₦airaland Forum

https://funai.edu.ng/news/advertisement-for-2024-2025-academic-session-post-utme-direct-entry-screening-2/

This is to inform the general public that registration for the 2024/2025 academic session
Post-Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (Post-UTME)/Direct Entry Screening of Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike, (AE-FUNAI), Ebonyi State, shall commence on Monday 22nd July, 2024and ends on Friday 23rd August, 2024.
Interested candidates who must have scored 150 and above in the 2024UTME and who made Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State their first choice institution in their application for admission in the 2024 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) are qualified to apply. However, candidates are advised to check the minimum cut off points for the respective programmes listed below to guide their choices.
AVAILABLE PROGRAMMES
S/N FACULTY PROGRAMME MINIMUM SCREENING SCORE
1 Faculty of Agriculture 1. Agribusiness and Management

150
2. Agriculture (Agricultural Economics and Extension, Animal Science, Crop Science, Soil Science)
3. Fisheries and Aquaculture
2 Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences 1. Anatomy
180
2. Physiology
3 Faculty of Education 1. Education/English and Literary Studies







150
2. Educational Management
3. Guidance and Counselling
4. Biology Education
5. Chemistry Education
6. Mathematics Education
7. Physics Education
8. Physical and Health Education
9. Agricultural Science and Education
10. Business Education
11. Computer Science Education
12. Economics Education
13. Technology Education with options in:
(i) Mechanical Technology Education
(ii) Building Technology Education
(iii) Woodwork Technology Education
(iv) Electrical and Electronics Technology Education
(v) Automobile Technology Education
4 Faculty of Engineering and Technology 1. Chemical Engineering
160
2. Civil Engineering
3. Electrical/Electronics Engineering
4. Mechanical Engineering
5. Mechatronics Engineering
5 Faculty of Environmental Sciences 1. Architecture

150
2. Fine and Applied Arts
3. Geography
6 Faculty of Humanities 1. Theatre Arts 160
2. English



150
3. French
4. Linguistics
5. Linguistics/French
6. Linguistics/Igbo
7. Igbo
8. Music
9. History and Strategic Studies
10. Philosophy
11. Religion
7 Faculty of Law 1. Law 220
8 Faculty of Management Sciences 1. Accountancy

160

2. Banking and Finance
3. Business Administration
4. Public Administration 150
9 Faculty of Biological Sciences 1. Biology
150
2. Biotechnology
3. Biochemistry
160
4. Microbiology
10 Faculty of Physical Sciences 1. Computer Science 160
2. Chemistry


150
3. Mathematics
4. Statistics
5. Geology
6. Applied Geophysics
7. Physics
11 Faculty of Social Sciences 1. Mass Communication
180
2. Criminology and Security Studies
3. Economics
160
4. Political Science
5. Sociology
150
6. Psychology
12 College of Medical Sciences 1. Medicine and Surgery 220
13. Faculty of Health and Allied Sciences 1. Nursing Science 200
2. Medical Laboratory Science 180
3. Human Nutrition and Dietetics 160
NOTE: There shall be no Direct Entry admission into Medicine & Surgery, Law and Nursing Sc.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
• Prospective candidates who did not choose AE-FUNAI as their first choice institution but wish to study in AE-FUNAI are eligible to apply for PUTME. However, such candidates MUST effect Change of Institution/Course to AE-FUNAI on the JAMB Portal on or before Friday 23rd August, 2024.This is also applicable to Direct Entry (DE) candidates.
• Candidates for Medicine and Surgery, Law and Nursing Scienceprogrammes must have obtained their O’Level Results at one sitting only.
• Candidates should be guided by the UTME and O’level subject requirements as are available on the University website.

1. Prospective candidates who may wish to register for the Post-UTME through the
AE-FUNAI ICT Centres, should visit the:

* University CBT Centre at Zone A in the University Campus
OR
* Centre for Educational Services (JUPEB/Pre-Degree School),
Aguogboriga Estate, Abakaliki.
2. During registration, candidates are advised to use GSM numbers that are easily accessible to them. This is important for fast and easy communication.
3. Candidates should note that at any point of the screening and admission exercise, if any false information is discovered, such candidate’s application would automatically be disqualified.
MODE OF PAYMENT AND REGISTRATION PROCEDURE
Eligible candidates are required to pay a processing fee of N2,000 only.
• To register, follow the steps outlined below:
• Visit the University website: www.funai.edu.ng, go to ADMISSIONS at the top menu
• Click on 2024/2025UTME Admission Screening OR 2024/2025 Direct Entry Admission Screening
• Enter your “JAMB Registration Number” and click on LOGIN
• Select your payment mode (Generate Remita Retrieval Reference Number).
• Proceed to any bank for your payment with your Remita number.
• Return to the Application page and enter your “JAMB Registration Number” again.
• Proceed with the completion of the form
• Submit your application.
• Print out your acknowledgement slip.
MODE OF SCREENING:
The screening mode for the 2024/2025 academic session PUTME shall be through the process of internal screening of candidates results. There shall not be PUTME Computer Based Test (CBT).
All candidates are requested to ensure that their O/Level and Direct Entry results are uploaded on JAMB Central Admissions Processing System(CAPS) on or before Friday 23rd August, 2024. Any PUTME application without O’level/ A level result upload on JAMB CAPS will not be processed.
For Enquiries: Call these phone numbers between 9.00 am and 5.00 pm, Mon. – Fri.only.
08038099920, 07031810065 and 08038678738
Signed:

