₦airaland Forum

As AE-FUNAI hosts 2021 ANA International Conference
The National President, Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), Mr. Camilus Ukah has described Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, as a knowledgeable institution.

The President stated this recently during the 2021 Annual ANA/AE-FUNAI International Conference and workshop Themed, ‘’Re-imagining Belongingness in 21st Century Africa’’.

He likened Literature to carbon, noting that as carbon is an important element in the life of every living thing, so also is literature, because of its ability to enter any subject. He stressed that anyone that knows literature is knowledgeable, and described AE-FUNAI as a knowledgeable institution because it promotes literature and literary works of the Nigerian authors having consistently hosted ANA conference in the past few years.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom in a group photograph with Executive of ANA during their courtesy call to him at the VC’s conference room before the commencement of the conference
While welcoming the ANA President and his team during a courtesy call before the commencement of the conference, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sunday Elom, noted that AE-FUNAI is aspiring to become a world class University and assured the association of the continued support of his administration, promising to abide by the Memorandum of Understanding they signed with the immediate past administration of the institution.



The Vice-Chancellor further stated that the University has a conducive environment for the cross fertilization of ideas such as the conference, noting that though the it is still relatively young, yet it is one of the most serious public universities in Nigeria.

In her opening speech, the Coordinator, AE-FUNAI/ANA partnership, Prof Gloria M.T Emezue, stated that during the 2007 ANA convention, she was shocked by the poor technical quality of the works of some internationally, nationally and locally acclaimed authors, and wondered how these authors do not understand or perhaps were not acquainted with the rudiments of literary and imaginative writing.

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A cross section of participants at the 2021 ANA/AE-FUNAI International Conference
She stressed that even more disturbing was the poor number of critical works that focused on many of these emerging issues, so she had to call the attention of some elders of the Association and the Executive, on the need for the Association to do something about these emerging trends of our time.



Prof. Emezue, added that the formation of ANA by the late literary icon,Prof. Chinua Achebe and his colleagues was a necessary response to a period in Nigeria’s literary writing when the issues of the authenticity of African writing and the volume of Nigeria (Africa)’s writing were at their lowest. Thus, there was the urgent need to do something that would continually bring writers together, in order to forge some form of formidable front and provide separate identities against the fast advancing western literary corpus that threatened to swallow everything from its erstwhile colonial subjects and colonies.



She further noted that there is no doubt that the Conference and the creative workshop will provide avenues for strong synergy between the University and the general public.

Delivering the key note speech, Dr, Chika Unigwe, who addressed participants through Zoom, noted that the theme of the conference “Re-imaging Belongingness in 21st Century Africa” was necessary at this time when the nation is battling the effects of the #ENDSARS Protest, Police brutality and many other abnormalities.

She stressed that the theme of the conference was also topical because we are at a time when there is quest for identification and belongingness in Africa, adding that its aptness could also seen by the violence, protests and strikes we are witnessing in the polity, maintaining that it will further address the stereotype of being tagged an African writer which hardly gets readership outside Nigeria.

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Dr. Chika Unigwe addressing the conference via Zoom
Dr. Unigwe pointed out that the understanding and representation of the idea of African identity is being based exclusively on the notion of blackness, and countered such an idea of African identity as flawed, explaining that the conference will propound the idea of intermediary as a new modality of thinking about the importance of embracing the idea of tolerance for the differences in identity, and also see Africa as a hub for talents which is accessible to people of all races and identities.



The highlight of the event was the creativity workshop where skills of those in attendance were tested in the art of composing poetry, drama and prose fiction. At the end, a 400 level student of Political Science of the University, Kalu Abraham Justice won the Prose Fiction category; a 100 level Law student of the University, Nwele Stanley Chiemerie was the winner of Poetry category while a 400 level student of Linguistics, also of the University, Nwigbo Sally Ebube won the drama category. The Winners were awarded prizes for their sterling performances.

The Directorate of Students’ Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES), Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu- Alike, Ebonyi State, has held an orientation programme for the students of the institution who will be embarking on the mandatory 6-months industrial training in 2021.

While declaring the event open, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sunda Elom stated that Student’s Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) is a veritable tool in the technological acquisition process as it creates additional exposure to students which in itself is very important in knowledge transfer.

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Cross section of participating students at the event
He emphasized that the university has been making sustainable efforts to improve on SIWES activities, noting that yearly, staff of the directorate are given opportunities to attend ITF organized workshops and training.



The Vice-Chancellor who was represented at the event by the Dean, Faculty of Physical Sciences, Prof. Omaka N. Omaka averred that the idea behind SIWES is to complement deficiencies experienced by students in the practical component of their programmes especially in practically-oriented ones, and stressed the importance of prompt mobilization of students to their places of industrial training (IT) in line with the course of their study.

He equally advised students to ensure they secure placement in organizations that are relevant to the field of their study, urging them to be good ambassadors of the University.

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Prof. Omaka N. Omaka delivering the VC’s address at the event
Delivering the Keynote speech, the Industrial Training Fund, Area Manager, Abakaliki Area office, Mrs. Rose Adaeze Ifeokwu, thanked the Vice-chancellor for recognizing the importance of human capital development as a tool for national development.



She noted that last year, the University given award by ITF as the best in human capital development in Ebonyi state, and commended the University Management for organizing the orientation exercise for students.

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Mrs. Chidebe Emeka speaking at the event
The ITF Area Manager who was represented by Mrs. Chidebe Emeka, further stated that the ideals of the scheme is highly commendable, pointing out that the ITF offers a vast array of human resource development services which include research and development, consultancy services, monitoring and evaluation, standardization and certificate of training.



She emphasized that Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme,( SIWES) is an avenue where the ITF, tertiary institutions and industries interface with the students to educate them on the practical aspects of their disciplines.

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Acting Dr. SIWES, Dr. A. I. Adeolu addressing the participants
Earlier while delivering his opening remarks, the Acting Director, Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) Dr Adewale .I. Adeolu, observed that the purpose of organizing the programme was to advise the students on their responsibilities during the period of industrial training, urging them not to jump from one organization to another during the period.



He equally advised students to represent the University very well by being focused and serious in their work, dressing appropriately and show general good behavior as well as discharge their duties effectively in the organizations they are attached to.

The Vice-Chancellor of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Prof. Sunday Elom has urged the newly-admitted students of the institution to imbibe the virtues of hard work and dedication in their academic activities as it is necessary for success.

The Vice-Chancellor led the charge yesterday during the 9th matriculation ceremony of the University where 4, 715 freshmen swore oath of allegiance to abide by the ideals, rules and regulations of the University.

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“To our freshmen who are matriculating today, I admonish you not to shy away from hard work, for it is necessary for your success. You will definitely encounter some challenges in your road to success, but stay focused and on course.

“We will not condone any form of cultism, examination malpractice, drug abuse, campus prostitution, sex or money-for-marks, indecent dressing and unruly behavior. You have come to the University to study; shun anything that can deter you from reaching your goals.

“This University is not a heaven for any kind of misconducts; the consequences for such acts are rustication or outright expulsion of the culprits. We therefore admonish our students to mind their studies, and beware of the so called campus life attractions because we have zero tolerance for all forms of social vices.”

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Dean, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Prof. Friday Nwalo, reading the Vice-Chancellor’s address in his faculty at the 8th Matriculation Ceremony of the University


Continuing, the Vice-Chancellor also charged the freshmen to report any form of intimidation, extortion and sexual harassment by staff to him, noting that he had released his phone number to other students during his interaction with them before the admission of the freshmen.



“I also charge all students to report any form of sexual abuse, intimidation and extortion from staff. I have released my phone number to students during my interaction with them before your admission. I advise you to collect my phone number from them. Send text messages and WhatsApp chats to me on any issue. I assure you of prompt response and action”, the Vice-Chancellor stated.

He equally stated: “This University is not just interested in producing first-class materials that would rule their world after graduation but also men and women of honour and character that will be a light to their generation.

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Students cutting the Matriculation cake at the Faculty of Biological Sciences


“Evidence abound that our students are actually acquiring the right knowledge from the University, as being delivered by our experienced, committed, competent and passionate members of the academia.



“And to ensure that the University attracts and retains the right quality and caliber of staff we desire, the University is committed to building the capacity of its workforce where they are exposed to latest methodologies in teaching and research, and administration through conferences, seminars, workshops and other types of training.”

Speaking further the Vice-Chancellor noted that the University was not oblivious of the challenges students may be facing on campus, stressing that Management is working assiduously to arrest the situation in order to provide a conducive environment for learning

“Management remains committed to students’ welfare and would continue to improve the conditions in the hostels and the entire campus. We are putting things in place to make sure your stay on campus is peaceful, comfortable and worthwhile.

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Students’ procession during the 9th matriculation ceremony


“Our long term plan is to have at least 60% of the students’ population living on campus. Plans are also on the way to construct more faculty buildings, lecture halls and theaters and staff offices to enhance teaching and learning.

“The University is also working with security agencies to ensure that our campus remains safe and secure for academic activities. In fact, on Tuesday, 8th June, 2021, I constituted a high-powered security committee consisting of staff, students and representatives of security agencies and the host community to deal with security issues within and around our campus. These measures were to ensure the safety of our staff and students.

“The University is also partnering with Zenith Bank for the commencement of Agency banking to provide banking facilities to staff and students on campus”, he stated.

The Vice-Chancellor equally admonished the freshmen to avail themselves of all the facilities provided by the University, adding that the University is on the right track to becoming a world class institution, and a reputable Centre of learning and research.

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Another cross section of students on procession during the Matriculation ceremony
“AE-FUNAI is on the right track in its drive to becoming a world-class university and a vibrant centre of learning and research because excellence, integrity and entrepreneurship are our core values.



“We also emphasize computer literacy, for all staff and students at all levels, because in the present information age, no individual can maximize his/her full potential without ICT. We have well-equipped ICT Centre and ICT-driven University library with the most current books and journals in different fields and disciplines.


“Our students can also source and access their lecture materials, e-books and e-journals from the University repository- AE-FUNAI Research Archive (FURA) on the University website.

Concluding the Vice-Chancellor assured the students of all the necessary support, as long as they remained law abiding and dedicated to their studies.

The AE-FUNAI 9th matriculation ceremony was for the 2020/2021 academic session, and it was decentralized and held in the 11 faculties of the University including the College of Medicine.

The first set of students of the MBBS Pogramme, College of Medicine, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State that scaled through the 2nd MB examination is set to commence their clinical training at the Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki in a month’s time.

This was made known yesterday by the Provost, College of Medicine, Prof. Paul Ezeonu during an on-the-spot assessment of infrastructural facilities at the teaching hospital by the Governing Council of the University, to ascertain the preparedness of the hospital in welcoming the medical students for their clinical training.

