₦airaland Forum

– Donates medical relief materials worth millions of Naira
A Canadian based non-governmental organisation, United Sharelife Organisation (USO), USA, led by Very Revd. Dr. U. Dike, on Monday, 18th March, 2019, visited Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State and donated medical equipment worth millions of Naira as part of its humanitarian services to mankind.
The equipment donated includes 50 pairs of medicated eyeglasses, inhalers, malaria drugs and 5 wheel chairs, among others.

Their visitation was attracted by the Head of Counselling Unit, AE-FUNAI, Dr. Mrs Ngozi Nwudu, due to her acknowledgeable experience and expertise as part of her effort towards internationalising the institution and making life more meaningful to the indigent and health challenged ones.

Receiving the guests, the Vice-Chancellor, Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike, Prof. Chinedum Nwajiuba extolled the donors for their courage and sacrifice for humanity adding that the gesture would go a long way in addressing health challenges facing some students and staff of the institution and by extension, the university community as part of its social responsibility.

The Vice-Chancellor, who was represented by the Director Admission, Mr. Noble O. Onukwue noted that the university applauds the benefactors and stands to welcome individuals and other non-governmental organisations to support the University Health Clinic because of its enormous and huge capital requirement that cannot be left in the hands of government alone.
The leader of the team, Dr. Dike reiterated that they were encouraged and moved to assist Africans because of the high level of poverty and disease ravaging the continent which require the United Nations urgent attention. “We want AE-FUNAI to be partakers of our generosity. We did it to others and must do it to you", he said.

*FEDERAL UNIVERSITY, A METAPHOR – AE-FUNAI VC tells Parents*
The Vice-Chancellor, Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Prof. Chinedum Nwajiuba on Wednesday, 13th March, 2019, had interaction with the parents forum of the institution. The forum is an umbrella body comprising all the parents and guardians of the institution.
Speaking during the session at the university’s main auditorium, the Vice-Chancellor noted that the term ‘Federal University’ is metaphorical. He gave explanation that federal institutions are owned and supposed to be sufficiently funded by the federal government but in our present circumstance, sufficient standard has become an issue of concern.
He provided deep insight on why AE-FUNAI has parents’ forum which is legally recognized by NUC, Ministry of Education and relevant stakeholders in education sector. Consequently, the forum was inaugurated to assist the university in some challenging and burning areas especially as it concerns funding.
He thanked the forum for their openness, transparency and dedication to the common goal they are championing together with the university especially their intervention in providing desks, perimeter fencing, and accommodation among others. He also told them that the interaction is imperative so as to brief the parents on the latest development and blueprints for the present academic session. Speaking further, he told the forum that AE-FUNAI is the only Nigerian university that has introduced Language Enhancement Programme- LEP, which is aimed at increasing the efficiency and effectiveness of students in their speaking, reading and writing skills. The result is quite amazing.

The Vice-Chancellor noted that AE-FUNAI is one of the fastest growing university in Nigeria and one of the most serious institutions that sticks to academic time-table and graduates students at the expected time. He further stated that AEFUNAI has the most suitable academic calendar and environment. He said: “When we reopen, we go to class. We have quality teachers that deliver quality teaching and learning”.
He advised the parents not to alienate themselves from their wards but should pay close attention to their needs and encourage their spiritual, moral and academic values to adapt conformably with the vision and mission of the university because ‘there is no room for lousiness in AE-FUNAI’, He said.
Responding, the chairman of the forum, Prof. S. A. Igwe mentioned that AE-FUNAI has come to stay and parents ‘interventions and supports would continue to grow. He added that the university ‘is a city of the city and mentioned that the intervention of the forum in perimeter fencing has given protection to the university especially from the menace of herdsmen in the campus. He also noted that the forum has provided about 2000 solar lamps free to students to enable them read at nights.


He therefore calls on the forum to endeavour to attend meetings of the forum so as to witness their projects and have interactions with their wards even as their activities are open to critique.
Excos of AEFUNAI parents forum with the university management.

The Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, was on Wednesday, 13th March, 2019, marked its 7th matriculation ceremony with a difference. The difference is not just about the matriculation but the new concept- open day as introduced by the Vice-Chancellor.

This means that parents and guardians of both old and new students under the auspices of AE-FUNAI PARENTS FORUM were also captured in the event to identify with the university’s developmental goals, giant strides and vigorous transformation so as to engender mutual relationship for the primary purpose of achieving effective and efficient service delivery, especially in teaching and learning.
This year’s ceremony, recorded huge success as matriculants were seen in their ceremonial robes receiving inductions and words of advice and highlights on the expectations of the university from them.
In a message conveying the Vice-Chancellors address to the matriculating students, Prof. Chinedum Nwajiuba charged the students to be actively involved in their studies, noting that the university is a hallmark of seriousness. He added that the publics are already aware of the seriousness of the institution with both the staff and students.
He opined that there is no room for nonchalant and lazy students adding that victims of compromising situations who could not measure up in their academic performances face either probation or withdrawal pending on ones state
The Vice-Chancellor enjoined them to be driven at all times by their unquenchable goal to graduate at a recorded time pointing out that every course registered must be passed. ‘Work hard and behave well, and you will be successful. In the university, you must pass every course you register.
‘This is not a secondary school where you may fail a subject and still move on. You must also attend lectures as attendance to lectures is a prerequisite to sit for examinations’, he said. In the area of social vices commonly ravaging other tertiary institutions, Prof. Nwajiuba reiterated that vices such as cultism, stealing, examination malpractice, sorting, harassment of all sorts and indecent dressings have no place in the institution. He rather appealed to the students to internalize the virtues of the university‘s motto, Excellence and Integrity which is the bedrock for all students of AEFUNAI-the soaring eagles.
Similarly, he advised them to be familiarized with the wordings of the university song which harps on the belief that, sweet from sweat endures, and, as we set our eyes on enlightened horizon, we expect to take our place among the stars and the wider world’, he enthused.
In another development, the Vice-Chancellor encouraged the parents and guardians to pay closer attention to their wards especially in their academic endeavour and character stressing that no degree will be awarded to any graduate deficient in character but must have an embodiment of certified and satisfied excellent in ‘character and learning’.
The action Vice-Chancellor paid short visits to each faculty congratulating them for the onerous task well executed and asked them to keep their good works so as to achieve world class standard even as the Dean, Faculty of Science, Prof. F. X. Ugodulunwa, presented cake to commemorate the ceremony.

The Council of Federal Institutions’, an umbrella body of Federal universities in Ebonyi State ‘on Wednesday, 6th March, 2019, paid courtesy visit to the Vice-Chancellor, Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Prof. Chinedum Nwajiuba.
The team was led by the President of the SUG (AEFUNAI), Comrade Njoku Francis Ogbonna who noted that the organization took a holistic view and general assessment of the best performing Vice-Chancellors in the Federal Institutions in Ebonyi State and discovered that Prof. Nwajiuba excelled his equals and deserved the praise and commendation of the students’ body.
He averred that the Vice-Chancellor was rated with unequal parallel in massive infrastructural development and human capacity building and has transformed the university within short period of time.
Mr. Ogbonna recalled his admission year with AEFUNAI to have been characterized with pains and agony where they usually sat on blocks for chairs and shades for classroom. He posited that the bushy pathways created room for rape, sexual abuse and harassment but today, history has changed and posterity will forever remember the works of the Vice-Chancellor.
Highlights of their visitation were the presentation of VC’s portrait, a plague, a photo stand and a celebration cake.
In response, the Vice-Chancellor thanked them but charged them to be more committed in their studies and shun laziness in their lives and academic endeavours, pointing out that AEFUNAI is a serious institution and will not compromise that trust of seriousness the institution has been identified with especially the university degree.
‘We are here to produce degrees that are globally competent’ and we are to give you that image and reputation’, he said.

The Department of Mass Communication, Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State was on Wednesday, 6th March, 2019, officially directed to take over the management of AE-FUNAI Radio Station.
TheVice-Chancellor, Prof. Chinedum Nwajiuba, gave the directive when he received members of the department in his conference room when they came to show solidarity and support to the VC on the result of the National Universities Commission giving full accreditation to the programme and to the faculty at large.
The team which was led by the Dean of the faculty, Prof. Afam Icha-Ituma, expressed their robust feelings towards the de-merging of Mass Communication from the Political Science programme witnessed among other things.
In her remarks, the Head of the Department, Dr. Ngozi E. Uduma, extolled the rare virtues in the Vice-Chancellor in his transformation drive and described him as an education master strategist. She sought among other things in their requests, an authorization to manage AEFUNAI Radio, an approval to publish newspapers and magazines to enhance visibility of the activities of the university.
Other requests included approval to start a blog to enhance online global visibility and approval to collaborate with the Public Relations Unit to advance teaching, learning and practice of Public Relations among others.
The Vice-Chancellor granted their request and urged them to hit the ground running, noting their readiness and expertise in the field knowledge and classroom ability to produce graduates that are globally competent to create employment.
The Vice-Chancellor was exhilarated over the ‘quality of content’ found in the team and promised to raise an office block for the Faculty of Social Sciences in an appreciable time.