Barr. Titus Ifeanyi Igwe
Registrar

The Director General of World Trade Organisation (WTO), Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala has welcomed 3 students of the Faculty of Law, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi and their staff advisor, who are representing Nigeria at the Nelson Mandela World Human Rights Moot Court Competition holding in Geneva, Switzerland.

The students; Okechukwu Sharon Amarachi, Okeosisi Amarachi Miracle and Chukwuzihem Faith Morka, had qualified to represent Nigeria in Geneva in the earlier Competition held virtually in June 2024, under the guidance of their staff advisor Mr Oguguo Paschal.

In a post in her X handle, Dr. Okonjo- Iweala shared the picture of the students' visit to her office in Geneva with the following write-up "A visit from four Nigerian students who made it for the Nelson Mandela World Human Rights Moot Court Competition in Geneva. Congratulations to Oguguo Paschal, Okechukwu Sharon Amarachi, Okeosisi Amarachi Miracle, and Chukwuzihem Faith Morka! Well done. "

AE-FUNAI to the world!

The Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN), has inducted 323 2022/2023 set of graduating students of the Faculty of Education, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike Ebonyi State, into the teaching profession.
Declaring the event open, the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Sunday Elom who was represented by Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic, Prof. Romanus Ejiaga commended the efforts of the Dean and staff of the Faculty in ensuring that the professional body ushers in the new graduating students into the teaching profession, adding that it will improve the competence and capacity of the inductees to excel in the field of education.
He noted that teachers’ commitment were paramount in human capital development and urged the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria to always give serious attention to teachers’ training to enhance their capacities especially in grooming the young ones in the field.
The Vice-Chancellor also charged the newly inducted teachers to give the society what is expected of them wherever they may find themselves in future as they were properly nurtured by the University for four years in excellence and integrity.
Earlier in her welcome address, the Ag. Dean, Faculty of Education, Dr. Ntasiobi Igu congratulated the inductees for excelling in their studies and also for passing the teachers’ professional examination.
She added that the teaching profession is noble but challenging, informing the inductees that teachers were the heartbeat of the society and admonished them to be guided by the University’s core values of excellence and integrity in practicing their profession in their respective subject areas.
The Registrar/ Chief Executive Officer, Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN), Prof. Josiah Olusegun Ajiboye who was represented by the Director, Regulation, Accreditation and Enforcement, Dr. Ahmed Abimbola Okunola, while making his remarks appreciated the University for providing the enabling environment for the development of future teachers.
He commended the Dean of the Faculty in a particular, for her commitment and dedication towards ensuring that the Faculty becomes the best among others and ensuring that they were always guided by the TRCN rules especially in adhering to their professional oath.
He noted that TRCN plays important roles in the country in bringing out the best in teachers and called for everyone to support and encourage teachers.
While delivering the Induction Lecture titled “Quality Teacher: An Imperative to Debunk the ‘’School is a scam’’ Campaign’, Prof. Florence Otta, stressed on the importance of grooming quality teachers that can impact meaningfully in the life of students in particular and society in general.
She noted that education is the key in every angles of life, and plays a significant role in the growth of individuals and the society, stressing that the role education plays in economic, social and political life of any country is consistent with several research findings on the critical role of education in strengthening a country.
She maintained that teachers who were committed to students and their learning believe that all students can learn, adding that such teachers know how to impact knowledge, and ignite creativity, curiosity, integrity and a lifelong love of learning in students.
She further noted that education is a powerful tool for breaking down barriers geared towards promoting understanding among individuals in order to create a safe and secure future for people regardless of their race, religion, sex and status.

aefunai faculty of education holds 4th annual hybrid conference on re-inventing the wheels of education for national security and economic enhancement

