiletries, so she decided to start distributing sanitary pads and toiletries to them and later extended it to some primary and secondary schools within Ikwo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.

Continuing, she noted that she has established a non-profit organization called “Touch Foundation” through which she advocates for the rights of women especially the girl-child, noting however that her idea of feminism is advocating for equal opportunities for women.

‘’When I see what people go through especially girls, it gives me sleepless nights as they are the most vulnerable in the society’’, she said.

She added that in Igbo land, females were always looked down on as if they are of little or no importance to the society, advising that women should be given equal opportunity to prove their worth, and enjoined women to stand up to their rights instead of complaining and resigning to fate.

On her plans after graduation, Miss Sylvester Uchendu, affirmed that she will focus on her Foundation, where she hopes to fight for the rights of the downtrodden, including young females and males alike, as according to her, “boys are also being molested in the society”.



Explaining further, she noted that she also aspires to become a Professor of English language and a certified educationist in order to work with other people and organizations to provide guidance to young people, and prayed for availability of funds to carry out her dreams.

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Harmonypeace sylvester Uchendu (1st L) sharing her story with the University PRO, Elom Iyke Ubochi and a PR staff, Mrs. Juliet Chigbata in his office
The young female rights activist who is also a public speaker, trainer, writer and counsellor, admonished young people to be focused on their dreams and aspirations, noting that without determination and focus they will not be able achieve their desires in life. She also encouraged young people to know what they want in life and purse it with resilience even if the economy is not favourable enough.

Concluding, Miss Sylvester Uchendu appreciated the Management of the University for their efforts in making the institution a conducive environment for learning, with zero tolerance to exam malpractice, cultism, sexual harassment and other social vices, adding that AE-FUNAI is one of the best universities that any parent could wish their child to be, even as she also advised students to work hard and be serious-minded if they intend to succeed in the University.

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Harmonypeace Sylvester Uchendu
“It is one of the best Universities in Nigeria. It is only in AE-FUNAI that students have to put in their best to succeed. The University brings the best in you”, she said.



The schools that have benefited from the humanitarian gestures of Miss Sylvester Uchendu include Urban Primary and Secondary School, Independence Layout Primary School, Life Heritage International School, Anglican Primary School and Munator Central School, all in Ikwo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.

The Vice-Chancellor, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Prof. Sunday Elom has lauded the establishment of the Anti Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU) in Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) by the Independent and Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), promising to ensure transparency and accountability in the discharge of all his official responsibilities as Vice-Chancellor of the University.

The Vice-Chancellor made this known yesterday when members of the Anti Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU) of the University briefed him on the functions and activities of the Unit since they were inaugurated on 17th March, 2021 by the ICPC.

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Chairman, ACTU, AE-FUNAI, Mr. Friday U. Onwumere handing over the operational manual of the Unit to the VC, Prof. Sunday Elom (R)
He further urged the Unit to embark on public enlightenment campaign to sensitize the University community on their functions and activities, charging them to also ensure that all staff and students discharge their official activities without infringing on any of the anti-corruption laws, in order not to smear the image of the institution.

He also assured them of his support to ensure they discharge their duties without fear or favour, adding that the Unit is critical to the success of the University.

Earlier while briefing the Vice-Chancellor on their activities, the Chairman of the Unit, Mr. Friday U. Onwumere noted that they have started working and had already carried out a system study to determine the strengths and weaknesses of the University in relation to the functions of the Unit.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom (7th L) and some Principal Officers in a group photograph with members of ACTU led by their Chairman, Mr. Friday U. Onwumere
“We have taken some actions which we believe might not have the force of law except the Unit meets with you and presents the document from ICPC to you, so that whatever decision or action we take, you will be aware of it”, adding “the content of the document will help the Management and the unit in rendering good service”.



Mr. Onwumere also noted that their functions as contained in their operational document are captured in Sections 7 and 70 of the ICPC Act.

He maintained that ACTU is charged with the responsibilities of carrying out all the functions of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) in the institution except the prosecution of offenders.

‘’We are required to organise and sensitize staff on the issues of corruption and carry out preliminary investigation of reported cases of corruption’’, he said.