The Vice-Chancellor, Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Prof. Chinedum Nwajiuba has pledged unalloyed support and collaborative effort with the host community in providing social amenities. He said that the synergy with the community to the government would bring succour and much needed facility to the people.
Speaking while receiving members of Amegu Echara Youth Forum in his office, the Vice-Chancellor recalled his magnanimity to people of Ikwo especially his openness and partnership in developing the community and noted that the community is friendly.
He disclosed that Ikwo is the only host community that got the highest number of admission intakes in the 2018/2019 academic session adding that his commitment was to remove the stigma of less educationally advantaged people to most educated group within the shortest period of time.
He noted that civilization and development accompanying citing a university in a particular area attract a lot of benefits but sometimes breached by little activities of miscreants.
‘University is a good thing. A good thing has cost implication’. There is increased demand for housing accommodation and this has multiplier effects. The need for greater water consumption and the need for enhanced security outfits and high cost of renting houses as a result of increased demand are all end products of development’, the Vice Chancellor noted.
Prof. Nwajiuba observed that ‘the university is growing and will keep growing while the economy of the locals will change and by extension, the state in general’.
The Vice Chancellor pleaded with the group to foster peace and prudence in dealing with the students, stressing that posterity keeps record of cherished attitudes.
The leader of the group, Mr. Ogbonnaya Onele expressed delight and deep satisfaction over the rapid transformation and speedy, massive infrastructural development witnessed all over the university and assured the University of their cooperation and collaboration.
Highpoint of the visit was the presentation of a plaque bearing ‘1st Igbo Vice-Chancellor’ to herald their fulfilled desire from the management of the institution.

The Vice-Chancellor, Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Prof. Chinedum Nwajiuba has pledged unalloyed support and collaborative effort with the host community in providing social amenities. He said that the synergy with the community to the government would bring succour and much needed facility to the people.
Speaking while receiving members of Amegu Echara Youth Forum in his office, the Vice-Chancellor recalled his magnanimity to people of Ikwo especially his openness and partnership in developing the community and noted that the community is friendly.
He disclosed that Ikwo is the only host community that got the highest number of admission intakes in the 2018/2019 academic session adding that his commitment was to remove the stigma of less educationally advantaged people to most educated group within the shortest period of time.
He noted that civilization and development accompanying citing a university in a particular area attract a lot of benefits but sometimes breached by little activities of miscreants.
‘University is a good thing. A good thing has cost implication’. There is increased demand for housing accommodation and this has multiplier effects. The need for greater water consumption and the need for enhanced security outfits and high cost of renting houses as a result of increased demand are all end products of development’, the Vice Chancellor noted.
Prof. Nwajiuba observed that ‘the university is growing and will keep growing while the economy of the locals will change and by extension, the state in general’.
The Vice Chancellor pleaded with the group to foster peace and prudence in dealing with the students, stressing that posterity keeps record of cherished attitudes.
The leader of the group, Mr. Ogbonnaya Onele expressed delight and deep satisfaction over the rapid transformation and speedy, massive infrastructural development witnessed all over the university and assured the University of their cooperation and collaboration.
Highpoint of the visit was the presentation of a plaque bearing ‘1st Igbo Vice-Chancellor’ to herald their fulfilled desire from the management of the institution.

The Registrar of Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Prof. Ishaq Oloyede says the Board is proud of the academic activities of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State.
He stated this recently when the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Chinedum Nwajiuba paid him courtesy call at his office in Abuja.


Commending the Vice-Chancellor for taking the University to greater heights, Prof. Oloyede said: “Your University is a school we are proud of because of your antecedents and achievements within this short period of time.

The moment Prof. Nwajiuba was appointed I knew he will take the university to greater heights. Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike is in for a big deal”, he stated. He further noted that AE-FUNAI and JAMB were partners in progress, promising to always address any identified problems relating to the University’s admission activities.

Responding to the Vice-Chancellor’s request for the admission of foreign students who do not have English language in their O’ level examinations into the university as the institution was looking at admitting students from neighboring countries in the gulf of guinea like Cameroon, He explained that foreign students who do not have English Language were qualified to be admitted into the University, stressing that there is usually a 6-month emersion programme meant to teach and bridge their language gap. He also applauded the Vice-Chancellor’s effort in trying to admit foreign students, saying that a university should be universal and diverse in its approach in order to address the various challenges facing humanity.


While speaking at the visit, Prof. Nwajiuba extolled the various contributions of the Board Registrar to the development of the Nigerian Public Service.

“Your selfless sacrifice and contribution to the country cannot be overlooked and it has inspired us in various capacities, I pray God grants you the grace to carry on these good works”, he stated.
He also thanked him for approving the University’s Computer-based Test (CBT) centre, adding that its importance to the institution cannot be overemphasized especially as the University council has approved the commencement of staff promotion examinations.
He explained that the University has eight thousand (8,000) students domiciled in the faculties of Agriculture, Basic Medical Sciences, Education, Engineering and Technology, Humanities, Management and Social Sciences, Science and a College of Medicine, stressing that in the last accreditation exercise by the National Universities Commission in 2018, the University had twenty six of its academic programmes fully accredited.

The Vice-Chancellor maintained that AE-FUNAI is a serious-minded institution geared towards turning out graduates that are globally-competitive. He further offered to give instant admission to students outside the university’s catchment area who performed creditably well in their Senior Secondary School Examination and Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination as a way of diversifying the university’s admission process.

The visit was part of the Vice-Chancellor engagement with all relevant stakeholders in his drive to ensure the University justifies the reason for its establishment.

AE-FUNAI VC REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO CONTINOUS DEVELOPMENT AS HE MARKS 3 YEARS IN OFFICE
The Vice-Chancellor of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Prof. Chinedum Nwajiuba, has reaffirmed his commitment to the development of the University.
The Vice-Chancellor made this known recently during a thanksgiving church service at the Christ the King Anglican Chaplaincy, AE-FUNAI to mark his 3 years in office.
Supported by staff, students and many invited guests, he gave glory to God for the numerous landmark achievements the University has attained under his watch, noting that God truly loves him as evidenced by His various benefits in his life.

In his sermon entitled “Now Our God, We Give You Thanks”, the Anglican Bishop of Ikwo Diocese, Rt. Rev. Ken C. Ifemene, quoting from the book of 1 Corinthians 29 verse 13, stressed the importance of knowing the God we are serving and to always acknowledge his might.

“Just as David gave praise and thanksgiving to God and God blessed him, we as children of God need to always give thanks in good and bad times to attract Gods favor, promotion and open doors in our lives”, he noted.

He explained that thanksgiving was a way of appreciating and acknowledging the goodness and mercy of God, adding “Thankfulness is an important policy for every child of God.”
He used the opportunity to thank God for sending Prof. Nwajiuba to the University as its Vice-Chancellor and prayed for more progress in the remaining time of his stewardship.

While speaking at the event, the Vice-Chancellor recounted the state of the University, saying: “I know how I met this place when I first came here. Let me make reference to page 26 of the program of event, the state of the university when I assumed duty. But today, the story is different. It can only be God.”

He continued: “Chinedum! It is God that guides me and I give him thanks. I thank God for the good structures and good roads we are seeing today. It is only God that touches the heart of kings to act.”

Soliciting the financial support of staff and other invited guests in helping to build a befitting place of worship for God in the University, the Vice-Chancellor said: “ If I serve as Vice-Chancellor for five years in a virgin land and I leave without establishing a place of worship what do I tell my God?.

I will leave here in 23months; one year, eleven months and three weeks. I am calling on you all to help in raising funds for the building of the Christ the King Chapel”, he stated.


He further used the event to assure the University community of more development and transformation in the institution before the end of the year, enjoining all staff and students to work with him in order to leave a lasting legacy.