The Faculty of Education, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, has organized its 4th annual hybrid conference themed: Re-Inventing the Wheels of Education for Security and Economic Enhancement.
The conference which was held at the Theatre Arts Auditorium of the University from Wednesday, 26th to Friday, 28th June, 2024 was geared towards developing strategies and proffering solutions to tackle the menace of insecurity in order to enhance the economic development of the country.
Declaring the Conference open, the Vice- Chancellor of the University, Prof. Sunday Elom who was represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic, Prof. Romanus Ejiaga, commended the Faculty for their thoughtfulness in hosting the conference, noting that the theme was relevant, given that functional education promotes tolerance, peace, unity and order which help in national security and economic development.
He stated that the Nigerian government has tried in many ways to contain the security challenges facing the country including increasing budgetary allocations to the security sector, to ensure that the lives and property of the citizens are well secured.
The Vice Chancellor further noted that contemporary security challenges in the country have not only raised critical questions bordering the public, concerning the implementation and execution of the Nigerian security policy but also the need for security agents to perform their statutory duties for the good of the country.
He also challenged the participants to be open-minded to new ideas to be able to identify valuable innovative tools and approaches that positively transform teaching and learning in the present digital age.
The Acting Dean, Faculty of Education, Dr. Ntasiobi Igu in her opening speech, noted that the conference was meant to develop new ideas on how to tackle the security and economic challenges facing the country, adding that education has an important role in addressing the challenges of national security for economic enhancement .
She therefore, said that the theme of the conference was not only an option but also an important task for national growth and development to all that will participate in the conference for a better future.
The Local Organizing Committee Chairman, Dr. Edith Obande-Ogbuinya commended the Vice-Chancellor for his constant support to the Faculty of Education and for approving the hosting of the conference.
She stressed that the conference was meant to develop a better-structured education system that will ensure national security and economic enhancement of the Nigerian state.
She further urged the entire participants to ensure they learn one or two strategies for coping with the security challenges facing the country at the moment .
While delivering the keynote speech, Prof. John Undie in a lecture titled, “Re-inventing the Wheels of Education and Implication for Sustainable National Development in Nigeria”, noted that the goals of education in Nigeria were geared towards achieving a united, strong and self-reliant nation, and a land filled with opportunities and brightness for all the citizens.
He noted that in order to reinvent the wheels of the Nigerian education system, the country needs to value what are being developed by the indigenous researchers and attempt to use same to solve national problems.
He added that Nigeria has all it takes to be a great nation, adding that with a well organized structures, and with an efficient and functional University system, the country will attain desired sustainable national development.
He maintained that universities are at the heart of sustainable development agenda, with the capacity to respond positively to either global, national, or local questions that bothers the citizen on what they are doing and what they ought to do in order to guarantee national development that is sustainable, which will eventually provide positive responses and satisfaction to global question.
He argued that the goals of university education is to contribute to national development through high level relevant training and the development of the intellectual capacity of individuals to understand and appreciate their local and external environments and also acquire both physical and intellectual skills that will enable individuals to be self-reliant and useful citizen to the society.
He therefore, called for genuine reforms that could bring about positive socio-economic and overall change in Nigeria and the proper utilization of all University education resources by applying the best practices as well as an updated and restructured curricula to meet the demands of sustainable development that is relevant and acceptable.
He further said that all stakeholders must co-operate and partner with government to evolve a viable and hopeful university education tradition that will bring genuine development and entrepreneurship that will benefit the people.
Prof. Joseph C. Onuoha, a lead paper presenter who spoke on “Innovative Educational Strategies for Economic Growth and National Security: Integrating Technology, Global Perspectives and Sports Management”, said that the integration of technology in education facilitates customized learning experience that will specifically be designed to meet the unique learning needs of the students.
He added that technology has taken over the delivery and consumption of education through e-learning platforms and advanced technology.
Prof. Onuoha further stated that strategic studies and global security will be helpful in educational programmes in teaching students about the global cyber security landscape, international cyber laws, and how it could be deployed by various nations to protect their digital infrastructure and also help students to gain insight into how different nations approach security and defense, by enabling them to develop strategies that enhance national and global security.
He also added that incorporating sports in education will help to cultivate discipline, leadership and teamwork, which are crucial in national security.
Highlight of the conference was planting of trees by the keynote speaker, lead paper presenter and staff of the Faculty of Education in support of the Campus-Green Initiative of the University.