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Group photograph of members of the University Governing Council led by the Pro-Chancellor/Chairman, Emeritus Prof. Nimi Briggs, VC, Prof. Sunday Elom and others, and Management of AE-FUTHA, led by the CMD, Dr. Onwe Ogah during the facility tour yesterday


The Chief Medical Director of the hospital, Dr. Emeka Onwe Ogah led the Pro-Chancellor/Chairman, AE-FUNAI Governing Council, Emeritus Prof. Nimi Briggs and other members to the site where the medical students’ hostel will be constructed and other infrastructural facilities already put in place for the clinical training of the students. Some of the facilities that were visited include a 240 capacity lecture hall, library block and an auditorium. More so, a 65-room hostel opposite the teaching hospital has also been secured by the University for the temporary accommodation of the medical students until the completion of their main hostel to be situated inside the hospital.

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CMD, AE-FUTHA, Dr. Emeka Onwe Ogah leading members of the AE-FUNAI Governing Council that include the Pro-chancellor/Chairman, Emeritus Prof. Nimi Briggs, VC, Prof. Sunday Elom and others to the various infrastructural facilities for the clinical training of the MBS students
Speaking during the facility tour, Dr. Ogah noted that the hospital was ready to support the smooth take-off of clinical training of the MBBS students, adding that since the Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the hospital and the University, the hospital has been working assiduously to ensure a seamless relationship between the two institutions.



He further stressed the preparedness of the hospital for the commencement of the programme, explaining that the hospital is well-equipped for the training of medical students as it has over 200 consultants and 600 bed spaces.

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Inside view of the 240 capacity lecture hall


While responding, the Pro-Chancellor/Chairman, Governing Council of the University, Emeritus Prof. Briggs highlighted the importance of medical school in the society, and thanked the management of the teaching hospital for their prompt response.

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Inside view of the auditorium


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Library block

A talented 300 level student of Fine and Applied Arts, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Miss Chidinma Miracle Solomon, said her inspiration as a visual artist with core competence in Fabrics Collage Art is drawn from the environment.

The budding visual artist made this known today as she narrated her journey to the Department of Fine and Applied Arts of the University, where she has spent three challenging and interesting years.

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Chidinma Solomon displaying one of her works
Speaking to the University Public Relations Officer, Elom Iyke Ubochi at his office, Miss Solomon noted that her journey into Visual Art started in Basic 5 when her mother, Mrs. Onyeka Solomon noticed her extraordinary talents in the use of colours, pencils and fabrics to produce images, and encouraged and supported her to live her dreams. She added that apart from her mother, love for colours and beauty of the African print materials have also played a vital role in her choice of profession.

She maintained that her choice of Visual Art especially Fabric Collage Art was to stand out from the crowd by doing something different from what many other people are doing, and thereby carve a niche for herself in the arts industry.

Continuing, she stated that Fabrics Collage Art involves the use of pieces of African print materials to produce images, adding that though it is very expensive in comparison to other genres of Arts, she delved into it because of her penchant for excellence, professionalism and distinction.

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Speaking further, Miss Solomon stated that before she gained admission to study Fine and Applied Arts in the University, she had had some training in the field of Fabrics Collage Art at the St. Martdom Art Gallery, Lagos, where her talent was first honed.

The gifted artist who is making waves because of her art works also lamented that art is not really valued in Nigeria as it is done in the advanced nations of Europe and America, noting that in Nigeria people hardly pay the real value for works of art, and called on government at all levels to support the profession as artists have the capacity to enhance the image of the country in the comity of nations through their works.

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Chidinma Solomon’s art work
Miss Solomon averred that after graduation, she hoped to secure a sponsorship to enable her set up a well-equipped arts studio where she can practise as a full time Artist. She however advised young artists to be focused and keep on practising, stating that ‘’the more you practise, the better you become’’, noting also that “Rome was not built in a day”.

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Another art work by Chidinma Solomon
Concluding, she thanked the Management of the University for their relentless efforts geared towards making the University a heaven for nurturing and grooming young talents to become functional and skilled in different fields of life, while also encouraging students to be focused and committed to their studies in order to succeed in the University.

More of Chidinma’s arts works can be accessed in her social media handles: Facebook: @jachee Mimi; Instagram: @jachee_mimi and Twitter: @jachyart01

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Chidinma Solomon posing with one of her works


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University PRO, Elom Iyke Ubochi in a handshake with Miss Chidinma Solomon during her visit to the Public Relations & Information Unit, while Mrs. Juliet Chigbata and Miss Chisom Faith Eze watch with keen interest

One of the challenges facing the university community before the emergence of Prof. Sunday Elom as the 3rd Vice-Chancellor of Alex-Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State was lack of banking facility in the institution.

Due to this, staff and students had to travel over 25 kilo meters to the Ebonyi State capital, Abakaliki, to access banking facilities with its attendant loss in man-hour and other associated travelling risks.

The gap in banking activities in the University also led to the proliferation of private POS vendors within and around the campus, who took advantage of the situation and were charging exorbitant rates on students for withdrawal or sending of money.

On assumption of office on 11th February, 2021, the Vice-Chancellor took notice of the gap, so while he was addressing students during his inaugural week, he pledged to fill the void by ensuring the establishment of a bank in the University to assuage the pains students go through in accessing banking facilities.

In trying to actualize this noble objective, the Vice-Chancellor hosted officials of some banks such as First Bank and Zenith Bank respectively. It was during one of those visits that the idea of Agency Banking was born as a veritable alternative to the traditional banking facility which from all indications is not feasible at the moment in the University due to some financial reasons adduced by the banks.

In order to ensure quick actualization of the objective, the Vice-Chancellor set-up a Committee, to liaise with the Zenith bank, to work-out the modalities for the commencement of Agency banking in the University.

It was therefore a cheering news, as the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Elom, on Wednesday, 23rd July, 2021 inaugurated the AE-FUNAI Agency Bank, to be powered by Zenith Bank Plc, to ease the difficulties staff and students go through in accessing banking facilities and other financial transactions in the University.

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Newly inaugurated AE-FUNAI Agency Bank
While making his opening remarks at the event, the Chairman, Committee on Agency Banking, Prof. Abel Ezeoha, stated that the purpose of establishing the bank is to offer all banking services which include, account opening, cash deposits and withdrawals, remita payments, and many other financial transactions.



He thanked the vice-chancellor for his support in making the dream a reality and also the Management for believing in the Committee, hoping that the bank will run like a conventional one and be able to fulfill the banking needs of the University community.



Prof. Ezeoha added that the staff employed to manage the Agency bank have had many years of banking experience, noting that the purpose was to ensure professionalism in the discharge of their duties, and as such induce staff and students to patronize the bank.

Continuing, he stated that Agency banking is a World Bank initiative geared towards increasing the rate of financial inclusiveness among the under- banked, which if properly handled in the University, the idea could attract the support of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom, inaugurating the AE-FUNAI Agency Bank yesterday, while others watch with keen interest
Speaking before inaugurating the project, the Vice-Chancellor, noted that the University’s Agency Bank will take care of the banking needs of staff and students and alleviate the pains they face going to Abakaliki for banking transactions, adding that it will also help to generate revenue for the university.



He urged the Management of the bank to charge lesser than the vendors of Point of Services (POS), scattered all over the school premises, while also enjoining them to sensitize the students on the need to bank with the Agency bank.



He thanked the Committee for their hard work and dedication in making sure the idea became a reality, stressing that the University’s Micro Finance bank has not started as expected, and when the idea of the Agency banking was muted, the University Management decided to key into it.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom speaking during the inauguration while the Chairman, Committee on Agency banking, Prof. Abel Ezeoha, the University Bursar, Mr. Kingsley Oyekezie and others listen with keen interest
Also speaking at the event, the Branch Manager, Zenith bank PLC, Waterworks Road, Abakaliki, Mrs. Jacinta Uju Izuchukwu promised the unflinching support of their bank to make the University’s Agency bank a success.

Highlight of the event was opening of account by the Vice-Chancellor and other principal officers of the University to kick-start the operational service of the Agency bank.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom displaying his account booklet after opening account in the University’s Agency Bank yesterday after inaugurating the bank

Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu- Alike Ebonyi state, through the Centre for Human Resource Development (CHRD) recently exposed her teaching and non-teaching staff to a two-day workshop titled “A New Dimension to Work Ethics in the University”, geared towards boosting their productivity.

The high-impact workshop held at the Prof. Ababukar Rasheed Auditorium was also aimed at reforming the mind-sets of staff of the University to make them more serious-minded, dedicated and diligent in the discharge of their duties in order to ensure the actualization of the world class vision of the University.

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Prof. Egwu U. Egwu espousing his points at the event
Speaking at the workshop on the topic ‘’ University Lecturer, Positive Mental Attitude, Ethical Issues and the Employer and the Students Point of View’’, the Director of Entrepreneurship and Employability, Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki, Prof. Egwu U. Egwu, enjoined staff to be ethical in the discharge of their duties, adding that it involves being positive, doing the right things always, and not being reminded on what to do or supervised before one discharges their responsibilities.

Prof. Egwu further stressed the importance of lecturers cultivating cordial relationships with students, and acting as their fathers. He also emphasized that lecturers should exhibit positive mental attitude in discharging their functions in order to be able to groom and nurture students that will be self-confident and positive in their outlook to study and society.

Continuing, the erudite scholar noted that positive mental attitude helps one to be more ethical, more motivated and coordinated in their work and enjoined participants to exhibit good university citizenship behavior which involves going beyond the call of duty to look out for fellow staff and students who are lagging behind. He also called on lectures to help in grooming, nurturing and mentoring students as part of their learning process and thereby aid them to develop strong personal capacity that are needed for the realization and maximization of their full potential.

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Eze Eze Ubi delivering his talk at the event
Eze Eze Ubi (CNA), Chief Accountant and Project Accountant in charge of Centre for Communicable Disease, Control and Research Clinic, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital (AE-FUTHA), speaking on the topic “Accountability and Job Satisfaction as a Gateway to Institutional Development”, informed participants that accountability is a condition of being answerable or report of an assignment or activity given to you to carry out. Job satisfaction, he continued, simply means the feeling of joy or satisfaction derived from doing what you are doing. He explained that duties given to staff usually vary, as such; each staff should take full responsibility of their duties, adding that this leads to efficiency and effectiveness which transcends to institutional development.

He further noted that once a staff is accountable, job satisfaction is bound to set in, and enjoined heads of units to delegate, monitor compliance and performance for every duty given to subordinates and ensure reports are timely as these enhances accountability. He also advised that when jobs are given to staff it should be designated according to abilities and people appreciated when they perform well; pointing out that most staff that are accountable, enjoy job satisfaction.