The heart-touching request of the Vice-Chancellor galvanized the University Management, Deans and Directors, individual members of staff and invited guests to raise funds for the building of the Chapel. The freewill donations yielded over five million naira.

AE-FUNAI, JAMB TO PARTNER IN DEVELOPING SUDENTS’ ICT CAPACITIES
Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State is to partner Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB) in developing the capacities of students in the use of Information and Communication Technology for enhanced academic performance and other worthwhile activities.
This was made known recently by the Registrar of the Board, Prof, Ishaq Oloyede when the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Chinedum Nwajiuba paid him courtesy call at his office in Abuja.

The Registrar noted the need to partner with the University in an IT talent competition among students to enable them display their hidden talents, adding that it would help them to properly channel their energies towards worthwhile activities that would improve their lives. He however decried the activities of students who use their IT skills for fraudulent endeavours, thereby painting the name of their institutions and that of themselves in bad light. He also explained that the competition would be a way of diverting their attention positively to see how such talents could be harnessed adequately to address national needs and informed the Vice-Chancellor that JAMB would also consider establishing its own CBT centre in the University.

Commending the Vice-Chancellor for repositioning the University to become a point of reference among public Universities in Nigeria, Prof. Oloyede said: “Your University is a school we are proud of because of your antecedents and achievements within this short period of time. The moment Prof. Nwajiuba was appointed I knew he will take the university to greater heights. Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike is in for a big deal.”
He further assured the Vice-Chancellor that AE-FUNAI and JAMB were partners in progress, promising to come to the aid of the University in order to address any identified problems relating to its admission activities. He noted that foreign students who do not have English Language were qualified to be admitted, stressing that there is usually an emersion programme meant to teach them English language for six months. He also commended the Vice-Chancellor’s effort in trying to admitting foreign students, saying that a university should be universal and diverse in order to address various needs of any country.

While speaking at the visit, Prof. Nwajiuba extolled the various contributions of the Board Registrar to the development of the Nigerian Public Service.

“Your selfless sacrifice and contribution to the country cannot be overlooked and it has inspired us in various capacities, I pray for God to grant you the grace to carry on these good work”, he stated.
He also thanked him for approving the University’s Computer-based Test (CBT) centre, adding that its importance to the institution cannot be overemphasized especially as the university council has approved the commencement of staff promotion examinations. He explained that the University has eight thousand (8,000) students domiciled in the faculties of Agriculture, Basic Medical Sciences, Education, Engineering and Technology, Humanities, Management and Social Sciences, Science and a College of Medicine, stressing that in the last accreditation exercise by the National Universities Commission in 2018, the University had twenty six of its academic programmess fully accredited.

The Vice-Chancellor maintained that AE-FUNAI was a serious-minded institution geared towards turning out graduates that are globally-competitive. He also used the opportunity to request for the admission of foreign students who do not have English language in their O’ level into the university as the institution was looking at admitting Cameroonians. He further offered to give instant admission to students outside the university’s catchment area who performed creditably well in their Senior Secondary School Examination and Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination as a way of diversifying the university.

The visit was part of the engagement programmes of the Vice-Chancellor meant to build synergies with all relevant stakeholders in his drive to ensure the University justifies the reason for its establishment.

The Vice-Chancellor, Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State (AE-FUNAI), Prof. Chinedum Nwajiuba enjoined all the newly admitted students of the institution to brace up and face their studies.
Declaring the student orientation open, the Vice-Chancellor represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academics, Prof. Sunday Elom reminded the freshmen that the university is noted for its seriousness both in character and learning.
He mentioned that the university thrives heavily on Excellence, Integrity and Entrepreneurship. Noting that the university though, young, had excelled in many areas of endeavor. He charged them to be committed in their studies and shun bad character that may truncate their studentship but engage fruitfully in all the skill acquisition programmes available to them in order to complement their academics and make them employers of labour rather than seekers of job where there is none.
Prof. Elom charged the students to shun cultism and get focused on their education. ‘Make sure you play your part to justify the trust reposed on you by your parents through their investment on you and avoid frivolous activities’.
He maintained that once the students remain tilted to their studies, they would surely graduate at the expected time.


On her part, the Registrar of the institution, Okeke C. Odisa (Mrs.), told the students to be wary of their freedom. She maintained that their freedom is encapsulated with responsibility. She inferred that now is the opportunity to invest their time properly so as to reap its fruits in future.
“Don’t join bad association. There are good and religious associations that can shape your life in consonance with the expectation of the society”.
‘Ladies, don’t entice our lecturers. Dress well and cover your bodies and contours to avoid crying foul. It is only the unserious students that approach lecturers to induce marks. A serious- minded student always face his/her studies properly ahead of examination’.
The Registrar charged the students to ensure they clear themselves with the Registry unit noting that every activity of each student, begins and ends with Registry.

The university Bursar, Alhaji R. k. Aliu, who was represented by Mr. Achine Ojang, enjoined the students to pay up their fees stipulated by the institution ahead of their matriculation as this is the only key towards collecting registration number and serves eligibility factor.
Also, the university Librarian, Dr. O. O. Adediji, who was represented by Dr. Igwe Chinonso, stated that the library is open 24hours for the students to make consultations and advance in the course of their studies but warned that preservation and careful usage is the watch ward of the unit.
The orientation covered a whole range of issues bordering from students successful and productive stay on campus, relationship with the host community, to need for counseling and ICT management among others.
The Dean, Student Affairs, Dr. Otu, Otu Akanu in his closing remarks, advised the students to behave well and set a pace for themselves as to determine their final grade from inception.

The Vice-Chancellor, Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State (AE-FUNAI), Prof. Chinedum Nwajiuba, on Thursday, 21st February, 2019, made pact with the graduating students of the institution. Briefing the students at the main auditorium, the Vice- Chancellor reiterated his commitment to ensuring strict compliance of the academic calendar to guide their prompt graduation from the institution.
He noted that his primary objective of meeting with them was to inform them that their concern is of paramount importance to him and as such, should consider themselves great people. “My objective to gather you here is to tell you that you are no small people and that by August this year, you are no more in this university”.
He therefore struck an all-important deal with the students that everyone should play alongside the academic calendar so as to ensure a hitch free graduation. He enjoined them to play their parts while he played his in order to get things right.
“You should play your part and I will play my part. My lecturers would have loved to see you stay back at home in this election period for your safety but I argued in the negative that you will end up in the hands of the crook politicians as political thugs”.
‘I am going to treat you fairly but firmly and you must graduate when due and nothing more. I will stop at nothing to satisfactorily engage our lecturers to give you the best which like a father, I have been doing’.
“Your part is to face your studies and I will ensure that your examinations are taken accordingly and results are ready while you will be mobilized for your National Youths Service Corps Programme by October this year, only if you play your part’, he noted.
He reminded the students that they are soaring eagles that think out-of-the-box all the time towards achieving special results. He noted that the public image of the university is seriousness.
“Success is a product of hard work and a driver to greater success. We shall make sacrifices and bear the burden to ensure your successful graduation. We are not perfect, but we are getting better”, he affirmed.
He charged them to shun thuggery and engage themselves in their assignments and studies during the weekends.

• Okays its readiness for industrial production

The Acting Director, Centre for Entrepreneurship and Employability (CEE), Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State (AE-FUNAI), Dr. Makuochukwu Ojide, has confirmed the pragmatic effort of the centre towards producing quality honey that is suitable and readily available for pharmaceutical productions.
Confirming the statement during students training, he noted that the Directorate has numerous sellable skills to equip the students and one of those skills is the honey production.
Speaking further at the field experience on Thursday, 21st February, 2019, Dr. Ojide noted that students of AE-FUNAI, now produce natural honey that meets the specifications of pharmaceutical industries.
He explained that some of the already colonized hives are doing real good while the hives yet to be colonized were baited again. In the artificial baiting, he noted that under the colonized hives, the combs so far are properly formed.
He remarked that only the super chambers will be harvested while the brooding chamber will be left untapped. He also noted that parts of its requirement to meeting pharmaceutical standards was the ability to site the farm away from environmental pollution and gas flaring industries and companies that could affect production and life span of the bees.
The Director, however, noted that the Centre is open to staff and students as an entrepreneurial opportunity available for all to utilize. He mentioned that the interest of the farm is meant to capture all students from across the faculties. Hence, the Directorate would serve as a window of opportunity and intermediary to students on Industrial Training, (IT), Agro business, photo industry and other avalanche of trade available to students.
He mentioned that harvests will commence after three months of production because the centre is serving two interests of training and production

This is to inform you that the screening test for Postgraduate applicants holds as follows:
Date: Monday, 25th February, 2019
Venue: ICT Lab (Take-Off Site)
Time: 10:00am
The applicants are requested to pay an exam fee of Five Thousand Naira (N 5,000) only to the bank through REMITA and tender their tellers at venue of exam to enable them sit for the exercise.
Thank you

NIGERIAN AMBASSADOR TO ARGENTINA COMMENDS AE-FUNAI’S ACCELERATED GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT
The Nigerian Ambassador to Argentina, with corresponding authority over Chile, Peru and Uruguay, His Excellency Mr. Jonah Mkpuruka has commended the rapid growth and development taking place in Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State.
The envoy made this known yesterday when he paid a courtesy call to the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Chinedum Nwajiuba, extolling the speedy rise of the University as one of the most-sought-after tertiary institutions in Nigeria.