The staff and students of Kassia Braun Memorial Schools Umuigwe, Ebonyi State recently toured the Centre of Indigenous Textile, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, where they were taken through the dynamics of traditional weaving and the production process of the highly- popular indigenous Akwete cloth.
The Acting Director of the Centre, Miss Chiaka Nnodi commended the school for their thoughtfulness in bringing their students to the Centre, noting that the excursion visit would help them to acquire relevant knowledge on how to weave traditional fabrics.
She maintained that the Centre is focused on producing and promoting traditional fabrics in Nigeria, pledging to train some of the staff and students of the school who were interested in learning the art of weaving traditional fabrics.
Nnodi further stated that the excursion featured a series of engaging events that provided the participating students and their tutors a rich and diverse learning experience about the Centre and its activities.
She also noted that the students had an exclusive opportunity to learn how to weave traditional fabrics even as the tour offered them valuable insights about the Centre.
Continuing, the Acting Director stressed that the aim of the centre was to raise people who can sustain the trade in order not to allow the traditional weaving craft to fade away.
She also called on government at all levels to preserve the Nigerian diverse cultures, adding that the Centre was also expanding into the weaving of other traditional fabrics, such as akwa ocha and other traditional clothes.
Concluding, Nnodi noted that the Centre is trying to find a way to improve the efficiency of its activities with the help of the Faculty of Engineering and Technology on how to produce the loom used in making fabrics.
While going memory lane, the Acting Deputy Director of the Centre, Mrs. Rosemary George, in a brief history of how the making of Akwete was institutionalized in AE-FUNAI, said although Igbos are known for their cultural heritage and symbolism, Akwete is a craft that cut across different tribes in Nigeria, Igbo inclusive.
Continuing, she stated that as a way of sustaining one of the cultural heritages of Igbos, the making of Akwete was institutionalized in AE-FUNAI with the establishment of the Centre of Indigenous Textile in the university to promote the Igbo culture.
While responding, the Head Teacher of the school, Mr. Anayo Ngene, noted that AE-FUNAI was one of the institutions that were penciled down for excursion, adding that the Centre afforded the students, most of whom had never set their eyes on process involved in the weaving of traditional fabrics, the opportunity not only to see it but also to be trained on how to produce the fabrics.
He expressed his appreciation to the university management for giving the students the opportunity to be at the Centre.
The students and staff on their part were excited and satisfied after the tour and training.

ae-funai faculty of agriculture hosts 4th international conference with focus on impact of climate change on food security
The Faculty of Agriculture, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu- Alike, Ebonyi State has organized its 4th Food Security International conference with robust and far-reaching discussions, and exchange and sharing of relevant knowledge and experiences on the implications of climate change on food security.
The conference with the theme: Climate Change and Food Value Chain Management/Development was held at the Needs Assessment Building mini auditorium of the Institution.
While declaring the conference open, the Vice- Chancellor of the University, Prof. Sunday Elom, noted that the theme of the conference was necessitated by the global efforts meant to tackle climate change, which has been a challenge to the development of food value chain in Nigeria and many parts of the world.
He maintained that climate change disrupts food system with serious implication on food security, nutrients and health of the public.
The Vice-Chancellor who was represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Administration, Prof. Abel Ezeoha argued that building resilient food value chain requires actions that will reduce the vulnerability of the sector to climate change as well as mitigating carbon emissions from food value chain.
He therefore advised and encouraged the participants to take the conference seriously, adding that the conference afforded researchers the opportunity to come together and share knowledge to find a way forward for a climate-smart food value chain and proffer solutions to the challenges facing the Agricultural sector in Nigeria.

In her opening remarks, the Acting Dean, Faculty of Agriculture, Dr. Christiana Igberi thanked the Vice- Chancellor for his support and approval to host the conference.
She stated that the conference was timely because climate change is a serious challenge to the development of food value chain in Nigeria, which calls for urgent and intensive actions.
She noted that the challenge of climate change can be addressed in a collaborative efforts, stressing that the vision of the Faculty is to lead in all aspects of research, strategies and collaborative actions that will result in food security and the development of resilient food value chain in Nigeria and beyond with the expectancy of total reduction of the vulnerability of the Agricultural sector to climate change in an innovative way.
Dr. Igberi noted that the Faculty is partnering with the Cooperation for Holistic Agriculture and Innovation Nests in Sub-Sahara African (CHAIN) funded by the European Union through Erasmus+ scheme that is geared towards modernizing Agricultural Education in Nigeria and other African countries.


She further added that the aim of the conference was to crossbreed ideas and strategize to transform the food value chain towards powering sustainable development and climate change mitigation that could lead to food security.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Local Organizing Committee Chairman, Prof. Dr. Jonny Ogunji, said that climate change is a reality affecting every aspects of lives with its extreme and unpredictable weather pattern that shifts Agricultural zones and threatened food security, and disrupt supply chains and poses significant challenges to both producers and consumers around the globe.
He added that it’s possible to reduce emissions and become more resilient, which will require major social, economic and technological change, noting that the Faculty's goal is to address the critical areas that include sustainable Agriculture, supply chain resilience and technological innovation that can help in finding a solution to food security in the country and beyond.