The Anti Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU) was inaugurated in AE-FUNAI on March 17, 2021, by the Chairman of Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Professor Bolaji Owasonye. He was represented at the event by a Commissioner in the ICPC Enugu Zonal Office, Barr. Amedu Sule.

ACTU is an initiative of the ICPC, approved by the Federal Government to serve as in-house mechanism for corruption prevention in ministries, departments and agencies of government in Nigeria.

The Vice-Chancellor, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Prof. Sunday Elom has assured staff that everyone will be given a sense of belonging in the University irrespective of their ethnic and religious group.

The Vice-Chancellor made this known yesterday when the Forum for Unity and Progress (AUP), an umbrella body of staff of the University who are not from the Igbo ethnic group, paid him a courtesy call.

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President, FUP, Mr. Williams Osatuyi presenting a congratulatory card to the VC, Prof. Elom during their visit yesterday
“Everyone is important in this system. Everybody has a role to play and every staff will be given a sense of belonging in the University irrespective of their ethnic or religious group”, the Vice-Chancellor said.



He also assured the staff that under his watch no one will be discriminated against because of his ethnicity or religion, adding that he will work together with everybody for the progress of the University.

“We will work together for the unity and progress of AE-FUNAI. We will continue to preach and practice one Nigeria in this university

“The University is for all Nigerians including non-Nigerians, because we still have students from neighboring countries like Cameroun and Ghana studying here. Let me assure you, there will not be any attempt to marginalize any group”, he concluded.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom and principal officers in a group photograph with members of FUP led by their President, Mr. William Osatuyi during their courtesy call on the VC yesterday


Earlier in his opening remarks, the President of the Forum for Unity and Progress, Mr. William Osatuyi, noted that it was the culture of the association to visit the Vice-Chancellors of the University to pledge their support and loyalty, adding that the visit was to congratulate Prof. Elom on his emergence as the 3rd Vice-Chancellor of the University.



“We are part of this administration and we pledge our support and loyalty to your administration”, he said.

Continuing, he added that the Forum was established during the tenure of the pioneer Vice-Chancellor of the University, late Prof. Oye Ibidapo-Obe, explaining that the essence was to work together in unity for the progress of the institution where they are working.

The immediate host community of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, has pledged to support the administration of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sunday Elom, to ensure peaceful coexistence in the University community which is vital for the continuous growth and development of the institution.

The people, comprising indigenes of four villages that make up the immediate host community of the University– Izzangbo, Ohankwu, Enyimchukwu and Onyikwa, gave their support yesterday, when they paid a courtesy call on Prof. Elom to congratulate him on his assumption of office as the 3rd Vice-Chancellor of the University.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom and principal Officers in a group photograph with representatives of the University’s immediate host community during their courtesy call to the VC yesterday
Speaking through the President of Association of Indigenes of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Host Community, Engr. Hezekiah Odum, the people noted that the appointment of Prof. Elom was an answered prayer, and expressed their happiness on how they were received and given the rare opportunity to air their views concerning their plights since the establishment of the University in their community.



He noted that the association which was established in 2017 is composed of the four villages that were mostly affected by the acquisition of the land where the University is situated, and congratulated the Vice-Chancellor on his well-deserved appointment.

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President of Association of Indigenes of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Host Community, Engr. Hezekiah Odum handing over their address to the VC, Prof. Sunday Elom durin their speech
Engr. Odum further noted that after waiting for the Ebonyi State government for many years to compensate the affected homes/families but got nothing other than neglect and injustice, they decided to unite to confront their challenges.



He used the opportunity to plead with the University Management to deal with them directly, instead of 3rd parties, as most of the benefits like employment and admission opportunities that should come to them were being diverted to people from other parts of Ikwo Local Government Area who were not directly affected by the acquisition of their land.

Also speaking during the visit, Chief Mike Mbam, Dr. Agabus Nwuzor, Deacon John Odum and Greatness Mbam Agu, all pledged the support of the indigenes to the Vice-Chancellor, assuring him of peaceful coexistence between the University and the villagers even as they also prayed for the success of his administration as he strives to take the University to greater heights.

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Chief Mike Mbam breaking the kola nut during the courtesy call
The Vice-Chancellor while responding to their presentations; thanked them for finding time to visit him, and assured them of his commitment to their welfare.



He noted that the University has had a longstanding cordial relationship with her host community, and he intends to ensure that there is enduring peace between the two parties during his tenure.