“I am so delighted to be in your midst. What I have seen today is serious evidence that you people are doing well. The story is different here

“I am highly impressed on the level of your growth and development”, the ambassador said.
The envoy also assured the Vice-Chancellor of his continuous support to the University, pledging to link it with other notable Universities in the countries of his diplomatic assignment in order to help the institution achieve its vision and aspirations.
“I will do everything to support you and the University. I will look for good Universities in the countries of my assignment that share the same values with you and link you together”, he stated.
Ambassador Mkpuruka further used the opportunity to donate 200 bags of cement, as part of his contribution to the speedy development of infrastructure in the University. In support of the donation, Hon. Enyi C. Enyi who accompanied the envoy on the visit pledged a donation of 100 bags of cement while the Pro-chancellor/Chairman of Governing Council, Federal Polytechnic, Ado Ekiti, Chief Austin Edeze promised to provide water by sinking a borehole in the University. Recall that the envoy had earlier instituted an endowment for the best graduating student in mathematics in the University.

While receiving the Nigerian envoy, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Nwajiuba, noted that the University was showing evidence of seriousness in its academic activities, adding that people were beginning to take notice of it.

“We are working to build a University we can all be proud of. We are gradually showing evidence of seriousness”, he said.
The Vice-Chancellor further explained that the successes being achieved by the University were borne out f collective efforts of staff and partners. He maintained that the University is driven by what he termed “the AE-FUNAI Spirit” and the philosophy of “benefits with responsibility” which according to him have enabled staff to willingly pool their resources together in order to take the University to greater heights.
He equally noted that the University was breaking new grounds because both the Management and staff were on the same page, stressing that recently 26 programmes of the university received full accreditation from the National Universities Commission while in the Webometric Ranking of world Universities the institution is ranked 44 among over 200 tertiary institutions in Nigeria.
The highlight of the event was the decision of the Vice-Chancellor to channel the 300 bags of cement to the construction of the University Staff Children School, which he noted would commence academic activities in the next school session.

In implementing its decision to celebrate all those that have played major roles in the growth and development of the nascent institution, the Management of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, has named a major campus road linking its take-off site to the G. O. Chukwu (administrative) block after the immediate past executive governor of Ebonyi State, His Excellency, Chief Martin Nwancho Elechi.
This decision was made known by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Chinedum Nwajiuba, who noted that the young University which is barely 8 years old was established during the tenure of Elechi as the 2nd civilian governor of Ebonyi State. He explained that it was not a mistake that the University came into existence at that material time, adding that the former governor has continued to support the University in the drive to justify its establishment.

The Vice-Chancellor maintained that the decision was a collective one, geared towards recognizing those that have historical attachment to the University and those that are making contributions to speed up its growth and development.

Surprised by the unexpected gesture, the former governor who was on a visit to the University explained that his administration presented three places to the Federal government as potential sites for the University; however the team from the Federal Ministry of Education led by then Minister, Prof. Ruqayah Ahmed Rufai chose Ndufu-Alike.

He also thanked the University Management for the honour, adding that the accelerated infrastructural and academic development being witnessed in the University was testaments of the Vice-Chancellor’s development-oriented and selfless leadership.
“We are proud of what you are doing”, Chief Elechi concluded.

He further used the opportunity to pledge the sum of two hundred and fifty thousand (N250, 000) naira to support the ongoing infrastructural development in the University.

Chief Elechi is the 3rd person the University is honouring in this regard. Others were the pioneer Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Oye Ibidapo-Obe and Registrar, Mr. Gabriel Oko Chukwu whom the main Library and Administrative Block were named after respectively, in recognition of their pioneering development roles in the University.

…AS VC reaffirms commitment to the accreditation of all University Programmes
The Chairman of Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike Chapter, Comrade Emmanuel Chigbata has called on the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Chinedum Nwajiuba to consider running for political position at the expiration of his tenure.
The labour leader made the call recently at the University main auditorium during a celebration to mark the successful full accreditation of 26 academic programmes of the University by the National Universities Commission (NUC).

Chigbata had at the event noted that the University has received a new lease of life since Prof. Nwajiuba assumed duty as the 2nd substantive Vice-Chancellor of the University on 26th February, 2016. He maintained that under his watch, the University has witnessed massive infrastructural development, re-jigging of its academic activities to meet global best practices which underscored the accreditation of its programmes by the National Universities Commission, unparallel improvement in the welfare of staff and the provision of conducive and eco-friendly environment to promote teaching and learning.

Meanwhile the Vice-Chancellor had during the occasion reinstated his unalloyed commitment towards the growth and development of the University, stressing that before the expiration of his tenure all academic programmes of the institution would secure full accreditation from all the relevant government and professional bodies.

He explained that programmes under the Faculties of Education and Agriculture would be presented for accreditation this year. He therefore enjoined all staff to put their hands on deck to ensure that the University maintains its reputation as a serious-minded institution.

He also used the opportunity to express gratitude to staff and students, especially members of the Central Accreditation Committee, Deans and Heads of Academic Departments, Vice-Chancellor’s Special Accreditation Committee, Directorates of Academic Planning, Quality Assurance and Data-base Management for their untiring efforts which led to the success the University achieved in the last accreditation exercise.


He further assured that the spate of infrastructural development and academic expansion going on in the University would continue, adding that “better days are ahead” and “you aren’t seen anything yet.”

Concluding, the Union leader further noted that unlike many who see leadership as a means of feathering one’s nest, Prof. Nwajiuba, has judiciously and conscientiously utilized the meager resources accruing to the University to drive its growth and development, stressing that the Vice-Chancellor has proved himself as an astute manager of men and financial resources and urged him not to rest on his oars.


He maintained that the Vice-Chancellor is the type of leader Nigeria needs at this material time, where there is dearth of genuine leadership and appealed to him to consider joining partisan politics at the expiration of his tenure in order to arrest the worrisome degree of poverty and underdevelopment in the country, especially in his home state, Imo.

Recall that the University in 2014 before the coming of Nwajiuba presented 19 programmes to the NUC for accreditation. However, only two of the programmes were given full accreditation while the remaining 17 had interim accreditation status.

• As Minister of Science & Tech Commissions Chemical Engineering Laboratory
The Federal Government has promised to establish an Intellectual Property and Technology Transfer Office (IPPTO) at Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State.
This hint was dropped yesterday by the Honourable Minister of Science and Technology, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu during the inauguration of an upgraded Chemical Engineering Laboratory equipped through an industrial collaboration between the National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP) and PZ Cussons in the University.

Speaking at the event, the Minister noted that no nation can achieve sustainable economic development without Science, Technology and Innovation, adding that Universities have a huge role to play in this regard by embarking on production-led research.

He maintained that it was high time Nigeria emulated China, Japan, India and other nations who are taking their citizens out of poverty through research and innovation.
‘Industry is the home of innovation. Our interest in NOTAP is to promote research driven by industries
‘We want to see that inventions and research works of our Universities are turned into tangible products by industries and commercialized to grow the economy’, he stated.
The Minister further decried the use of alternative to practical in teaching students, stressing that without practical exposures students would only have head-knowledge which cannot engineer industrialization.
‘We want Nigeria to become a knowledge-based and innovative society. And I believe that the industry and the government will collaborate to achieving this noble goal’, the Minister said.
He also used the opportunity to appeal to industries to show more interest to research and innovation through collaborative efforts with universities to develop the capacities of the citizens, in order to jump-start the development of the Nigerian economy.
Also, speaking at the event, the Director- General of the National Office for Technological Acquisition and Promotion, Dr. Dan Azumi Ibrahim, noted that government’s funding of Universities in Nigeria was weak, hence the urgent need for collaborative efforts with industries to promote science, technology and innovation.
He explained that NOTAP is collaborating with the private sector to upgrade laboratories in Nigerian Universities in order to make available to them relevant equipment as the country moves from a resource-based to a knowledge – based economy.
He maintained that for the nation to achieve the dream, it must build the capacities of its citizens, improve its facilities and enunciate workable policies, adding that the Nigerian society cannot move to the next level without realizing the synergy between the three critical factors.