Delivering the Keynote speech of the conference, Prof. Maduebibisi Ofo Iwe, Vice- Chancellor, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike, Abia State, represented by Prof. Maria-Stella Njoku, said that climate change is a long term change in the average weather patterns that have come to define the earth’s global climate.
He noted that change in climate and temperature caused by human factors and natural factors, has a severe impact on humans and nature, with negative impact on economic growth and sustainability.
Prof. Iwe further stated that climate is crucial to Nigeria's Agribusiness value chain and if actions are not taken, the impact of the change in weather will continue to cause severe effects on livelihoods in Nigeria.
He also said that due to climate change, natural disasters were occurring more often and it ends up causing problems to the Agricultural sector that leads to financial losses.
While stressing on the need for stakeholders to change from traditional practices and accept new climate smart technologies in various ways of the value chain, Prof. Iwe recommended that food value chain should be more propagated with enlightenment on strategies to mitigate climate change impact.


Also, speaking at the conference, Prof. Christopher C. Eze , Vice- Chancellor, University of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, Umuagwo, Imo State, who espoused on the topic: “Climate Change and Food Value Chains- The Role of Research, Policy and Sustainable Practice”, said that change in climate has been a lasting shift in weather patterns and temperatures.
He explained that it also involves human- induced modifications in weather patterns having local, national and global impact, stressing that the impact originates from green- house gas emission, which causes a global green- house effect which in turn creates global warming, increases temperature and loss in the earth’s protective ozone layer.
He maintained that the current predictions and catastrophes have been foreseen to magnify over the coming decades if sustainable change were not made in curbing green- house gas emission, which could lead to food shortages, famine, starvation and large scale death.
He said that a sustainable food value chain development is profitable and has a long term benefit and positive impact on the natural environment.
Speaking further, Prof. Eze stated that creating job and sources of incomes that will benefits the society and promote the well-being of rural dwellers as people push to derive their livelihood, and the development of food value chains that will ensure healthier and cheaper food that will be delivered to markets in abundance for public consumption should be the target of all stakeholders.
He added that climate adaptation measures have to be promoted at the farm level for crop production activities, dry planting, early planting, use of drought tolerant seeds, crop diversification, water storage and natural barriers.
He also maintained that the development of green energy and the need to enforce it’s use as against the use of fossil fuel could be encouraged and promoted, adding tha public infrastructure such as sustainable road linking production site to markets and development of value chains will assist in assuring food security.
Earlier before the conference, the Local Organizing Committee paid a courtesy call on the University Management.

The Centre for Human Resource Development (CHRD), Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, has organized a capacity building programme for security officials of the University.

The 2-day training programme themed ‘’Work Ethics and Expectations of Security Personnel’’ which held from Monday, 10th to Tuesday, 12th June, 2024 was geared towards upgrading the knowledge and skills of the staff on current security problems and how to tackle them within the institution.


In his opening remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Sunday Elom, stated that the training programme was meant to equip the staff with the right knowledge and skills to execute their tasks efficiently.

He noted that the theme of the workshop “Work Ethics and Expectations of Security Personnel” was relevant, given that through proper training, security personnel learn effective communication techniques, conflict resolution strategies, and surveillance tactics.

The Vice-Chancellor, who was represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic, Prof. Romanus Ejiaga, said the training would not only help the security staff to be good in their job but would also encourage them to work as a team in order to keep the university safe, adding that working as a team would enable them to protect life and property on campus.

He reiterated that the training exercise would help the security personnel to be properly informed about the rules, policies, and ethical considerations that guide their actions in the university.

‘’We need a well-groomed, courteous security staff that reflects positively on our University values’’ he said.

The Registrar, Barr. T. Ifeanyi Igwe, while delivering his lecture on the topic: ‘’The Relationship between the CSO and University Management’’, said high expectations are on the security staff to safeguard the lives and property of everyone in the university, encouraging the security personnel to work harmoniously with the university management in promoting peace and orderliness on campus.


He maintained that communication is very critical in security, urging the security personnel to develop good communication skills, efficient management skills as well as emotional and social intelligence in order to function effectively as security operatives, while also urging them to take responsibility for their actions and work as a team in ensuring that proper surveillance is maintained at all times within the campus.

While delivering his lecture on the theme of the workshop, the Director, Centre for Human Resource Development, Prof. Fidelis Okpata, emphasized that organizational success or worth is tied to set performance standard, adding that organizational goals are further dependent on the style, vision, understanding and personality of leadership.

He maintained that no system of administration in any organization including the university system is good or bad but there should be an acceptable standard in a work place to enable workers to show integrity and honesty at work.

He defined work ethics as a personal set of standard of acceptable behavior in the work place which directly influences how someone approaches their daily tasks, stressing that achieving set goals in any organization, depends to a very large extent, on the commitment of staff.

He therefore, enjoined the security staff to be committed to their jobs by showing good examples at work, develop good human relationship as well as respect constituted authorities.