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Cross-section of AE-FUNAI Staff at the event
In her presentation, “A Clerk Today, A Boss Tomorrow’’, Dr. Mrs. Chinyere Ndukwe, Head, Department of Public Administration, Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki, informed participants that no matter the level they find themselves, they should know they are important as such, discharge their jobs with dignity.

She explained that as a clerk, one should endeavor to be ambitious, acquire new certificates, new skills, and learn new methods of doing the old things as a pathway to becoming a boss tomorrow. She charged them to discharge their duties politely, be dependable, and have spirit of teamwork and engage in continuous learning. She also pointed out that if a staff at the junior cadre has a positive attitude to work, works diligently and obeys persons at the helm of affairs, they will enjoy tomorrow.

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Dr. Mrs. Chinyere Ndukwe speaking at the event
The training programme is a response to the objectives set out by the Vice-chancellor, Prof. Sunday Elom, during his inaugural address to staff, when he among other things noted that training and capacity building of staff will be top priority of his administration. According to him, poorly-trained staff cannot contribute to the actualization of the vision of the University, hence the need to lay emphasis on their continuous and mandatory training.

The Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu Alike, Ebonyi State, Medical Parents’ Forum, an umbrella body of all parents and guardians of students of College of Medicine of the institution has pledged to build a female hostel for medical students.

This hint was dropped yesterday when the Executive of the Medical Parents’ Forum paid the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sunday Elom a courtesy visit, to congratulate him on his emergence as the 3rd Vice-Chancellor of the University, and more importantly, to thank him for the pre-clinical accreditation of the College of Medicine by the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria and the National Universities Commission.

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L-R: AE-FUNAI Parents’ Forum, Engr. Chidi Onwe Ogah, VC, Prof. Sunday Elom, Secretary, Medical Parents’ Forum, Mrs. Patience Okoro and Chairman, Medical Parents Forum, Chief Edward Ngene in a group photograph when they visited the Vice-Chancellor recently
The AE-FUNAI Parents’ Forum is a child of necessity that was formed in 2016, to help in bridging the palpable infrastructural gaps that exist in the University. Since its inception, the Forum has helped the University in providing lecture seats, engineering equipment and facilities, perimeter fencing, water bore holes, buildings and many more. In fact, the Medical Parents’ Forum in particular, had constructed a hostel for medical students in 2019, one of the requirements for the initial accreditation of the MBBS programme by the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria. The hostel is being occupied by male students of the programme.

While speaking during the visit, the Chairman, Medical Parents’ Forum, Chief Edward Ngene, expressed gratitude to God for choosing Prof. Elom as the Vice-Chancellor of the University, adding that with him in the saddle, the University will be taken to greater heights.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom, principal Officers and Provost, College of Medicine in a group photograph with Executive of Medical Parents’ Forum led by their Chairman, Chief Edward Ngene during their visit recently


He also used the opportunity to plead with the Vice-Chancellor to allocate a parcel of land to the Forum for the construction of a hostel to accommodate female students of the Medical Programme.



Speaking earlier, the Chairman of the general AE-FUNAI Parents’ Forum, Engr. Chidi Onwe Ogah, who accompanied the Medical Parents’ Forum to the event, noted that with Prof. Elom as Vice-Chancellor, the University will witness extraordinary development in all aspects due to his wealth of experience in the university system. He also pledged the continued support of the Forum for the infrastructural development of the University.

Expressing his happiness on the decision of the Medical Parents’ Forum to construct a female hostel for medical students, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Elom, described it as a welcome development. He noted that his administration will do everything possible to support them to actualize the objective.

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Chairman, Medical Parents’ Forum, Chief Edward Ngene presenting a gift to the VC, Prof. Sunday Elom during their visit while others watch with keen interest


He also noted that the College of Medicine was a top priority of his administration, stressing that he will do everything to ensure the College became one of the best in the country.



Continuing, the Vice-Chancellor explained that the pre-clinical accreditation of College of Medicine of the University within 3 years of its establishment was a rare feat, noting that many Universities in Nigeria have such accreditation between 6 to 8 years, but the University did it in 3 years.

In a bid to build the leadership capacity of students, the Guidance and Counseling Unit, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu Alike, Ebonyi State, yesterday organized a one-day special Leadership Training for the newly-elected Students Union Government (SUG) officials and Departmental Presidents. The specific objective of the training was to equip the Students’ Union leaders with the relevant leadership skills and attributes needed in discharging their duties as leaders.

While declaring the event open, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sunday Oge Elom, represented by the Dean Students Affairs, Dr. N. A. Obasi, noted that the training came at a critical time in the University with the emergence of the new Students’ Union Government. He enjoined them to take the training seriously in order to learn and imbibe vital leadership qualities that could stand them out as students’ leaders and ambassadors of the University.

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Group photograph of Organizers and SUG officials that participated at the one day workshop n leadership
Speaking earlier, the Head, Guidance and Counseling Unit, Dr. (Mrs.) Ngozi Nwudu, while addressing the students, maintained that the essence of organizing the training was to develop a cordial relationship between the Students Union Government and other students and help the Union leaders imbibe and abide by the ethics of the University as well as teach them how to handle students within the limits of their power.

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Head, Guidance and Counseling, Dr. Ngozi Nwudu addressing participants at the event
Dr. (Mrs.) Eunice Eze, one of the resource persons, who spoke on ‘’Qualities of a Good Leader and the Impact in University Community’’, explained that to be a leader is a very big task, noting that a good leader leads by example. She further pointed out the qualities of a good leader as communication, vision, accountability, gratitude, humility, respect to others etc. Mrs. Eze encouraged the students’ leaders to be democratic in nature instead of autocratic, neglectful and permissive.







In her presentation titled, ‘’Skills Acquisition for Leadership Development”, the Head, Academic Staff Matters (ASM), Dr. (Mrs.) Gloria Okorie, represented by Mr. James Omereagbo Egba, stressed that the era has gone when students graduate from the University and job opportunities were already available for them. She therefore advised students to acquire the right skill-sets that can sustain them after university education instead of waiting endlessly for white collar jobs that are in short supply.

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Dr. (Mrs.) Eunice Eze speaking at the event, while Mr. James Omereagbo Egba and SUG President, Comrade Solomon Ikechukwu Agbo listen
The Students Union Government (SUG) President, Comr. Agbo Solomon Ikechukwu in his speech thanked the organizers of the training for bringing all the students’ leaders together for such an important training, noting that the timing of the training was apt. He assured the University Management of their commitment to running a virile Union, with effective and functional leadership at the core. He also pledged to ensure that other students were trained to acquire the right leadership ethos in order to ensure peace and progress in the University.

Due to the ongoing communal crisis between Ikwo and Izzi clans of Ebonyi State, which has increased panic within and around the University campus, the Nigerian Army has assured the Management, staff and students of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, of adequate security, as they embark on their academic activities.

This heart-warming news was made known yesterday by the newly-appointed Cantonment Commander, Nkwagu Military Cantonment, Ebonyi State, Lt .Col. A.M Sa’ad when he was received in audience by the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Sunday Elom at the Vice-Chancellor’s conference room.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom receiving a plaque from the Cantonment Commander, Nkwagu Military Cantonment, Lt. Col. A. M. Sa’ad during his visit to the University yesterday
The military officer noted that the cantonment is composed of the Engineering Corps, charged with the 2nd line support to the Nigerian Army, especially in providing construction support during war. He added that they are also responsible to the State in times of civil crisis by assisting the Nigerian Police Force to ensure peace.

Speaking further, Lt. Col. Sa’ad, assured the University of their military support by providing security within the troubled areas in order to arrest any security breach and thus guarantee the safety of staff and students of the University.

“We will not joke with the security of the University because any breach will be a national calamity”, he stated.

He also thanked the Vice-Chancellor for the warm reception and kind gestures accorded him, stating that his doors will be fully open in case of any security challenge in the University.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom and the Cantonment Commander, Lt. Col. A, M. Sa’ad in a group photograph with some members of the University Management during the courtesy call
While welcoming the Military Commander to the University, Prof. Elom thanked him for finding time to visit even without an official invitation, adding that the visit showed that he has the interests of the University community at heart.



The Vice-Chancellor also decried the level of insecurity along the road leading to the University, stressing that he had already written to the Ebonyi State Governor, Engr. David Umahi and heads of security agencies in the state such as the Police, Directorate of State Services (DSS) and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps to alert them on the security challenges facing the University.

He further noted that the University is a very young one and at such, doesn’t need these challenges, so that staff can function well, and the students can study without hitches, stressing that the University is regarded as one of the most serious Universities in Nigeria.

“We have been having security challenges because of the communal crisis between Izzi and Ikwo clans

“Due to these challenges, I have written to the Governor of Ebonyi State, Directorate of State Security (DSS), Commissioner of Police, Ebonyi State Command, Divisional Police Officer, Ikwo and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, requesting for a joint security patrol along the road leading to the University from Nkwagu”

Continuing the Vice-Chancellor said “You need to mobilize your men to be part of the joint security patrol team to ensure peace along the troubled axis”, adding “I assure you of regular communication, especially if there is any security any issue.”

The highpoint of the visit was a presentation of a plaque by the Cantonment Commander, Lt .Col Sa’ad to the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Elom.

Also sets-up Taskforce on Environment
Worried by the spate of improper dressing among staff and students,the Vice- Chancellor, Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu Alike, Ebonyi state, Professor Sunday Elom has constituted a Committee on Improper Dressing to tackle the menace in the institution.

This is coming at a time he also has set-up a Committee on Environment, to ensure environmental cleanliness and orderliness in the University campus.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom (8th L) in a group photograph with members of the Committee on Improper Dressing led by their Chairman, Prof. Gloria M. T Emezue (7th L)
While inaugurating the two Committees yesterday, the Vice-Chancellor noted that the constitution and inauguration of the Committee on Improper Dressing was informed by his Inaugural meeting with staff and students where he emphasised the need for decorum in dressing especially among staff and students of the University.



He noted that though, the University will not introduce uniforms for her students, yet, staff and students should mind the way they dress on campus and the type of dresses they wear to work and classes, adding that ‘’the way you dress is the way people will address you’’.

Speaking further, the Vice-Chancellor frowned at the flagrant display of nudity and tattered clothing in the University community, and charged the Committee to monitor the dress styles of staff and students within the campus and make sure they dress properly, as the University will no longer condone improper dressing among her staff and students henceforth. He enjoined them to give him regular report on the matter and any other thing they think will make the institution better in that regard.