‘This country requires research centers that will engender research and development needed for its transformation.

‘The synergy between industries and researchers are of paramount importance especially now that Nigeria is in a hurry to develop.
‘Research and development go hand-in-hand and are pivotal to Nigeria Nigeria’s. This essentially why the Agency has been supporting and sponsoring qualified candidates in this regard’, he concluded.
The Managing Director/CEO PZ Cussons Nig. Plc, Mr. Christos Glannopoulos in his submission, affirmed that the commissioning of the upgraded chemical laboratory in the University marked another historic landmark in its partnership with NOTAP in their drive to promote quality education in Nigeria.
‘We are here today because we did it somewhere else like Calabar, Yola, Zaria and we know that what is good for others is also good for this part of Nigeria’, he said.
Earlier in his welcome remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Chinedum Nwajiuba, noted that the Upgraded Chemical Engineering Laboratory would improve the academic and research standings of the students and staff in the institution’s commitment towards grooming globally-competitive and practical-oriented scientists and engineers who will contribute to the development of the country in particular and the world at large.

He maintained that though the University is young; nevertheless it is global-minded and forward-looking, adding it takes research seriously.

“We have maintained that results of all research works sponsored by the University should not just adorn library shelves, but must be made available to strategic stakeholders relevant to the research.
“This has really galvanized research activities among academic staff of the University, enabling us also to provide critical data to government and industries to make informed decisions”, the Vice-Chancellor stated.
While thanking the Ministry of Science and Technology for their efforts geared towards jump-starting Nigerian economic development through Science, Technology and Innovation, and NOTAP and PZ Cusson for upgrading the Chemical Engineering laboratory of the University; the Vice-Chancellor also used the opportunity to call for more support and collaborations from agencies of the federal government and the organized private sector for speedy development of the University.

The Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike Women’s Association (AE-FUNAI WA), an umbrella body of all female staff of the University under the leadership of Dr. (Mrs.) Chinyere Nwajiuba, recently organized an end-of-the-year party for children of staff and members of the University host community.
The event which was a first of its kind in the history of the University was geared towards celebrating love among staff and their children and the promotion of synergy and camaraderie in the institution.

Witnessed by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Chinedum Nwajiuba, the event which was held in a convivial atmosphere drew tens of Children within and outside the University environment, who danced to various scintillating tunes in company of their peers, parents and some members of the University Management.

Addressing the children, Dr. (Mrs.) Nwajiuba expressed her deep love for the children, especially in their academic growth and development, noting that the association was on the verge of starting the University’s crèche, nursery and primary schools soon.
She admonished them to always be of good conduct, respectful and loyal to their parents and elders so as to attract generosity and deeper love from them and the society at large.

“Be of good conduct, be obedient and work closely with your parents as this will endear you to them.
“Never misbehave but ensure that you always read your books so that you will be better children in the society
“Remember the scripture that children should obey their parents so that their days will be long”, she stated.

Highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of prizes to the best brains on recitations and current affairs, meant to encourage and develop the children’s mental abilities. The Vice-Chancellor also danced with the children to their admiration

In line with the avowed commitment of the Vice-Chancellor of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Professor Chinedum Nwajiuba, to ensure that all academic programmes of the institution has full accreditation before the expiration of his tenure; the University recently hosted the National Universities Commission’s accreditation panels who were on hand to assess its programmes.

During the visits which started on Monday, 22nd October and ended on Wednesday, 14th November, 2018, the University presented 28 programmes for accreditation. They include Accounting, Business Administration, English Language, History, Music, French, Igbo and Philosophy. Others were Anatomy, Fine and Applied Arts, Chemical Engineering, Electrical/Electronic Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering and Civil Engineering. Among the programmes that were also presented for accreditation were Applied Geo-Physics, Biochemistry, Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics, Economics, Political Science, Psychology, Sociology, Mass Communication, Criminology and Security Studies.

The Result of the accreditation exercise which was released recently by the National Universities Commission (NUC) shows that 26 of the programmes received full accreditation status while Mechanical Engineering and Mechatronics Engineering had interim accreditation. This rare and historic achievement is arguably a first of its kind in the history of Nigerian University system. It is also a bold testament to the commitment and determination of the Nwajiuba’s administration in its drive to reposition the University to meet global academic best practices. The feat is made more poignant taking into cognizance of the fact that 17 of the fully accredited programmes had interim status before the arrival of the Vice-Chancellor in 2016, which means that the programmes would have been closed if not for the extra-ordinary feat.

The historic achievement is not surprising as the NUC accreditation panels had during their visit to the University commended the Vice-Chancellor for the massive Improvement in the institution’s infrastructure and academic activities as well as in the provision of critical teaching and learning equipment compared to what were obtainable when the commission visited two years ago. They maintained that the University had made bold steps in the various programmes presented for accreditation and urged Professor Nwajiuba and his team to sustain the tempo, as academic excellence is not a destination but an on-going process.
While expressing his profound happiness on the good news in his office, the Vice-Chancellor, stated that accreditation exercise was an important peer review and quality assurance process for the University which is meant to help it improve the quality of its academic activities, not only to meet the minimum benchmark set by the NUC but also meet global best practices. He further explained that the university was doing its best in the area of quality assurance, noting that a directorate has been created in that regard.

He also assured the University stakeholders, especially students of the two programmes that had interim accreditation that he would not rest on his oars until the needful was done. He maintained that all necessary academic facilities, equipment and staffing would be put in place to ensure that both Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering Programmes receive NUC full accreditation in 2020.
This cheering news underscores the fact that true and astute leadership is all about solving problems and creating opportunities for excellence

Assessors at the ongoing 3rd National Science, Technology and Innovation Expo, 2019 taking place at Okpara Square, Enugu, have commended the research team of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, for their inventions and innovative products, which they showcased at the national exhibition.
At the event which started on Monday, 12th January, 2019, the University presented five research works of its scholars for assessment. While assessing the inventions and products, the team of assessors also commended the institution for its strong research culture and innovation, which they noted has placed it in high pedestals among Nigerian higher institutions.
The works which were showcased at the event include: “VOG Tea: A Blood Glucose Modulatory Tea” produced from three culinary herbs, vernonia amygdalina, Occimum gratissimum and Gongronena latitolium by Prof. Chukwunonso C.C Ejike. The tea is useful in reducing the risk of developing pre-diabetes or progressing from the pre-diabetic state to the diabetic state. Consequently, the expectation is that those who drink the tea regularly, especially if they have a high DM risk score, may be able to hold the disease at bay, thereby avoiding the morbidity and mortality that comes from it. Also, Dr. Emmanuel Nwaeze’s work “A control strategy for minimizing carbon dioxide emission: A study of power generators in Nigeria”, is designed to minimize the emission of industrial CO2 into the atmosphere, and thereby reducing green-house effects and climate change side-effects.

Similarly, a work by Dr. Ihuoma Anyanwu on “Bio-manufacturing: Production of Biofuel and Novel Fertilizers from Organic Wastes”, is meant to provide alternative energy sources and also to produce organic fertilizers for soil amendment and plant growth through waste conversion. More so, Mr. Thomas Ojonugwa Daniel’s research on “Electric double layer field effect transistor using thin film semiconductor channel layer and honey gate dielectric” is an innovative means of providing a societal need for an alternative semiconductor channel layer material and gate dielectric for use in an electric double layer field effect transistor alongside the use of honey. The work addresses the problem of the need for an alternative transistor semiconductor device and the problem of scaling down the circuit size. In addition, the research on “Developing a natural oil supplement from coconut meat to prevent heart disease, high blood pressure cholesterol and organ damage in cancer patients”, by Dr. Ademola Famurewa, is targeted at preventing the health challenge of debilitation side effects of anticancer drugs currently being experienced by cancer patients in hospitals. It is also being evaluated for the prevention of high blood pressure cholesterol that leads to heart diseases.