Prof. Okpata speaking further, affirmed that the totality of work ethics of every worker which is not limited to the security staff alone, is that every staff should put in a full day’s work for a full day pay by coming to work on time, maintaining their beats as well as showing sympathetic understanding of the difficulties confronting the university, especially the issue of co-habitation with the villagers and the host communities amongst others.

Concluding, he advised the security officers to have the willingness to go the extra mile, render helping hands to one another, cultivate and promote the spirit of esprit de corps in their social relationship at work and respect the reporting procedure and communication channels in the university.
In the same vein, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Administration, Prof. Abel Ezeoha who spoke on the topic: “Understanding security services in the university community”, stated that security is the responsibility of everyone, but purely dependent on the security officers.

He maintained that as security officers, they should be able to know what their roles entail and what they have been called up to do, adding that it is the first step to cultivating the required level of commitment to the system.

He mentioned that commitment to their job is important as it is the only thing one cannot fake.

He outlined the primary responsibilities of the security department, as being committed to securing lives and property of the university community, sustaining the boundary integrity of the university, creating an enabling environment for academic activities of the university, understanding the structures and how the university works, and issuing security alerts or directives to the university community amongst others.

He further urged the security officers to be diligent in their work and collaborate with one another to be able to deal with some security alerts that might arise, while appealing with them to bear with the management on the issue of shortfall in the number of personnel and other needs as management is working assiduously in achieving their needs.

In his closing remarks, the Chief Security Officer of the university, Chief Emeka Ogai, thanked the Centre for Human Resource Development organizing the training programme, stressing that the training has given them the opportunity to be better in their respective job assignments.

He equally appreciated the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Elom for approving the workshop, assuring that security department will leverage on the training to be above board, while urging his officers and men to be punctual and always be at their duty posts.

Other facilitators on the second day of the programme were; Prof. Smart Otu, who spoke on the topic: “Operating strategic security surveillance in the university system”, Prof Ejiaga, who delivered a lecture on, “Discipline in Security services in the university”, and the Chief Security Officer, Chief Emeka Ogai, who spoke on, “the security staff/personnel and his mandate on campus”; all advocating towards maintaining excellent security services in the university.

Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State has secured the National Universities Commission (NUC) accreditation for 35 of its academic programmes. It is the largest number of programmes to have ever been accredited in the university since its establishment in 2011 in a single accreditation exercise.
The University had between October and December 2023 presented 35 academic programmes to the regulatory body for either accreditation or reaccreditation. The programmes were made up of 2 postgraduate and 33 undergraduate programmes respectively.

The result released by the National Universities Commission (NUC) as contained in a memo with reference Number NUC/ES/412/VOL.14/361 addressed to the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Sunday Elom, dated 6th June, 2024 and signed by the Acting Director of Accreditation, Engr. Ibrahim Chundusu on behalf of the Executive Secretary, shows that 31 of the undergraduate programmes received full accreditation and 2 with interim accreditation while the two postgraduate programmes – M.Sc. Accountancy and M.Sc. Business Administration were also accredited.
The programmes with full accreditation status include: Accounting, Architecture, English & Literary Studies, French Language, History & Strategic Studies, Igbo Language, Linguistics, Linguistics French, Linguistics Igbo and Music. Other Programmes with full accreditation are: Philosophy, Anatomy, Mass Communication, Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Fine and Applied Arts, Law, Medicine and Surgery, Applied Geophysics, Biochemistry, Biology and Chemistry. Others include: Mathematics, Microbiology, Physics, Economics and Development Studies, Geography, Political Science, Psychology and Sociology.

The two programmes with interim accreditation are Business Administration and Criminology & Security Studies.

The memo further noted that the implication of the accreditation status for postgraduate programmes is that it is valid for a period of five (5) years; full accreditation status for undergraduate programmes is valid for a period of five (5) years (i.e. 2023-2028) while interim accreditation status for undergraduate programmes is valid for a period of two (2) years after which the programmes will be re-visited (i.e. 2023- 2025).

While commenting on the extraordinary performance of the university in the accreditation exercise, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Elom noted that it was the fulfillment of one of his 16-point agenda on assumption of office in 2021, which entails his unbroken commitment towards ensuring that all the university’s academic programmes were approved and accredited by the National Universities Commission and other relevant professional bodies before the end of his tenure.

He further assured of his administration’s resolve in running only approved and accredited programmes to ensure that students graduate timely, without encumbrances.

The Vice-Chancellor also commended the passion, dedication and unassailable work ethics of the staff – teaching and non-teaching alike, which have made the university one of the most serious public universities in Nigeria and a rapidly emerging citadel of learning in Africa, adding that without them, the accreditation exercise would not have been a success.

He further commended members of the University Management, Deans, Directors, Heads of Departments, staff and students for their notable contributions towards the growth and development of the university over the years.