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Dr. Agabus Nwuzor speaking at the event
“We accept your address. We will look into it objectively to ensure enduring peace in the University community”, he said.



On the issue of employment, the Vice-Chancellor noted that there is a Federal Government embargo on employment, adding that even those who were employed before he assumed office have not been receiving salaries.

He however, pledged to do the needful when the embargo is lifted, even as he promised to always communicate and deal with them directly. On that premise, the Vice-Chancellor released his direct telephone number to the President of their association for direct communication.

In response to the decision of the University Governing Council at its 30th Regular meeting held on Wednesday, 30th June, 2021, for the constitution of a high-powered Committee on AE-FUNAI 10-year Development Plan, otherwise known as ‘’AE-FUNAI Vision 2031’’, the Vice-Chancellor, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Professor Sunday Elom, has constituted a 13-member Committee.

While inaugurating the Committee yesterday, the Vice-Chancellor noted that the genesis of the Committee was a result of the Governing Council’s directive that he should constitute a high-level Committee to propose a ten-year development plan for the university, even though the Council was also aware that he had already set-up a 5 year Strategic Plan Committee. He said the Council in its wisdom decided that the Strategic Plan Committee should be fused into a new Committee with a plan period of 10 years, to be called ‘’AE-FUNAI VISION 2031’’.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom and principal officers in a group photograph with members of the Committee after their inauguration yesterday
He stated that Management has selected the best people to do the work, adding that the selection of members was based on personal merit and antecedent, pleading with the members to apply all the seriousness that is required to deliver on the assignment as Council is relying on them to deliver on their mandates and on time.



Prof. Elom further explained that the vision document would be launched during the forthcoming convocation ceremony of the University, noting that the President and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, HE President Muhammadu Buhari would be invited to the occasion which would be organized in conjunction with the late Dr. Alex Ekwueme’s family.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom speaking during the inauguration ceremony
Continuing, the Vice-chancellor urged members of the Committee to take the task seriously in order to come up with a draft document before the next meeting of the Council which is scheduled to hold in late August, 2021, adding that Council is also in a hurry to have the assignment completed on time. He also enjoined them to adhere to their terms of reference as contained in their letters of appointment.



According to the memo signed by the Registrar, the terms of reference of the Committee were to: Prepare a 10-year development plant for the University, appraise where we are now, formulate where we want to be in the next 10 years, formulate how we can get there, merge these with those of Strategic Plan Committee and make recommendations to the Management.

While speaking before the inauguration of the Committee, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the University, Emeritus Prof. Nimi Briggs, who joined the meeting through Zoom, appreciated the Vice-Chancellor for acting speedily on the Council’s decision, noting that the Committee is to brainstorm and create ideas that will lift the University from where it is now to where it wants to be in the next ten years.

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Chairman of the Committtee, Prof. Dennis Akoh speaking at the inauguration


Continuing, Prof. Briggs maintained that Council views the work of the Committee seriously, and encouraged members to live up to expectation.



‘’ I want to tell you that this project is very important to Council’’, he said.

Responding, the chairman of the Committee, Prof. Dennis Akoh, thanked the Vice-Chancellor for constituting the Committee and assured the Management that they will not fail in the assignment, attributing his confidence on the calibre and antecedents of people in the Committee.

‘’The members are true representatives of every aspects of our university’s life and I am sure we will turnout a document that will be a true representative of the purpose the Committee was set up”, he concluded.

Members of the Committee are: Prof. Dennis Akoh (Chairman),Prof. Chukwunonso E. C. C. Ejike, Prof. Rosemary O. Igbo, Prof. Nnnenna Nwosu, Dr. Onuora B. Nweke, Prof. Dr. Jonny Ogunji, Engr. Prof. Onuegbu O. Ugwu, Prof. Kevin N. Nwogu, Prof. Abel Ezeoha, Prof. Paul O. Ezeonu, Dr. Otu Otu Akanu, Mr. Elom Ikechukwu Ubochi, Mr. John C. Ekpe, Director, Physical Planning, Works and Services, Chairman, ASUU, Chairman, SSANU, Chairman, NAAT, Chairman, NASU and Mr. Friday U. Onwumere (Secretary).

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