While extolling the potential societal high-impact value of the works, the assessors, also advised the University researchers to ensure their inventions were immediately patented to make it really their own.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 5 days event, the Minister of Science and Technology, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, noted that Science, Technology and Innovation were needed to eradicate malaria, sickle cell, malnutrition and other kinds of challenges confronting the nation. He also used the opportunity to call on investors to partner with inventors and researchers to translate their works into tangible products and services.

He further stressed that the nation was moving from oil dependency to knowledge-based economy through the help science, technology and innovation.
“We are moving our dear nation in a new direction different from the old ways of doing things. We are moving in a new direction that is based on knowledge that is driven with innovation”, he stated.
Declaring the exhibition open, President Muhammadu Buhari who was represented by the Secretary of Government of the Federation, Mr. Boss Mustapha, explained that the Expo offers new opportunities to government to break new grounds, while adding that inventors and researchers are opportune to showcase their products and inventions in the event.

He assured that government would not relate in equipping Nigeria with appropriate technologies to drive its development and attain a prosperous and stable future, noting that the application of science provides practical solutions to problems facing humanity.
Dignitaries from all works of life that included the Vice-Chancellor and Deputy Vice-Chancellor of AE-FUNAI, Prof. Chinedum Nwajiuba and Prof. Philip Omoke graced the occasion.

The Vice-Chancellor also took time to visit the pavilion of the University where its works were displayed for assessment and review by the public, which boosted the confidence and morale of the institution’s research team led by the Director of Research and Development, Prof. Dennis Akoh.

Recall that at the 2nd edition of the Expo held at Abuja in 2018, the University came 3rd in the category of tertiary institutions in Nigeria.

In a bid to make Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi state, a global-minded and forward-looking institution where lecturers and students are properly honed to meet the demands of 21st century education system, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Chinedum Nwajiuba has promised to establish a Centre for Teaching and Learning in the University.
Professor Nwajiuba made this known recently during the 3rd convocation lecture of the University. While responding to some of the salient issues raised in the lecture which was delivered by the Executive Secretary, African Capacity Building Foundation, Harare, Zimbabwe, Prof. Emmanuel Nnadozie themed: ”Fulfilling Education’s Promise in Africa: The Role of University” , he noted that teaching and learning is a two- way process where students learn from lecturers and vice versa, adding that a proposal for the establishment of the Centre for teaching and learning would be sent to the University Senate for approval.

Speaking further, the Vice-Chancellor noted that the Centre which should come on stream before the end of the 1st quarter of 2019 would be geared towards achieving some noble objectives which include; supporting AE-FUNAI staff with opportunities for continuing professional development and building internal capacity on mentoring and peer review; offering advice on matters pertaining to the areas of curriculum development and curriculum innovation, promoting and supporting quality teaching, to support evidence- based, innovative and sustainable strategic program enhancement initiatives. Other objectives of the Centre according to him also entail contributing to AE-FUNAI’s research agenda by encouraging staff research initiatives to enhance teaching and learning and engaging with international institutions to give AE-FUNAI curriculum and international perspective on innovative pedagogies to improve staff teaching and enhance students’ experience.

The Vice-Chancellor further maintained that though lecturers were undoubtedly experts in their various fields, nevertheless the vast majority of them, especially those in the physical science and business fields, lack effective teaching skills, hence the imperativeness of establishing the Centre to bridge the gap. He stressed that attention should be paid to pedagogy where lecturers are trained to be experts in the theory and practice of teaching, learning and assessment. He stated that when this is done, the University would be able to produce world-class students that are globally-competitive.
The Centre will have the responsibilities of specifically providing workshops and courses on all areas of academic practice; providing support services to lecturers and students in study and earning skills and peer tutorial programmes; initiating of new and innovative techniques to facilitate teaching and learning and retraining of staff to master adequate teaching and learning skills.
To access the 3rd Convocation lecture, please log on to www. funai.edu.ng/research/funai seminar series

The Vice-Chancellor of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Professor Chinedum has reaffirmed his irrevocable commitment to the growth and development of the University.
He made this known yesterday during a prayer session at the Senate Chamber to herald the New Year. Witnessed by Principal Officers, Deans, Directors and Heads of Units, the prayer session was characterized with praise and worship as well as prayers for the University community for a successful 2019.
While speaking at the event, the Vice-Chancellor thanked the staff for their various contributions towards the uplightment of the University in 2018, enjoining them to breast up to the challenges of the New Year. He further noted that great things would happen in the University in 2019, stressing that he was full of positive expectations.

Professor Nwajiuba also maintained that the University was in a period where its image must be properly shaped for it to be respected as a reputable institution among comity of Universities, charging members of staff to take their jobs seriously to make the dream a reality. He further called on staff to be responsible and responsive in the discharge of their duties.

Enumerating some of the achievements of the University in 2018, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic, Professor Sunday Elom noted that the institution made giant strides in terms of infrastructural development and academic expansion. He insisted that the University under the visionary leadership of the Vice-Chancellor is on the right track to greatness. He mentioned that the construction of over 4 kilometres of asphalt roads, completion of Faculties of Engineering and Agriculture buildings, presentation of 28 academic programmes for NUC Accreditation, equipping of science laboratory by NOTAP/PZ Cusson, graduation of the 3rd set students and holding of 3rd convocation ceremony were some of the landmark achievements in 2018.
Earlier in a brief word of exhortation by the Director, Centre for Entrepreneurship and Employability, Dr. Makua Ojide, taken from the book of Mathew, chapter 5 verse 3, staff were admonished to remain focused on their purpose of being in the University, adding that as salt they should not lose their taste in the discharge of their responsibilities, especially as they relate with students.

He also encouraged staff to strive to make positive impact in their various departments in order to support the relentless efforts of the Vice-Chancellor geared towards taking the university to greater heights. He further explained that a University is a factory; however the quality of its product, according to him, depends on the competence and attitude of staff, whose responsibilities are to shape the products. He therefore prayed that staff should not shy away from their responsibilities in the New Year but put in their best for the growth and development of the University

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The Chancellor of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, HRM Oba Michael Aremu Adedotun Gbadebo CFR, Okukenu IV, the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland has inaugurated a Mini Park conceptualized and developed by a staff of the University, Mrs. Ifenyinwa Adebayo.

Inaugurating the garden as part of the just-concluded 3rd convocation ceremony of the University, Oba Gbadebo noted that it would serve as a relaxing place for students, stressing also that it would add to the aesthetic beauty of the campus.

On his part, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Chinedum Nwajiuba thanked Mrs. Adebayo who is of the Horticulture Unit, Directorate of Physical Planning, Works and Services, for her thoughtfulness which culminated in developing the park. He explained that the park would provide an avenue for staff and students to relax especially in the evening, after the day’s work and academic activities.

The Vice-Chancellor further encouraged other members of staff to emulate her by contributing to the development of the University in their own ways.

Speaking after the project was inaugurated, Mrs. Adebayo noted that the mini park has three structures; an eagle, a water fountain and a food bunch. She maintained that the eagle which is situated on a globe represents the University totem while the water fountain containing two fish- with the small one feeding water to the big one signifies the regenerative nature of knowledge and the food bunch represents the different courses the University offers.
She explained that the park was conceptualized and developed as her final year Higher National Diploma (HND) project in the Department of Horticulture and Landscaping, Federal College of Agriculture, Ishiagu, Ebonyi State.

Adebayo further thanked the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Nwajiuba for approving that the garden be built in the University, even as she expressed her gratitude to the Head of Department, Horticulture and Landscaping, Federal College of Agriculture, Ishiagu, Mr. Balogun Rasheed Babatunde and her Project Supervisor, Mr. Ifeanyi Ivoke for agreeing that the project be situated in Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State.

Concluding, she added that soil analysis was carried out in the park to determine the type of trees to be planted in the park

As part of the programme of activities to mark the 3rd convocation ceremony of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, the member representing Obowo/Ihite Uboma/Ehime Mbano Federal Constituency in the National Assembly Hon. Chike Okafor yesterday, led other stakeholders in the Health sector that included the Executive Director of the National Primary Healthcare Agency, Dr. Faisal Shuaib to commission a type-two primary health facility and staff quarters in the University.
The construction of the primary health facility which is meant for disease prevention in the University community and its environs was facilitated by Hon. Okafor, as part of his contribution to promote total wellness among staff and students as well as members of the University host community.

Meanwhile, six detached bungalows of 2-bed room each were also inaugurated by the honourable member. The bungalows which would serve as staff quarters were geared towards making the University a virtual community where staff and students live, work and interact together as one big family. The construction of the buildings was facilitated by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Administration, Professor Philip Omoke.