Continuing, Prof. Elom urged the Taskforce on Environment to ensure harmonization of vendors within the campus and make sure they are positioned at the proper places designated for their activities, and thereby stop the ongoing indiscriminate display and sell of goods on every part of the campus by private individuals.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom (10th L) in a group photograph with members of the Committee on Environment led by their Chairman Dr. Amobi Ekwe (9th L)


“People should not be allowed to sell inside the class rooms or showcase their goods and services randomly in the university”, the Vice-Chancellor stated, adding ‘’ensure effective cleanliness and orderliness on campus, and discharge your duties without fear in order to make the environment neater and orderly’’.

While responding, the Chairman of the Committee on Improper Dressing,Prof. Gloria M.T. Emezue, appreciated the Vice-Chancellor for constituting the Committee and assured him that they would hit the ground running in order to deliver on their mandates of restoring decorum on campus in the area of staff and students’ dressing.

In the same vein, Dr. Amobi Ekwe, who chairs the Taskforce on Environment commended the Vice-Chancellor for constituting the Committee, noting that it came at a time when the focus of the whole world is on environment and climate change.

He said: “The issue of environment is weighty, mighty and something to take very serious”.

He assured the Vice-Chancellor of the Committee’s total commitment to deliver on their mandates and make the university environmental-friendly while also appealing for Management’s support to actualize their goals.

Members of the two Committees are made up of staff, students and the University internal security officials.

The Vice-chancellor, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Prof. Sunday Elom has constituted the Board of the University’s Radio Station, 104.7 FM.

The constitution of a Board is one of the conditions for issuing license to a radio station by the Nigeria Broadcasting Commission (NBC).

While inaugurating the Board yesterday, the Vice-Chancellor who was represented by Prof. Michael Onuu noted that Management constituted the Board to oversee the affairs of the university radio station, in a bid to make it functional and the number one radio station in Ebonyi state and environs.

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L-R: Dr. Charles Okwouwuu, Mrs. Kate Nwankwo, Prof. Michael Onuu (Chairman, Dr. Chris Akubiro, Mrs. Enuma Afam Icha-Ituma and Elom Iyke Ubochi in a group photograph after their inauguration
Speaking further, the Vice-Chancellor noted that the board was to among other things seek to obtain a license for the radio station and work with and guides Management to actualize the dreams of the University in the area of community radio broadcasting. He also stressed the importance of using the radio as a source of internally-generated revenue for the University, adding that though the tasks were onerous but he found it very interesting.



While on inspection tour with members of the Board to the Radio Station, the Chairman of the Board, Prof. Onuu stated that the Board has high expectations for the station, as they were prepared to ensure that it serves the University community such as students of various disciplines like Mass Communication, Theatre Arts, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Physics, who are now opportune to have a place for their industrial training at the station, and members of the public for other purposes.

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The Board having her inaugural meeting at the Secretary’s office
He expressed confidence that the Vice-chancellor having selected such a team with far-reaching experience, they will do exploits such that the University Community will be happy because of the activities of the studio.



Also speaking during the tour of facilities, Mrs. Enuma Afam Icha-Ituma appreciated the Vice-chancellor, for selecting those with practical and field knowledge in broadcasting and other relevant disciplines as Board members of the radio station, stating that the team would move the station to greater heights by making it the most listened to station in Ebonyi state.

Dr. Charles Okwuowulu while also speaking during the tour expressed gratitude to the Vice-Chancellor, for appointing a Board for the station. He stated that with the wealth of experience of members, he expects the Radio Station to be competitive in the digital space. He pledged that the Board would work together with Management of the Station to ensure that the station becomes the best.

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Some members of the Board enjoying some beats from the AE-FUNAI Radio station, 104.7 FM during the facility tour of the station
Members of the Board are Prof. Michael Onuu (Chairman), Mr. Chris Akubuiro (Station Manager), Mrs. Enuma Afam Icha-Ituma, Dr. Charles Okwuowulu, Mr. Elom Iyke Ubochi, Engr. Olaowoore P. Olabiri and Mr. Chukwuma John Ekpe while Mrs. Kate N. Nwankwo will serve as Secretary.

Due to the simmering security challenges across the country, especially in some parts of Ebonyi State, the Vice-chancellor, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu –Alike, Ebonyi State, Prof. Sunday Elom, has constituted a high-powered Security Committee to liaise with relevant stakeholders within and outside the University to ensure the safety of staff and students on campus.

Speaking while inaugurating the Committee yesterday at the Vice-Chancellor’s conference room, Prof. Elom noted that the constitution of the Committee was a response to the insecurity situation in Nigeria in general and Ebonyi State in particular especially as regards the prevailing communal conflicts between Enyigba community in Abakaliki Local Government Area and Enyibichiri community in Ikwo Local Government Area of the State, adding that the Committee was meant to ensure peace and security as well as a conducive atmosphere for teaching and learning by liaising with all strategic stakeholders.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom espousing a point during the inauguration ceremony
The Vice-Chancellor charged the Committee to go the extra mile in ensuring that all staff and students are safe on campus, reiterating that the sitting of the University at Ndufu-Alike in Ikwo local Government Area was for the good of the host community and urged them to join hands with Management to ensure peace and security within and around the campus.



He further explained that the Committee is expected to liaise with security agencies and the Chairman of Ikwo Local Government Area to ensure surveillance around the campus and its environs including private hostels; carry out a survey of students in private hostels and note their statistics; design and run a rapid response system and create a central unit for communicating security information to the University Community and also make periodic recommendations to Management. He equally advised the Committee to take the exercise seriously to ensure that there is peace and stability within and around the university.

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Chief Security Officer, Major Mgbebu N. Onwe (rtd.) speaking during the event
Speaking on behalf of the Committee, the Chief Security Officer of the University, Major Mgbebu N. Onwe (rtd.) who also is a member of the Committee, thanked the University Management for giving them the opportunity to serve, stating that they would do their best to achieve the goals of the University in the area of Security.



The Committee is made up of staff, students and representatives of security agencies and the University’s host community. The members include: Prof. Smart Otu (Chairman), Major Mgbebu N. Onwe (rtd.), Dr. Onyekachi Eni, Dr. Henry Aloh, Dr. Christiana Igberi, Mr. Cornelius Offia, Dr. N. A. Obasi, Dr. A. I. Ezeocha, Dr. Charles Okolie, Dr. Otu Otu Akanu, Mr. Chibuike Igwe, Dr. Ikpor, Dr. Kingsley Nwagu, Mr. John Ekpe, Agbo Solomon (SUG President), Ochuba Lois (student), Oshinne Ebenezer (Student), Chukwu Emmanuel (student), and representatives of the NPF, DSS, NSCDC and host community, while Comfort Ele will serve as Secretary.

In the last few days, there has been palpable fear, panic and apprehension within the University community over the safety of staff and students due to the simmering communal crisis between Izzi and Ikwo communities.
The panic was heightened last week due to a viral online message and voice note calling on staff and students of the University who are from Izzi to go home to avoid being caught up by an imminent war between the two communities.
The situation has raised some concerns about the safety of staff and students of the University, from the esteemed parents and guardians of our students, and other stakeholders.
The University Management wishes therefore, to note that staff and students of our University are safe and secure on campus, and that academic activities are going on without hitches.
The security agencies have been fully briefed on the situation at hand and they are working round the clock to ensure that the University campus remains peaceful and conducive for academic activities.
The University Management has also constituted a high-powered security committee made up of representatives of some security agencies, staff, students and members of the University host community to liaise with the appropriate authorities to ensure security within and around the campus.
The University Management wants to use this opportunity to reassure our students, their parents and guardians and other stakeholders that Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, is safe and secure, and that academic activities are going on without encumbrances.
Nevertheless, we wish to advise our staff and students to avoid travelling through the Nkwagu/Enyigba/Nwakpu road at night until normalcy is restored along that axis. They are also advised to avoid night outings and to make sure that they are in their respective hostels not later than 7pm, especially those living off campus.
The safety and security of our staff and students remains paramount to us, and the University Management is working assiduously to maintain it.
Thank you.

Elom Iyke Ubochi
Head, Public Relations & Information/PRO

The Centre for Enhancement of Teaching and Learning (CETEL), Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi state, has held a seminar geared towards building and enhancing the learning capabilities of students of the University.

The seminar which was held recently at the Prof. Ababukar Rasheed Auditorium was also meant to help students with Learning Disabilities develop and sustain effective study habit through learning surgery. The one day event was part of the mission of the Centre to promote innovative and inspiring approaches to enhance teaching and learning amongst students of the university.

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Dr. Tina Nweze speaking at the seminar
Dr. Tina Adaeze Nwaeze on behalf of Prof. James Bassey Ejue speaking on the topic, “Helping Learners with Learning Disabilities: The Role of Students”, explained that learning disabilities are learning difficulties, which are conditions that make one not to learn. She explained that psychologists and special needs education experts, see it as disorders that affect the ability to understand or use spoken or written language, do mathematical calculations, coordinate movements, and direct attention.



She also noted that learning disabilities is characterized in individuals in a number of ways such as, short attention span, poor decoding skills, poor reading fluency, slow reading rates, lack of self-monitoring reading skills, poor comprehension and/ or retention, difficulty identifying important ideas in context, extreme difficulties building ideas and image.

Dr. Nwaeze further pointed out that, medical problems, genetic factors, lack of learning readiness, home background, curriculum design, teacher factor and poor nutrition were major causes of learning difficulties. However she iterated that it is not the same as mental retardation and advised the students against stigmatization or labeling of a person with learning difficulty, give such a person unconditional acceptance/ unconditional positive regard, help them find and develop their strength through teamwork, include them in group work and play groups and show adequate empathy not sympathy.

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Ag. Director, CETEL, Dr. Rowland Uwakwe, Mr. John Onwe and a cross section of participants at the seminar
In her own presentation on Developing and Sustaining Effective Study Habit, Prof. F. E. Otta, informed participants that to study means to review materials already learned in order to ensure that it is retained, whereas study habit is when one studies repeatedly. She stated that studying involves acquisition, retention and recall of knowledge whenever it is needed.



Prof. Otta also noted that for a student to develop effective study habit, one has to read ahead, develop private timetable, revise previous days study, revise and review each weeks study, recall what was read, approach teachers for explanation on difficult areas and discuss with others for and better insight. She mentioned the SQ4R study technique as the best method of study technique. This, according to her, involves surveying, questioning, and reading, reflecting, reciting and reviewing on materials. She iterated that, sustaining effective study habit involves a good mindset, time management, doing ones assignments, proper note making/note taking and remembering effectively.