The Vice-Chancellor therefore urged the staff to continue in such trajectory, assuring them of his commitment to their unfettered career progression and welfare.



aefunai secures nuc accreditation for 35 programmes
Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State has secured the National Universities Commission (NUC) accreditation for 35 of its academic programmes. It is the largest number of programmes to have ever been accredited in the university since its establishment in 2011 in a single accreditation exercise.
The University had between October and December 2023 presented 35 academic programmes to the regulatory body for either accreditation or reaccreditation. The programmes were made up of 2 postgraduate and 33 undergraduate programmes respectively.

The result released by the National Universities Commission (NUC) as contained in a memo with reference Number NUC/ES/412/VOL.14/361 addressed to the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Sunday Elom, dated 6th June, 2024 and signed by the Acting Director of Accreditation, Engr. Ibrahim Chundusu on behalf of the Executive Secretary, shows that 31 of the undergraduate programmes received full accreditation and 2 with interim accreditation while the two postgraduate programmes – M.Sc. Accountancy and M.Sc. Business Administration were also accredited.
The programmes with full accreditation status include: Accounting, Architecture, English & Literary Studies, French Language, History & Strategic Studies, Igbo Language, Linguistics, Linguistics French, Linguistics Igbo and Music. Other Programmes with full accreditation are: Philosophy, Anatomy, Mass Communication, Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Fine and Applied Arts, Law, Medicine and Surgery, Applied Geophysics, Biochemistry, Biology and Chemistry. Others include: Mathematics, Microbiology, Physics, Economics and Development Studies, Geography, Political Science, Psychology and Sociology.

The two programmes with interim accreditation are Business Administration and Criminology & Security Studies.

The memo further noted that the implication of the accreditation status for postgraduate programmes is that it is valid for a period of five (5) years; full accreditation status for undergraduate programmes is valid for a period of five (5) years (i.e. 2023-2028) while interim accreditation status for undergraduate programmes is valid for a period of two (2) years after which the programmes will be re-visited (i.e. 2023- 2025).

While commenting on the extraordinary performance of the university in the accreditation exercise, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Elom noted that it was the fulfillment of one of his 16-point agenda on assumption of office in 2021, which entails his unbroken commitment towards ensuring that all the university’s academic programmes were approved and accredited by the National Universities Commission and other relevant professional bodies before the end of his tenure.

He further assured of his administration’s resolve in running only approved and accredited programmes to ensure that students graduate timely, without encumbrances.

The Vice-Chancellor also commended the passion, dedication and unassailable work ethics of the staff – teaching and non-teaching alike, which have made the university one of the most serious public universities in Nigeria and a rapidly emerging citadel of learning in Africa, adding that without them, the accreditation exercise would not have been a success.

He further commended members of the University Management, Deans, Directors, Heads of Departments, staff and students for their notable contributions towards the growth and development of the university over the years.

The Vice-Chancellor therefore urged the staff to continue in such trajectory, assuring them of his commitment to their unfettered career progression and welfare.



v

aefunai ranks first at 16th nelson mandela world human rights moot court competition

 To represent Nigeria in Switzerland
Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, has clinched the first position among Nigerian universities at the 16th edition of the Nelson Mandela World Human Rights Moot Court Competition held from 14th to 21st May, 2024.
The University was represented at the competition by Okechukwu Amarachi Sharon and Okeosisi Amarachi Miracle, both 500 level students of the Faculty of Law. At the end of proceedings, the university emerged first out of over 20 Nigerian universities that competed at the event. Globally, about 200 universities from Africa, America, Asia, Europe and United Nations regions participated in the virtual competition.
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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom

The Nelson Mandela World Human Rights World Moot competition is an international Mooting Competition for Law undergraduates and Masters’ students in universities across the world. The 16th edition of the Competition adopted a hybrid format, with the in-person grand finale scheduled to take place at the Palais des Nations in Geneva, Switzerland
The university representatives at the competition demonstrated unparalleled expertise, creativity and passion for human rights, which helped them to become the best in Nigeria, and thus qualified to represent the country at the Palais des Nations in Geneva, Switzerland scheduled to hold from 15th to 19th, July, 2024.