Speaking on his motivation for the project, Okafor noted that he facilitated the construction of the health centre in the University to support the developmental strides of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Chinedum Nwajiuba, whom he referred to as a very passionate and committed individual, with long lists of achievements as an academic, community leader and administrator.
He maintained that three of such facilities were also constructed in his federal constituency and thanked the Executive Director of the National Primary Healthcare Agency for ensuring that the projects were completed on schedule.
He also assured that the health facility would be equipped, as it has been captured in the 2018 national health budget.

Shuaib in his submission advised the staff of the University Health Centre to ensure that the facility was used strictly for disease prevention, stressing that it is a type-two health facility and should not be used for curative measures. He was represented at the event by the Director of the Agency in charge of Southeast, Dr. E. O. Nwanze.

Earlier in his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Nwajiuba thanked Hon. Okafor for his large heart taking into cognizance that the University is not part of his constituency. He noted that it was only God that could have used him to play a unique part in the development of the University.

The Vice-Chancellor further used the opportunity to invite other good-spirited and philanthropic individuals and organizations to invest in the University, adding that the institution is yearning for such support.

The highpoint of the event was the conferring of a special AE-FUNAI honour on Hon. Chike Okafor by the University Management, for his selfless service to humanity

AE-FUNAI TURNS-OUT 355 GRADUATES, HONOURS ALAKE OF EGBALAND, FORMER MINISTER AT 3RD CONVOCATION CEREMONY
Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, has turned-out 355 graduates at its 3rd convocation ceremony held on Tuesday, 18th December 2018, of which 15 of them emerged with First Class Honours in their various fields.
This was made known by the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Professor Chinedum Nwajiuba while delivering his address at the convocation arena.
“There are three hundred and fifty-five (355) graduands being celebrated today. Last year, at a similar event, we awarded degrees to two hundred and forty-seven (247) graduands, while in 2016 we had 124 pioneer graduates.

“ Of these three hundred and fifty-five (355) graduands, fifteen (15) emerged with the First Class Honours, One hundred and eighty-eight (188) with the Second Class Honours (Upper Division), One hundred and forty-five (145) with the Second Class Honours (Lower Division), and Seven (7) with the Third Class”, the Vice-Chancellor stated
Giving a breakdown of the graduands by faculties, the Vice-Chancellor further stated: ‘“AE-FUNAI is on an upward trajectory. The three hundred and fifty-five (355) graduands are being awarded Bachelor’s degrees as follows: Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, 62; Faculty of Humanities, 44; Faculty of Management and Social Sciences, 148; and Faculty of Science, 101.”

Meanwhile, the University also at the event honoued the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, HRM Oba Michael Aremu Adedotun Gbadebo CFR and a former Minister of Education and Health, Professor Ihechukwu Mmadubike with Honorary Doctoral Degrees of Management and Law respectively for their exemplary contributions to the advancement of education in Nigeria

“For the first time in the history of our young university, we shall confer two Honorary Doctoral degrees. The Senate of our university resolved to honour our Chancellor, HRM Oba Michael Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, the Alake of Egbaland and Professor Ihechukwu Madubuike”, Nwajiuba noted.
Nwajiuba also used the event to remind the Ebonyi State Government of the matter of land owners who still live within the University campus and frequently destroy its properties, thus hampering the development of the institution.
“Our Faculty of Agriculture has suffered frequent and wanton destruction of its crops on farms used for teaching and research. Contractors working on roads and buildings have also faced resistance. We are pleading that this responsibility of resettling the residents be discharged with dispatch”, he stressed.
Bemoaning the poor financial state of the University, the Vice-Chancellor further called on investors to partner the University in its drive to quicken its spate of development, and thanked all those that have contributed to her development.
“The Federal Government cannot develop this university alone. In addition, the university Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) is too low to address our myriad of challenges. The university has therefore taken to inviting all and sundry to contribute to her development”, he said.

Delivering his own speech, the Visitor to the University, President Muhammadu Buhari noted that Universities have critical roles to play in nation building, adding that Tertiary Institutions must justify their establishment through excellent production-led research activities, innovative ideas and empowering the youth with the right mental attitude, functional knowledge and sellable skills to be globally-completive, and contribute to our national development.

“Nigerian Universities should ensure that beyond academics, students are provided the capacity to discover their innate qualities and use same to impact positively on the global economy”, the President state.

Represented by the Deputy Executive Secretary, National Universities Commission, Bar. Victor Onuoha, the President maintained that his administration would continue to ensure increased and timely funding and provision of specific infrastructure in our institutions through the annual appropriations as well as other interventions, including the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) and NEEDs Assessment Projects.
” This administration is not unmindful of the fact that funding for Education may not be adequate, largely due to dwindling resources and other competing national needs, but assures Nigerians that it will continue to do the needful, within the limited available resources”, he noted.
He also used the opportunity to urge the Academic Staff of Union of Universities (ASUU) to call-off the on-going industrial action in the overall national interest.
The highlight of the 3rd convocation ceremony was the award of academic prizes to outstanding graduands, where Miss Chukwuekezie Nnenna of the Department of Biology/Microbiology/Biotechnology received the Vice-Chancellor’s prize for the overall best graduand and an additional three other prizes.

ASMEDA HONOURS AE-FUNAI VC
The Association of Specialists Medical Doctors in Academics (ASMEDA) has honoured the Vice-Chancellor of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Professor Chinedum Nwajiuba with an Excellence Service Award for his extraordinary achievements in the areas of academic and infrastructural development in the University.
While presenting the award to him recently, the National President of the association, Professor M. B. Tanko Umar, noted that the Vice-Chancellor has shown leadership in the way the ship of the University has been stirred since his assumption of office over two years ago.

He maintained that under his watch, the University has witnessed massive academic expansion and infrastructural development, urging him to maintain the tempo in order to carve a niche for the University.
Represented by the Ebonyi State Chapter Chairman, Dr. Obrien John Chukwu, the national president also used the opportunity to thank the Vice-Chancellor for his support to the association, especially for allowing the University to host its National Executive Council meeting in November, 2018.

He explained that the association is made up of specialist medical doctors who are teaching in various institutions of higher learning in the country, and pleaded with the Vice-Chancellor to support its members working in the University in the area of capacity building.

Expressing his gratitude to the association for the award, Professor Nwajiuba assured them of his continued support, adding that the University is interested in building the capacities of its workforce to make them productive and relevant in a globalized economy.

The Vice Chancellor, Professor Chinedum Uzoma Nwajiuba, on behalf of Governing Council, Senate and Congregation cordially invites the general public to the 3rd convocation ceremony of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State scheduled to hold on Tuesday, 18th December, 2018.
PROGRAMME OF EVENTS
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2018: Pre- Convocation Press Conference by the Vice-chancellor
Venue: senate chamber
Time: 12 noon

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2018: Research Fair
Venue: Quadrangle, Opposite the Old Library Complex
Time: 11: 00am

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018: Juma’t Service
Venue: Old University Auditorium
Time: 3:00 pm

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2018: Thanksgiving/Interdenominational Church Service
Venue: Main University Auditorium
Time: 10:00 am

MONDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2018:
(a) CONVOCATION LECTURE
Lecturer: Professor Emmanuel Nnadozie
Executive Director
African Capacity Building Foundation
Harare, Zimbabwe
Topic: “Fulfilling Education’s Promise in Africa: The Role of the University.”
Venue: Main University Auditorium
Time: 11:00 am

(b) Commissioning of the new University Health Centre by Chief Chike Okafor, Honourable Member representing Obowo/ Ihite Uboma/Ehite Mbano Federal Constituency in the National Assembly
Venue: Project Site
Time: 2:30 pm

(c) CONVOCATION VARIETY SHOW: Command Performance, Vice-Chancellor’s Get-Together with Graduands and Award Night
Venue: Old University Auditorium
Time: 3:00 pm

(d) CHANCELLOR’S NIGHT/CHRISTMASS CANTATA
Venue: Osborn La Palm Resort, Abakaliki
Time: 7 pm

TUESDAY DECEMBER 18, 2018: Admission to First Degrees, Presentation of Academic Prizes and Conferment of Honorary Degrees
Venue: Convocation Arena
Time: 11: 00am

NOTICE FOR ALL GRADUANDS
Graduands are requested to take note of the following:
1. It is mandatory for all graduands to pay for the following items irrespective of attendance to the convocation ceremony:
a. Order of Proceedings – N1, 500
b. Academic Gowns – Hiring (N3, 500) while graduands who want to purchase the gown shall pay N20,000
c. Processing of Certificate – N2, 000
2. Academic gowns shall be collected at the Faculties
3. Graduands must present evidence of payment before they can collect convocation materials
4. Collection of convocation materials shall commence on Wednesday, 12th December, 2018
5. All hired gowns should be returned to the collection points not later than Wednesday, 19th December, 2018. Failure to return the gown on time shall attract a fine of N1, 500 daily while damage or outright loss of the gown shall attract a penalty of N20, 000.
6. All graduands are to assemble in front of the G. O. Chukwu Block by 10: 00 am for commencement of procession.
7. It is compulsory for all grauands to participate in the academic procession and to put on the approved academic regalia.