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Prof. F. E. Otta, addressing the participants at the seminar
Speaking on learning surgery, Dr. Chinwe Ogunji stated that students usually have learning styles and preferences, however, she highlighted seven notable learning styles, which according to her; include: visual, aural, verbal, physical, logical, social and solitary learning styles.

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Dr. Chinwe Ogunji speaking at the event
While making his closing remarks, the Acting Director, Centre for Enhancement of Teaching and Learning (CETEL), Dr. Rowland C. Uwakwe, thanked the guest speakers for their wonderful and informative presentations. He also expressed his appreciation to the CETEL team and students who participated in the event, and encouraged them to apply what they have learnt to improve their learning capabilities, and thus, become effective in their studies and future endeavors.

A 500 level student of the Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Comrade Chukwudi Chukwudubem Anointing, has been elected the National President of the Nigerian Universities Engineering Students’ Association (NUESA).



NUESA is the student wing of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), established to serve as a platform for developing students studying engineering in tertiary institutions with over twenty- thousand (20,000) registered students’ members across over one hundred (100) tertiary institutions, with the mandate of building phenomena engineers capable of replicating world-class cutting-edge technologies which will place our country side-by-side with developed nations.

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National President, NUESA, Comrade Chikwudi Chukwudubem Anointing
He was elected at the just concluded 4th National Technical & Exhibition Conference (NTCE) of the association which took place in Ladoke Akintola University, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, from 5th-9th April, 2021. Over 50 tertiary institutions in Nigeria attended the event.

With the election of Comrade Chukwudi as the National President, NUESA, the National Secretariat of the association would be operated from the University in the next one year.

NUESA came into being in AE-FUNAI in November 2018. The birthing of the association in the University was spearheaded by some students in the likes of Onwuegbusi Abuchi (Graduate, Elect/Elect Engineering), Chukwudi Chukwudubem Anointing (500L, Elect/Elect Engineering) and Eze Chukwuemeka Emmanuel (500L, Mechatronics Engineering) and other dedicated Engineering students, with the full support of the University Management and the Faculty of Engineering and Technology.

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AE-FUNAI Engineering students that attend the NUESA conference
The students of the Faculty of Engineering and Technology, AE-FUNAI, have participated in three NUESA national conferences. Their first NUESA conference was in University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State in October 2018 with about 40 students led by the then Acting Chapter President, Chukwudi Chukwudubem Anointing. At the event, they participated in the quiz competition and other social activities where Ubaka Faustina of the Department of Electrical/Electronic Engineering emerged as the pioneer Miss NUESA National. They were also at the 3rd conference of the association held in Nile University of Nigeria, Abuja with over sixty (60) Engineering students of the University. The students were also at the just concluded 4th National Technical & Exhibition Conference (NTCE) of the association which took place in Ladoke Akintola University, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, with twenty-six (26) students led by their President, Comrade Dauda Olatunji Monsuru.

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National President, NUESA, Comrade Chikwudi Chukwudubem Anointing (2nd R) with some AE-FUNAI students at the Conference
Speaking to the Public Relations Officer of AE-FUNAI, Elom Iyke Ubochi recently, on his plans for the next one year as the National President of NUESA, Comrade Chukwudi stated that the next national conference of the association is anticipated to hold in the University, noting that plans were already in top gear to ensure that it is a huge success. He added that over 5, 000 Engineering students across the country were expected to attend the conference, emphasizing that the event would enhance the already soaring image of the University as a serious citadel of learning in Nigeria. He also called for the support of the University Management in making his tenure memorable and fruitful.

The Vice-Chancellor of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Prof. Sunday Elom has charged the newly-admitted students to take their studies seriously if they want to have a successful academic pursuit in the University.
The Vice-Chancellor made this known recently during a 2-day orientation programme organized by the Students’ Affairs Department for freshmen for the 2020/2021 academic session.

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Cross section of students at the orientation programme
Represented by the Deputy Vice-chancellor, Academic, Prof. Dennis Akor, the Vice-Chancellor warned the students to desist from cultism, examination malpractice, and other unwholesome activities, as the University has zero-tolerance for such vices.

The Vice-Chancellor also informed the freshmen that the University is one of the few institutions that runs a stable academic calendar in the country, and advised them to be up and doing in their academic activities.
He further stressed that the University is hinged on the core values of Excellence and integrity, adding that the production of graduates with excellent academic records and sterling character is the forte of the University. He therefore encouraged them to be serious and attentive to their academic work.

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DVC (Academic), Prof. Dennis Akor who represented the VC, Prof. Sunday Elom speaking at the event
While welcoming the students who converged at the Prof. Abubakar Adamu Rasheed auditorium for the exercise, the Acting Dean, Students’ Affairs, Dr. N.A Obasi said the freshmen should consider themselves lucky for being admitted into the University considering the high number of candidates that applied for admission spaces in the University.

He also noted that the orientation programme was approved by the Vice-Chancellor to provide opportunity for the freshmen to be acquainted with the vision and mission of the University as well as her academic rules and regulations. This he said was meant to prepare the students for a successful academic journey in the institution.
The University Registrar Mrs. Odisa C. Okeke, who was represented by the Deputy Registrar, Senate Affairs, Mr. Friday Onwumere stated that the importance of the orientation programme was to help students know how to relate with both staff and their class mates, and encouraged them to remain focused so that they can graduate on time as the University has a stable academic calendar.

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Pastor Israel Ekokoiu leading the prayer session at the event
He further urged the freshmen to dress decently in order to avoid any kind of molestation or sexual harassment, and also encouraged them to ensure they complete all registration processes, including course registration in order not to lose their admission or have problem in their academic activities in the future.
The Deputy Bursar, Mr. Gabriel udume, who represented the University Bursar, Mr. Kingsley Oyekezie at the event, told the freshmen to make their payments through the appropriate channels in order to avoid being duped, urging them to ensure they pay the accurate amount as over or under payments would not be accepted. He stressed that there will be no refund of money after payment, and admonished them to always heed the directives on payments before paying.
Resources persons were also on hand to speak to the new students on diverse topics, all geared towards preparing them for a successful academic pursuit in the University. Some of them include; Director, Academic Planning, Prof. Abel Ezeoha who spoke on Academic Issues: Probation/Withdrawal/Rustication/Expulsion; University Librarian, Dr. Juliana Akidi spoke on the Use of Library; Dean, Faculty of Social Sciences, Prof. Smart Otu spoke on Security Consciousness in Challenging Times; Chief Security Officer, Major Mgbebu Onwe (Rtd.) interacted with the students on Security Matters; Mr. while Mr. Cornelius Offia took the students through the Culture of Ikwo people and the host community’s environment, while Mr. Jude Okeke lectured them on SERVICOM and Service Delivery.
Other speakers were; Mrs. Felicia Ewa and Mr. Paul Igwe who spoke on Good Moral Conduct in the University and Proper Hostel Management; Dr. Ngozi Nwudu, on the Need for Counselling in the University; and Dr. Nneka Onwumere, spoke on Suicide Among the Youths: Causes and Preventions/Sexual Harassment.
The highlight of the 2-day event was an exhortation and prayer session by Pastor Israel Ekokoiu, where he admonished the students to put God first in their lives in order to succeed in their academic activities. The man of God also prayed for the University and her Management, and staff and students.

AS VC INAUGURATES SUG EXECUTIVE, SENATE MEMBERS
The Vice-Chancellor, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Prof. Sunday Elom has said the welfare of students of the institution is his top priority.

The Vice-Chancellor made this known recently when he inaugurated the newly elected executive and Senate members of the Students’ Union Government of the University at the Vice-Chancellor’s conference room.

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SUG President, Comrade Solomon Ikechukwu Agbo and other members of the Union Executive taking oath f office at the event
Prof Sunday Elom while inaugurating the popularly elected representatives of the students led by the President, Comrade Solomon Ikechukwu Agbo noted that his administration was interested in improving the welfare of the students, by ensuring a conducive learning environment and the improvement of the teaching and learning facilities as well as in making transportation and hostel accommodation easily accessible to students.

He congratulated the winners of the election and advised them to represent the interests of the students properly, adding that they were popularly chosen by students because the election that brought them was transparent, flawless, credible, and free and fair, without hitches.

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Senate President, Comrade Wilson Umahi and other senators taking oath of office at the event
Prof. Elom further advised them to work as a team, admonishing the Executive to always work together with the Senate to avert crisis, even as he also urged the President of the Union to carry all the members of his team along in his decisions to avoid division within their rank. He also enjoined the President and his executive to always brief and liaise with the Vice-Chancellor’s office to ensure that the needs of students are met.



He also thanked the outing interim SUG executive led by Comrade Obinna Okorie for bridging the gap when the previous elected SUG executive was dissolved by the University Management due to crisis that rocked the Union.

Earlier while presenting the newly elected Student Union Executive and their senate counterpart to the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Elom, the Acting Dean Students’ Affairs, Dr. N. A Obasi noted that the election which took place on Wednesday 19th May 2021 saw the emergence of Agbo Solomon Ikechukwu as president, Chinweani Precious Ifechukwu as Vice President, ThanKgod Idam Oko as General Secretary, Agbai Esther Elesie as Assistant General Secretary, Ajah Onyekachi Sunday as Treasurer, Adeyemo Adewale Joshua as Director of welfare, Igwemmadu Gabriel .C as Director of Finance , Ibiam Victor Azikiwe, Director of Sports, Anukaenyi Peteer. C., Director Transport ,Okedi Williams, Director of Health, Ezeokoli Izuchukwu Anthony, Director of Information, and Aja Ogbonna Emmanuel as t Internal Auditor

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom and principal officers in a group photograph with the SUG Executive led by the President, Comrade Solomon Ikechukwu Agbo
The elected Senators according to the Dean include: Akude Chidera Nicholas , Agwu Chukwuemeka .E., Obi onyedikachi .A., Kalu Ifeanyi Samuel , Umahi Wilson, Akubuo Chibueze modestus , Nsobundu Ugochukwu Brayn Nwode Samuel Akachukwu Obiora Ikechukwu Joseph, Friday Nnadozie Bethel , David Ekemini Abasi Nse, Okeke Christian Chinonso, Obilor Ramon Nkemjika, Chime Ugochukwu. M., Onyeabochukwu Chukwuma kingsley, Iheanacho Somtochukwu. B. The Senate members had earlier met where they elected Umahi Wilson as the Senate President.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom and principal officers in a group photograph with the SUG Executive led by the Senate President, Comrade Wilson Umahi


The outgoing Interim SUG President, Comrade Okorie who spoke at the event extolled the Vice-Chancellor, describing him as a Student-friendly Vice-Chancellor and equally appreciated him for his commitment towards the welfare of the students, especially in making the SUG Election a success. He also congratulated the newly elected executive and advised them not to go against the constitution that guides the Union to have a successful tenure.

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L-R: Outing Interim SUG President, Comrade Obinna Okorie, New SUG President, Comrade Solomon Ikechukwu Agbo, VC, Prof. Sunday Elom and New Senate President, Comrade Wilson Umahi after the inauguration ceremony
The newly elected SUG President Comrade Agbo, in his remarks also thanked the Vice-Chancellor for ensuring the organization of a free and fair election, and for insisting that students must elect their leaders in a transparent and flawless manner. He also promised to abide by the constitution of the Union and to ensure the promotion of students’ welfare at all times.

Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State and the Nigeria Police Force have agreed to collaborate in order to enhance the security of lives and property in the University

This was made known today when the Divisional Police Officer for Ikwo Local Government Area, Ebonyi State, CSP (Dr.) Livinus Nwenyim paid a courtesy call on the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Sunday Elom.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom welcoming the Divisional Police Officer, Ikwo, CSP (Dr.) Livinus Nwenyim during the courtesy call
CSP Nwenyim, said he deemed it necessary to pay a courtesy call on Prof. Elom to congratulate him on his appointment as the 3rd Vice-Chancellor of the University, familiarize with the University Management and also work with them to ensure maximum security of lives and property on campus, noting that the present situation of the country is critical, therefore the University needs collaborative policing to ensure the safety of students.

“We need to cooperate and synergize with you to ensure the security of lives and property on campus. It is a symbiotic relationship.

“We need to be proactive in order to nip crimes and criminalities within and around the campus in the bud.”

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom and principal officers in a group photograph with the Divisional Police Officer, Ikwo, CSP (Dr.) Livinus Nwenyim and his team during the courtesy call


He also noted that his men were already on ground and working assiduously to maintain law and order in the University, nevertheless, he stressed the importance of increasing the number of police personnel on campus due to the prevailing security situation in the country.

CSP Nwenyim further appealed for the support of the University Management in repairing their damaged Hilux vehicle to enable the Force increase surveillance within and around the campus

While speaking during the courtesy call, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof Elom commended the Divisional Police Officer for finding time to visit the University, pledging to work with him to provide water-tight security on the campus.

He also assured him of the commitment of the University in providing the necessary facilities that would enhance the security of staff and students as well as property on the campus, adding that the University would assist the Force in repairing their damaged vehicle.

The Vice-Chancellor used the opportunity to also commend them for the role they played in the Students Union Election that was recently conducted without security hitches; and advised that they work closely with the University Security and Students’ Affairs departments for effective and efficient campus policing.

“It is so thoughtful of you. We are grateful for your coming. We will work with you to achieve our goal of ensuring that our students study in a peaceful environment

“Let me also assure you that the University will do everything possible to ensure that our students are safe

“We will assist you to put your vehicle in order”, the Vice-Chancellor concluded.

The Faculty of Education, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State has hosted an international Conference on Climate Change.

The international conference themed “Climate Change and Education for Sustainable Development”, which was held at the Prof. Rasheed Abubakar’s auditorium from Monday, 17th to Thursday, 20th May, 2021 brought together experts in the fields of environment and education, who converged to compare notes and proffer solutions to the numerous challenges facing the globe due to climate change.

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Group photograph of participants at the international conference on climate change and Education for Sustainable Development hosted by the Faculty of Education, Alex Ekeueme Federal University Nduf-Alike
Addressing the conference through Zoom, the former Executive Secretary, National Universities Commission, who was the keynote speaker, Prof. Peter A. Okebukola noted that climate change was responsible for the shrinking of grazing reserves, resulting in clashes between farmers and herders in the country.



He also observed that fishing territories in the gulf of Guinea has shrunk due to climate change, thereby leading to increase in illegal fishing activities in the Nigerian territory waters.

Prof. Okebukola emphasized that environmental education would help to raise awareness against the activities of the citizens that impact negatively on the environment, noting that people are largely the causative agents of climate change.

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DVC (Academic), Prof. Dennis Akoh representing the VC speaking at the event
Earlier while declaring the conference open, the Vice-chancellor, Prof. Sunday Elom, said the University established a Center for Climate change and Development with the objective of generating high quality research as a response to global warming, adding that over 33,000 thousands trees have been planted in furtherance of the climate smartness of the University. He also stated that the University was thinking globally and acting locally in responding to the matter of climate change.

In her welcome address, the Dean, Faculty of Education, Prof. Rosemary O. Igbo said climate change required action at all levels of society, including individuals, business organization, local, state, national government and international bodies, stating that it cannot be addressed by only a few individuals with privileged access to information, but rather requires transfer of knowledge to decision makers and their constituents at all levels.

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Dean, Faculty of Education, Prof. Rosemary Igbo delivering her welcome address at the event
She added that Education is the key in the process because, in the case of climate change, learning from experience is learning too late and the delay between decisions that cause climate change and their full societal impact can range from decades to millennia, as a result learning from education rather than experience is essential to avoid those impacts.



Lead paper presenters at the event included the Vice-Chancellor of Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Prof. Charles U. Eze, who was represented by Associate Prof. Okwu-Delunze Ugoyibo, Director, Center for Applied Sciences and Technology, Enugu (CASTER), Ibrahim Babangida University Lapai, Prof. Nuhu George Obaje, former Director of Academic Planning, Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Prof. Ngozika Mbarjogu, and Senior Special Assistant to the Ebonyi State Governor on Climate Change, Dr. Obianuju G. Aloh.

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One of the lead paper presenters, Prof Prof. Nuhu George Obaje speaking at the conference
The highlights of the conference include tree planting in support of the campus-green initiative of the University, and award of certificate of excellence to some distinguished Nigerians in recognition of their efforts in human capital development. They are: Executive Governor of Ebonyi State, HE, Engr. David Nweze Umahi, Vice-Chancellor, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Prof. Sunday Oge Elom, Senator representing Anambra North Senatorial District, Princess Stella Adaeze Oduah, Senator (Dr.) Emmanuel Andy Uba MFR, Prof. Mkpa Agu Mkpa OFR, and Ebonyi State Resident Commissioner, Independent National Electoral Commission, Dr. Chukwuemeka Joseph Chukwu.

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DVC (Academic) Prof. Dennis Akoh (R) presenting an award of excellence to the Executive Governor of Ebonyi State, HE Engr. David Umahi represented by his SSA on Climate Change, Dr. Obianuju Aloh at the event

The Postgraduate Scholarship partnership between Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State and the French government through Campus France which was signed in 2016 has continued to yield more dividends.

Through the scheme, which is the first of its kind in the Nigerian University system, 42 young academics of the University have travelled to France for Masters’ and Doctoral (PhD) degrees in acclaimed universities.

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L-R: Bursar, Mr. Kingsley Oyekezie, Registrar, Odisa C. Okeke (Mrs.), beneficiary of the scholarship, Dr. Chinedu Egwu, VC, Prof. Sunday Elom, Director, French Centre, Prof. Nnenna Nwosu-Nworuh, Librarian, Dr. Juliana Akidi and DVC, Academic, Prof. Dennis Akoh when the VC received Dr. Egwu in his conference room recently


Some of the scholars that have completed their studies are back to the University, where they are contributing to its academic development in their various disciplines. Their coming back has also increased the critical mass of academics that are bi-lingual in the institution, which ultimately is helping to enhance the global acceptability and recognition of the university.

Recently, another beneficiary of the scheme who has completed his PhD programme and returned to the University was presented to the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sunday Elom by the Director, AE-FUNAI/French Centre, Prof. Nnenna Nwosu-Nworuh.

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L-R: Scholarship beneficiary, Dr. Chinedu Egwu, VC, Prof. Sunday Elom and Director, French Centre, Prof. Nnenna Nwosu Nworuh when the VC received Dr. Egwu in his conference room
Dr. Chinedu Ogbonnaya Egwu bagged a doctorate degree in Biochemistry at the Universite︣ Paul Sabatier (Federal University of Toulouse 11, Toulouse, France. He left the country to France in April, 2018 and defended his PhD thesis tilled “The Implication of Redox Mechanisms in the Mode of Action of Anti malarials and the Resistance to Artemisimin” on 23rd March, 2021. He is the 5th person to have completed his PhD degree among the beneficiaries of the scheme.

Speaking at the event to herald his return, Dr. Egwu expressed his gratitude to the University Management for the opportunity offered him to study abroad with a scholarship, adding that he came back to contribute in uplifting the University.

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Dr. Chinedu Egwu speaking at the event
He said: “Honestly, I feel so delighted for the opportunity that was given to me. I promise that you will not be disappointed”, adding “I will put in my best to uplift this citadel of learning.”

While receiving the returnee at his conference room, the Vice-Chancellor,Prof. Elom, commended him for coming back to the University after the completion of his programme, adding that the idea behind the scheme was to mass-produce lecturers that would make a difference and take the University to higher heights.

He frowned at a situation where some of the beneficiaries absconded after the completion of their studies instead of abiding by the rules of the bond they signed with the University before their departure, noting that the University will use all available legal means to ensure that all the beneficiaries come back to the University after their studies.

The Vice-Chancellor, therefore urged Dr. Egwu to utilize the knowledge he garnered during his academic sojourn abroad to contribute to the building of the University.

The Vice Chancellor, Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu Alike, Ebonyi state, Prof. Sunday Elom has inaugurated 8 Committees on Students’ Grades Verification.

The constitution and inauguration of the Committees was informed by the need to protect the integrity and authenticity of students’ grades and by extension, the academic certificate of the University by ensuring that lecturers do not favour some students through the award of frivolous marks nor witch-hunt some by undermining their academic grades.

While speaking at the occasion, the Acting Director, Directorate of Quality Assurance and Database Management, Dr. Lawrence Ogugua stated that the exercise which is in tandem with national and global best standards was designed to improve the quality of delivery of academic programmes and students’ output.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom (4th L) in a group photograph with some of the Committees’ team leaders
He emphasised that the Committees would carry out the roles of assessing the course specifications for various courses vis-a’-vis NUC Benchmark Minimum Academic standards(BMAS), scrutinize 1st and 2nd semesters examinations question papers, marking schemes, marked scripts, graded sheets, students’ projects and any other relevant documents that may help them make informed decisions, and then make recommendations to the University Management.



In the course of discharging their duties, Dr. Ogugua added that the Committee would interact with the Heads of Departments, course lecturers, departmental examination officers and course coordinators on the aforementioned issues.

He maintained that the exercise will address some of the deficiencies highlighted by the National Universities Commission’s accreditation panels, and satisfy the regulatory agencies’ directive for regular quality checks, thereby ultimately improving quality and standards of the university’s programmes.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom speaking during the inauguration ceremony


He therefore solicited for total commitment and transparency on the part of members of the Committees in order to achieve the desired results and the maximum cooperation of Deans and relevant staff in the execution of the assignment.