Note: All payments should be made through remita to Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike.



RSVP
Professor Sunday O. Elom
Chairman, Senate Ceremonials Committee
08032686617

UMAHI FLAGS-OFF CONSTRUCTION OF CIVIL ENGINEERING WORKSHOP AT AE-FUNAI
The Executive Governor of Ebonyi State, His Excellency, Chief, Engr. Dave Nweze Umahi, has flagged-off the construction of a Civil Engineering workshop at Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State), as part of his contribution to the promotion of Engineering education in the State.
The workshop which was donated by the governor to stimulate the development of engineering education in Ebonyi State and the Southeast geopolitical zone of Nigeria, is geared towards empowering students with the relevant hands-on skills to contribute meaningfully in a knowledge-based economy.

Speaking at the foundation laying ceremony, the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof Chinedum Nwajiuba praised Umahi for his exemplary leadership, noting that he was the person that initially muted the idea to establish a Faculty of Engineering in the University and thanked him for donating a Civil Engineering workshop.

The Vice-Chancellor maintained that the donation by the Governor was significant and could be viewed as a service to God and humanity. He further stated that the gesture has been noted and documented in the Faculty of Engineering’s handbook as a show of appreciation and honour to him.
He also stressed that the University’s Engineering Faculty would eventually turn-out to the best in the country because of the massive investment in latest and supersonic equipment coupled with its 21st century academic philosophy meant to ensure Sustainable Engineering Education.

“We have engineering facilities and equipment which older Universities do not have. We are building a second to none Faculty of Engineering in the Nigerian university system. We’re going to produce engineers that are practical-oriented with the relevant hands-on skills”, he stated.

He further stated that one of the defining features of the Civil Engineering workshop donated by the governor was that students were gaining valuable practical experiences as they participate in its construction.
While flagging-off the project, Umahi noted that education was very strategic and must be accorded the right support, adding it was because of the premium his government placed on education that made it to award and execute the road leading to the University, in spite of the fact that it is a federal government-owned institution.

The governor who was represented by the Commissioner of Education, Rt. Hon. Sabinus Nwankwegu, also promised more support to the University and extolled the Vice-Chancellor for the massive infrastructural and academic development the University is witnessing under his watch.
“You have not seen anything yet. He will continue to support the University. If you have any challenging issue, don’t forget to contact him”, he enthused.
Other dignitaries that graced the occasion were the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Higher Education, Prof. Adaeze Nwuzor, Dr. Tina Nwaeze and members of the University Management among others

PG FRENCH SCHOLARSHIP: 7 AE-FUNAI STAFF TO DEPART FOR FRANCE
In line with the vision of the Vice-Chancellor, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Professor Chinedum Nwajiuba to train a critical mass of scholars who are functionally bilingual, experts in their various disciplines and with the right attitude to excel in a globalized economy, the institution recently organized a send-forth for 7 of its academic staff who will be leaving for France for their post-graduate studies under the AE-FUNAI/French Collaboration.

Presenting the beneficiaries to the Vice-Chancellor in his office, the Director, AE FUNAI-French Centre, Dr. Nnenna Nwosu-Nworuh noted that the efforts geared towards ensuring that the University attains global academic competitiveness through the collaboration with the French Government, is yielding enormous dividends. As a result, 7 academic staff of the institution would be departing for French Universities on Tuesday, 4th December, 2018 in pursuit of their Master’s and Doctoral degrees, making it 34 numbers of academic staff of the University that have benefitted from the scheme

“Today, these 7 staff will bring the total number of scholars in the programme to 34”, she stated, adding that 3 more scholars would be leaving for France in February 2019.
Represented by the Director of Research and Development, Professor Dennis Akoh, she further noted that the need to have a good number of international bilingual scholars in the university has been the driving force propelling the training of some lecturers in French universities, who will in turn bring their international experience and exposure to bear in the institution.
While biding the staff farewell, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Nwajiuba stressed that the University was geared towards becoming the only institution with a strong French culture in the gulf of Guinea.
He maintained that the University also wants to have a critical mass of scholars who can teach in both English and French languages, which in his words would give the institution an edge over others in the West African sub-region.

He also vowed to ensure the speedy internationalization of the University by recruiting and offering admission to staff and students from neighboring French-speaking countries like Cameroun, Togo, Benin, Chad, Niger and Equatorial Guinea.

Professor Nwajiuba further used the opportunity to urge the staff not to lose the consciousness of the fact that the world is driven by knowledge and ideas, calling on them to be good ambassadors of the University even as he equally advised them to always display the right attitude, robust knowledge and competence in their various disciplines in order to win the heart and support of their supervisors.
The staff who are the 3rd batch beneficiaries of the French collaboration include: Agu George A, Omoniyi Gbenga, Nkitnam Elijah, Jayeola Folorunsho, Igwe Monday, Chinedu Onyekpere and Lucky Nte.

NOTAP TO ESTABLISH IPTT OFFICE AT AE-FUNAI
The National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP), Abuja is to establish an Intellectual Property and Technology Transfer Office (IPTTO) at Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State in its drive to encourage and promote local research and scientific innovations in Nigeria.
This was revealed yesterday when the Director General of the agency, Dr. Dan Azunmi Mohammed and the Chief Executive Officer (Africa) of PZ Cusson, Mr. Christos Giannopoulos visited the University to inspect a scientific laboratory that was equipped through their collaborative efforts.

“The product of the Vice-Chancellor’s astute visit to NOTAP on 4th May, 2018 has led to the approval for the establishment of an Intellectual Property and Technology Transfer Office in the University”, the Director-General stated.

He noted that through the NOTAP – Industry Initiative, the agency is bridging the gap between theory and practice in Nigerian Universities through the provision of vital research equipment in collaboration with multinational companies like PZ Cusson.

The Director-General who was represented at the event by the Deputy Director, Consultancy Services, Mr. Dagogo George maintained that government cannot finance developmental projects alone, hence, the need for private sector participation.

While commending the untiring efforts of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Chinedum Nwajiuba towards the development of the University, he further stated that through the NOTAP-Industry Initiative, they have been able to equip many Scientific and engineering laboratories at different Universities in Nigeria, including the one located at AE-FUNAI.
Also, speaking during the visit, the Chief Executive Officer, Africa, PZ Cusson, Mr. Giannopoulos congratulated the University for been one of the beneficiaries of the synergy between the organization and NOTAP, adding that the equipped laboratory has opened ways for the country to look inwards by tapping the numerous potential that abound among Nigerian academics.
“Through academic/industry partnership, we want to solve the challenges facing the Nigerian economy
We are also prepared to cooperate with you to make it a huge success in the University”, he stated.
The PZ helmsman who was represented by the Head, Research and Development, Africa, Mr. Uchenna Nwakanma, noted that they were also ready to partner the University in order to translate its research works into industrial products to support the local contents of policy of government.

Earlier in his welcome remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Professor Nwajiuba thnked NOTAP for approving the establishment of an Intellectual Property and Technology Transfer Office in the University, stressing that it would enable the institution’s researchers and academics to turn their research works into concrete realities.

The Vice-Chancellor also praised the Management of PZ Cusson for their pioneering role in upgrading technologies in the Nigerian tertiary institutions, which the University has benefited from.
Represented by his deputy, Professor Sunday Elom, the Vice-Chancellor stressed that the University was interested in translating the research findings of its academics into industrial products, and thanked NOTAP for trying to bridge the knowledge gap in the Nigerian education system.
“We are not just interested in having our research works in book shelves and academic journals
“It is in the heart beat of this University to translate our research findings into tangible products and services
“We also wish to thank NOTAP for trying to bridge the intellectual gap in the educational system”, he concluded.
The guests later had a technical session with a team of researchers from the University in order to discover possible areas of partnership.
The highpoint of the visit was the inspection of the equipped laboratory.