While inaugurating the Committees, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Elom commended the Directorate of Quality Assurance and Database Management for their roles in ensuring that the quality of academic activities in the University is maintained, adding that such integrity check was dear to the heart of the University Management.

“This quality assurance exercise is important to us as we try to build the image of a serious university

“People are commending our graduates because they have been able to distinguish themselves from others”, the Vice-Chancellor stated, adding “The integrity of our certificate is dear to us.”

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A cross section of members of the Committees during their inauguration


The Vice-Chancellor further frowned at” block marking’ – a system of marking of scripts where lecturers allot marks to students without justifying it, noting that it is prone to abuse, and warned defaulters to desist from the act or face dire consequences.



“There should be specific marks for specific answers. Block marking is prone to abuse. There will be sanctions for those who engage in such.”

He charged the team leaders of the Committees to take the exercise seriously and work towards completing the exercise on the stipulated time frame. He also urged the Directorate of Quality Assurance and Data-based Management to monitor the activities of the Committees to ensure strict compliance to their terms of reference.

…Receives VC Commendation

The students of Theatre Arts Department, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, have won two gold and one excellence awards at the 2021 Nigeria Universities Theatre Arts Festival (NUSTAF) held at Gregory University, Uturu, Abia State.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom, receiving the two gold awards from the executive of ATAS, AE-FUNAI chapter led by their President, Miss Blessing Okah
While presenting the three awards to the Vice-chancellor, Prof. Sunday Elom, yesterday, the President of the National Association of Theatre Arts Students (NATAS), AE-FUNAI chapter, Miss Blessing Okah, noted that they came to present the awards they won at the just concluded Nigerian Universities Theatre Arts Festival held at Gregory University Uturu, Abia State.

She explained that the two gold awards were in short film, and costume and fashion parade, while the excellence award was won in essay writing, play writing and make-up art.

The aspiring thespian further used the opportunity to thank the University Management, especially the Vice-Chancellor, for his support and encouragement to the theatre arts department, which she said, gave them the impetus and preparedness to win and make the University proud at the festival. She equally thanked the lecturers for their sterling academic ethos and work ethics, and assured of their continuous commitment towards writing the name of the University in gold, even in future competitions.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom, receiving the excellence award from the executive of ATAS, AE-FUNAI chapter led by their President, Miss Blessing Okah
While receiving the students’ contingent at his conference room, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Elom, commended them for their exploits, and for making the University proud at the festival, adding that his administration would continue to support them to take the University to the global stage.

In appreciation of the feat achieved by the students, he directed the immediate release of One hundred Thousand Naira (N100, 000) to them. This was in addition to the financial support he had earlier approved for their journey to the festival.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom and Principal Officers in a group photograph with some staff and students of Theatre Arts Department after their courtesy call on VC
The presentation visit to the Vice-Chancellor was led by the Head, Department of Theatre Arts, Dr. Charles Okwuowulu, who did not hide his feelings about the students’ extraordinary performance at the festival, stressing that the department was geared towards grooming artists that would not only win many laurels for the University but also excel in their chosen fields on graduation.

The Vice-Chancellor, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Prof. Sunday Oge Elom, has vowed to support the Campus-Green Initiative of the University by embarking on aggressive tree planting campaign.

The Vice-Chancellor made this known when the Staff of the Campus-Green Initiative led by their Coordinator, Arc. Ifeanyi N. Chukwu paid him a courtesy call recently.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom and DVC (Academic) in a group photograph with staff of the Campus-Green Initiative led by their Coordinator, Arc, Ifeanyi Chukwu


At the event, the Vice-Chancellor stressed the importance of tree planting in the present period of climate change and charged the staff of the Campus-Green Initiative to take their duties seriously in order to make AE-FUNAI one of the most environmental-friendly and climate-smart Universities in Nigeria.





Speaking further, Prof. Elom assured them of his administration’s support especially in the provision of the necessary facilities needed to run the programme, adding that the immediate past administration did very well in tree planting, and therefore promised to continue from where they stopped.

The Vice-Chancellor also used the opportunity to announce the elevation of the Campus-Green Initiative to a Directorate.

Earlier, the Coordinator, Campus-Green Initiative, Arc. Chukwu had stated that the purpose of their visit was to present the performance of the Initiative to the Vice-Chancellor, and also highlight the challenges facing the programme. And pleaded with the Management to approve fund to enable them plant more trees on campus and also maintain the already existing ones.

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Coordinator, Campus-Green Initiative, Arc. Ifeanyi Chukwu (L) handing a branded T-shirt of the programme to the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sunday Elom
The Coordinator further informed the Vice-Chancellor that they have planted over 33, 000 trees around the University, while also assuring of their willingness to plant more in future.

Dr. Mrs. Juliana Obiageri Akidi, has assumed office as the Librarian of the Alex Ekwueme Federal Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State. She replaced Dr. O. O. Adediji whose tenure expired in 2020, during the national lockdown occasioned by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Until her appointment by the University Governing Council at its Extraordinary Meeting held on Friday, 23rd April, 2021, Dr. Akidi was the Deputy Librarian at the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Abia State.

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University Librarian, Dr. Mrs. Juliana Akidi receiving the handover note from the former Coordinator of the University Library, Mr. Ejike Igwebuike


While taking over the mantle of leadership yesterday, Dr. Akidi noted that she would be loyal and dedicated to her duties, adding that the University library under her watch would witness efficient and effective service delivery.



“I will be loyal and dedicated, and will ensure efficient service delivery at the University library.”

She also stated that the confidence the University Governing Council reposed in her would not be betrayed.

“Having collected the handover note, I want to assure you that the confidence reposed in me will not be betrayed.”

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L-R: VC, Prof. Sunday Elom, University Librarian, Dr. Mrs. Juliana Akidi and former Coordinator University Library, Mr. Ejike Igwebuike after the handing over ceremony


Dr. Akidi further used the opportunity to appeal for the support of the University Management in providing all the necessary facilities to enable her delivery on the job, noting that she had an enormous work at hand in trying to reposition the University library for efficient service delivery.



The former Coordinator of the University Library, Mr. Ejike Igwebuike, while handing over the reins of power to the new librarian, expressed his appreciation to the University Management for their support during the one year he was in charge of the library, and appealed that the same level of support be accorded to the new librarian to enable her succeed and deliver on her mandates.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sunday Elom, while speaking at the event thanked the former Coordinator of the University library for holding forth when the tenure of the former librarian ended. The Vice-Chancellor also praised his dedication to duty and wished him well.

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University Librarian, Dr. Mrs. Juliana Akidi and VC, Prof. Sunday Elom, after the handing over ceremony


“Let me on behalf of management, staff and students of our university thank you for your dedication to duty” adding ‘You bridged the gap very well when the former librarian left.”

Addressing the new librarian, the Vice-Chancellor assured her of the unflinching support of the University Management to ensure she succeeds. He also promised to make her comfortable in order to galvanize her to perform at optimal level.

“We welcome you on board. We are happy that you joined us. We will do our best to ensure you succeed.

“We will make you comfortable to make sure you perform your duties very well”, the Vice-Chancellor concluded.

Mr. Kingsley Sunday Onyekezie, has taken over the mantle of leadership, as the Bursar of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi state. This is coming at the exit of the former Bursar, Alhaji Rafiu Kolawole Aliu whose tenure ended on Tuesday, 4th May, 2021.

While speaking at the handing over ceremony held at the Vice-Chancellor’s office yesterday, the former Bursar thanked the University Management for the cordial relationship he enjoyed with them during his tenure.

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AE-FUNAI Bursar, Mr. Kingsley Oyekezie (R) receiving the handover note from the former Bursar, Alhaji Rafiu Aliu


Alhaji Aliu explained that he had a good time working as Bursar, noting that he also had the rare opportunity of working with three Vice-Chancellors of the University, and expressed his happiness on the warm relationships he enjoyed with all of them.



“I want to use this opportunity to thank the Management for the cordial relationships that existed among us.”

He also used the opportunity to pray for the success of Mr. Oyekezie as the new helmsman, and appealed to the University Management to give him the needed support to excel in his new position.

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L-R: Bursar, Mr. Kingsley Oyekezie, Registrar, Odisa C. Okeke (Mrs.), VC, Prof. Sunday Elom, DVC (Academic), Prof. Dennis Akoh and former Bursar. Alhaji Rafiu Aliu in a group photograph after the handing over ceremony yesterday


He said: “I want to handover both the assets and liabilities of AEFUNAI to you, and pray that God will be with you and help you to finish successfully.”



While accepting the handover notes, Mr. Oyekezie expressed his happiness on the development and vowed not to disappoint the confidence reposed in him, promising to discharge his official responsibilities diligently and in line with the rules and regulations guiding the office.

“I am delighted to have been formally taken over the bursarship of the University

“I will discharge my duties diligently and in line with the rules and regulations guiding the office

“You will not regret my appointment as the Bursar of this university”, he concluded.



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L-R: Bursar, Mr. Kingsley Oyekezie, Registrar, Odisa C. Okeke (Mrs.), VC, Prof. Sunday Elom and DVC (Academic) Prof. Dennis Akoh in a group photograph after the handing over ceremony yesterday
In his remarks during the ceremony, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sunday Elom lauded the former Bursar for his dedication to duty, adding that the University benefited immensely from his network and connections.



“Let me on behalf of Management thank you for the service you rendered in this university since inception

“We actually benefited from your network and connections. We profoundly appreciate you for all the roles you played towards developing the University.”

The Vice-Chancellor also congratulate the new Bursar, Mr. Oyekezie, on his appointment, urging him to hit the ground running to ensure that he meets the expectations of the University.

Meanwhile, Mr. Oyekezie while assuming duty as the 2nd Bursar of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, on 5th May, 2021 pledged to be fair to everyone, stressing that he would also work together with all staff to achieve the objectives of the bursary department in particular and the University in general.

“I will be fair to all. We will work together to achieve all our objectives as a department and university.”

Recall that the Governing Council of the University had in a memorandum dated April 28, 2021, signed by the Secretary to the Council, Odisa C. Okeke (Mrs.) announced the appointment of Mr. Kingsley Sunday Oyekezie as Bursar, Dr. (Mrs.) Juliana Obiageri Akidi as the University Librarian and Dr. Henry Egi Aloh as Director of Health Services. This is sequel to the 29th extraordinary meeting of the Council held on Friday, April 23, 2021.

According to the memo announcing their appointments, “The appointment of the Bursar and the University Librarian is with effect from May 5, 2021 while that of the Director of Health Services was with immediate effect.”

The College of Medicine, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, has received approval for Pre-Clinical Accreditation from the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria.

This good news was conveyed by the Secretary of the Council, Dr. T. A. B. Sanusi in a letter dated 27th April, 2021 with reference number MDCN/1617/vol.1/84 to the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Sunday Elom.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom welcoming the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria Accreditation Team to the University with kola nuts when they paid him a courtesy recently
It states: “Council at its 6th plenary meeting held from 19th to 21st April, 2021 at Abuja has considered the report of the verification visitation team sent to your College of Medicine on the on 5th March, 2021.

“I am to convey approval for Pre-Clinical Accreditation of your College. You are to adhere strictly to a training of fifty (50)”, the letter stated.



The Registrar of the Council, Dr. Sanusi in the letter also noted: “Please, note that you are required to notify Council when you schedule the part 1 professional examinations, to enable us send observers to the examination.”

With this approval, the University’s College of Medicine can commence her 2nd Bachelor of Medicine (MB) examinations.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom (3rd L) in a group photograph with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria Accreditation Team when they visited the University recently
Recall that the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria had on 9th March, 2021 visited the University for the purpose of pre-clinical accreditation of her MBBS programme.



While responding to the approval, the Vice-Chancellor expressed his happiness on the feat, noting that the pre-clinical accreditation for the College of Medicine of the University was a milestone. Adding that what takes some Universities many years to achieve was attained by AE-FUNAI in just one attempt.



He further used the opportunity to maintain that the MBBS Programme would be the flagship of the University, assuring that Management would put all necessary things in place to ensure that students were given quality and competitive medical education.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom and some members of the University Management in a group photograph with the Accreditation Team from the Nigerian Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria when they visited the University recently

The Presidential Visitation Panel for Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, set up by the President and Commander – in – -Chief of the Armed Forces, Federal Republic of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari GCFR, who is also the Visitor to the other 37 Federal Universities and 4 Inter-University Centres, has commenced its sitting in the University.

The purpose of the Visitation Exercise is to review the performance of the University in the areas of Governance, Academic Standards, Quality Assurance, Management of Finances, relationships among the Management, Staff and Students, Physical Infrastructure and Instructional Facilities. At the end, the Panel is expected to advise the Federal Government accordingly.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom (R) welcoming the Presidential Visitation Panel to the University as he presents kola nuts to the Chairman of the Panel, Ambassador Usman Sarki


The Visitation Exercise which is for the period of 2011 to 2020 has the former Nigerian Ambassador to the United Nations, HE Ambassador Usman Sarki as Chairman. Other members of the panel include; Dr. Modupeola B. Adeniran, Dr. Wilfred A. Iguodala, Alh, Usman Ibrahim Shehu, Prof. Victor Dugga and Prof. Ollubunmi A. Omotesho while Dr. Victoria Terkumber Pillah is the Secretary.

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Director, Physical Planning, Works and Services, Dr. A. I. Ezeocha, taking members of the Panel around the campus on a familiarization tour
During a courtesy call on the Vice-Chancellor, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Prof. Sunday Elom yesterday, which also marked the commencement of their work in the institution, the Chairman of the Panel, Ambassador Sarki expressed their sincere appreciation and highest regards to President Buhari who deemed it fit to constitute Visitation Panels to Thirty-Eight (38) Federal Universities and Four (4) Inter- University Centers , adding that the purpose of the Visitation Exercise was to review the performance of AE-FUNAI in the areas of Governance, Academic Standards, Quality Assurance, Management of Finances, the relationship between Management on one hand, Staff and Students , on the other hand the condition of physical Infrastructure as well as Instructional Facilities and thereafter advice the Government accordingly.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom (4TH R) in a group photograph with members of the Presidential Panel to the University led by the Chairman, AmbassadorUsman Sarki (4th L)


He also noted that they were a Visitation Panel and not an inquisition panel, and therefore encouraged the University to work with them to discharge their responsibilities without hitches.



Ambassador Sarki further congratulated Prof. Elom on his recent appointment as the 3rd Vice-Chancellor of the University, and wished him well during his tenure.



Earlier while welcoming the Presidential Visitation Panel at his Conference Room, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Elom, stated that the University was established on 26th February, 2011, adding that it was 10 years and 2months old. He also explained that the University started academic calendar on November 5, 2012 with 3 Faculties but now it has 11 Faculties, a College of Medicine and a Postgraduate school.

He further stressed that AE-FUNAI aspires to be a world class University, as such ensures the maintenance of a stable academic calendar, adding that in the past 5 years it has consistently held a convocation ceremony every year, which has made the University to be regarded as one of the most serious public universities in Nigeria.

The Vice-Chancellor encouraged the members of the Panel to feel at home and assured that the University Management would cooperate with the team to achieve a common goal.

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Principal Officers of the University in a group photograph with the members of the Visitation Panel
The Presidential Visitation Panel holds its sitting at the Council Chamber, Ground Floor, Prof. Chinedum Nwajiuba’s Senate Building, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State.



For all those interested in submitting memoranda to the panel, all submissions should be type-written, duly signed and addressed to the Chairman, Presidential Visitation Panel to the Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State.

Ten (10) hard copies of the memos should be sealed and dropped in the drop box located at the entrance of the Council Chamber, Ground Floor, Prof. Chinedum Nwajiuba’s Senate Building, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State. While e-copies should be forwarded to the Panel’s email address: pvpaefunai@gmail.com on or before May 10th, 2021.

Thursday, 1st April, 2021 will remain a memorable day in the history of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, as a member of the University Governing Council; Emeritus Professor Michael Omolewa clocked 80.

As an erudite scholar of international standing and a member of the 3rd Governing Council of the University, Professor Omolewa’s astuteness, dexterity and sagacity have contributed immensely to the growth and development of the University.

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Emeritus Professor Michael Omolewa (C) cutting his birthday cake while the President, AE-FUNAI Women Association, Dr. Mrs. Chinyere Elom (L) and Professor Nnenna Nwosu-Nworuh watch with keen interest
In a surprise get-together organized in his honour on Tuesday, 30th March, 2021 during the 27th Extraordinary Meeting of the University Governing Council, the Pro-Chancellor/Chairman of the Governing Council, Emeritus Professor Nimi Briggs lauded the sterling contributions of Professor Omolewa to the advancement of the Nigerian University system, stressing that as a member of the AE-FUNAI Governing Council, his robust contributions during deliberations have been inspirational.

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Pro-Chancellor/Chairman, Governing Council, Emeritus Professor Nimi Briggs (R) and the celebrant, Emeritus Professor Michael Omolewa in a convivial mood during the event


While expressing his surprise on the birthday get-together organized in his honour, a visibly elated Emeritus Professor Omolewa noted that he hardly celebrates his birthday, and expressed his gratitude to the governing council, especially the Pro-Chancellor/Chairman, Emeritus Professor Briggs and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sunday Elom, for celebrating him on his birthday.

He also used the occasion to invoke the blessings of the Almighty God on all the members of the Governing Council and the entire university community.

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DVC (Academic), Professor Dennis Akoh (with microphone) leading the prayers during the event


The highlights of the event were a tribute by the Pro-Chancellor/Chairman of Governing Council, cutting of birthday cake and prayer session in honour of the seasoned academic.

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VC, Professor Sunday Elom (R) clinking wine glasses with the Celebrant, Emeritus Professor Michael Omolewa during the event

In response to the clarion call of the Vice-Chancellor, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Professor Sunday Elom, appealing to good-spirited and philanthropic individuals, and the organized private sector (OPS) to use the institution as one of the places for their Corporate Social Responsibility (CRS) and other mutually-benefiting investments, the President of the AnyiChuks Foundation Worldwide, Chief (Dr.) Ifeanyichukwuma Odii has promised to do one of the best projects ever sited in the University.

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President, Anyichuks Foundation, Chief (Dr.) Ifeanyichukwuma Odii (standing) speaking at the event while the President, AE-FUNAI WA, Dr. Mrs. Chinyere Elom (L) and Vice President, Anyichuks Foundation, Chief Mrs. Ebele Odii (R) listen with keen interest


The business mogul made this known yesterday when the President of the Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike Women Association (AE-FUNAI WA), Dr. Mrs. Chinyere Elom visited him at his country home, Isu in Onicha Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.

While recounting his various philanthropic projects in different parts of the country, Chief Odii noted that he was a humanitarian by nature, adding that the Anyichuks Foundation was founded about 15 years ago to provide succor to the downtrodden.

On that note, he stated that he would do one of the best projects in the University, adding that he would pay a visit to the Vice-Chancellor in that regard.

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L-R: University PRO, Mr. Elom Ikechukwu Ubochi, President, AE-FUNAI WA, Dr. Mrs. Chinyere Elom, President, Anyichuks Foundation, Chief. (Dr.) Ifeanyichukwuma Odii, Vice President, Anyichuks Foundation, Chief Mrs. Ebele Odii and Coordinator, Anyichuks Foundation, Ebonyi State, Mr. Christian Onu at the event


“The Vice-Chancellor should always count on me. I will support him because he is our own. Tell him that I will do one of the best projects in the University”, adding “I will pay him a visit in no distant time.”



He further explained that he was interested in education because it is the only way out of poverty, noting that he is a member of the Governing Council of the Lagos State University. He also said that his Foundation has over 1000 indigents that have benefited from their humanitarian work, especially in the provision of houses and scholarships.

Earlier in her opening remarks, the President of AE-FUNAI WA, Dr. Mrs. Elom had lauded the philanthropic work of Chief Odii, even as she also used the opportunity to call on him to extend his milk of human kindness to the University by intervening in some key areas such as in the construction of students’ hostel, construction of some houses for staff quarters and construction of internal roads.

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President, AE-FUNAI WA, Dr, Mrs. Chinyere Elom speaking during the visit
“I have heard about all the good things you have been doing. I am here to thank you, and to appeal that you extend your goodness to the University

“The University needs assistance in the areas of internal road network, students’ hostels and staff quarters”, she stated.

Dr. Mrs. Elom also assured him of the support and friendship of the University, saying “Your Excellency, be rest assured that you are now a friend of our University, and the Vice-Chancellor will give you the necessary support to ensure that your plans for the institution are actualized.”

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University PRO, Mr. Elom Ikechukwu Ubochi (1st R) speaking during the event while , President, AE-FUNAI WA, Dr. Mrs. Chinyere Elom, President, Anyichuks Foundation, Chief. (Dr.) Ifeanyichukwuma Odii, Vice President, Anyichuks Foundation, Chief Mrs. Ebele Odii and Coordinator, Anyichuks Foundation, Ebonyi State, Mr. Christian Onu listen