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Okechukwu Amara Sharon

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Okeosisi Amarachi Miracle

Sharing their experience at the competition, the Students’ Staff Adviser and Coach, Barr. Paschal Olebara, noted that the remarkable feat was a testament to the transformative power of education and the unwavering commitment of their faculty towards creating a better world. He maintained that the success story was in line with the vision of the Vice-Chancellor, geared towards making AE-FUNAI a world class University.
He further assured: ‘’We are confident that our students will continue to be beacons of hope and champions of human rights, inspiring a new generation of leaders to follow in their footsteps’’, while looking forward to becoming the world champion at the grand finale of the competition in Switzerland in July this year.
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Staff Adviser/Coach, Barr. Paschal Olebara

While commending the students for their outstanding performance at the competition, the Acting Dean, Faculty of Law, Dr. Eseni Azu Udu, noted that their successful journey was a testament of their unwavering dedication and the faculty’s unrelenting commitment to excellence. He reiterated that their achievement has not only made the university proud but also underscored its commitment to nurturing future leaders in the field of human rights.
He extolled the faculty staff adviser and team coach to the competition, Barr. Olebara for his contribution, stressing that under his guidance, the students navigated the complexities of human rights law with remarkable heights.

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Ag. Dean, Faculty of Law, Dr. Eseni Azu Udu

Dr. Udu further appreciated the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sunday Elom for creating an enabling environment where students can excel and soar higher academically, noting that the welfare of staff and students of the Faculty of Law, were top priorities of the Vice-Chancellor.
The Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Elom while congratulating the students for their outstanding performance at the 16th Nelson Mandela World Human Rights Moot Court Competition, commended their prowess, adding that their achievement has put the university on the front burner of international discourse.
He assured them of his administration’s sustained support and exposures to enable them excel in their academic activities and other aspects of life in order to contribute meaningfully to national development He further applauded the staff of the Faculty of Law for their resourcefulness and dedication to duty

ae-funai signs mou with texas southern university, united states, on exchange programmes
The Faculty of Social Sciences, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, on Thursday, 23rd May, 2024 formalized an agreement with the Texas Southern University (TSU) Houston, Texas, United States of America, through the Barbara Jordan-Mickey Leland School of Public Affairs on exchange programmes, geared towards promoting collaborative academic opportunities for both institutions.
The collaborative process started in 2019 with the Carnegia Institute, an international scholarship programme whose responsibility is to sponsor Africans in the diaspora who are lecturing in universities in the United States and Canada.

Speaking on the importance of the partnership, the Dean, Faculty of Social Sciences, Prof. Smart Otu noted that the University initiated the process in 2019, stressing that one of the benefits of the programme was the collaboration between the host institution, AE-FUNAI and the scholars’ institution, adding that he was elated that the dream has finally become a reality.

He assured the American scholars that AE-FUNAI was committed to providing the necessary support to ensure the successful implementation of the terms of agreement of the exchange programme.
Prof. Andrew Ikeh Ewoh, the Interim Dean, Barbara Jordan-Mickey Leland School of Public Affairs, Texas Southern University, while speaking on behalf of the visiting team, stated that the terms and conditions of the MoU were to develop academic and educational cooperation, promote relations as well as ensure mutual understanding between the two institutions.

He noted that the MoU covers faculty exchange, staff exchange, scholarship in terms of publications and joint application for research grants amongst others, adding that the programme will be a win-win situation for the host institution.
He equally appreciated the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Sunday Elom for the hospitality accorded to them, while looking forward to partnering and collaborating with staff and students in moving the institution forward.
While responding, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Elom, who was represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic, Prof Romanus Ejiaga, thanked the American scholars for finding out time to visit the university, stating that there were numerous gains in the collaboration, especially now that the country is talking about international education and enhancement of academic quality, adding that the agreement would be beneficial to both institutions.

The delegates from the Barbara Jordan-Mickey Leland School of Public Affairs, Texas Southern University, United States that visited the University for the signing of the MoU included: Howard Henderson, Professor of Justice Administration, George Kr¬ieh, former Dean, Barbara Jordan-Micky Leland School of Public Affairs and a Professor of Public Science and Public Administration, Declan Ihekwoaba Onwudiwe, Professor of Administration of Justice, Carnegia African Diaspora Scholar Fellowship-AE-FUNAI and Andrew Ikeh Emmanuel Ewoh, Interim Dean, Barbara Jordan-Micky Leland School of Public Affairs, Texas Southern University and a Professor of Political Science and Public Administration.

aefunai 7th & 8th combined convocation lecture: renowned expert proffers solutions to challenges of power supply in nigeria
A world-renowned expert in the field electricity and a strategic player in the power sector in Nigeria, Professor Barth Nnaji, has identified and proffered workable solutions to the intractable challenges bedeviling the Nigerian power sector.
The former Minister of Power and currently, the Chairman/CEO, Geometric Power Group, made the revelations at the 7th and 8th combined convocation lecture of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, with the theme, *‘’Challenges and Opportunities to Improving Power Availability in Nigeria’’*

The event which took place on Wednesday, 22nd May, 2024, at the Abubakar Adamu Rasheed Auditorium of the University, brought together experts, invited guests, faculty members and graduating students, in their commitment to fostering academic excellence and nation-building.
Professor Nnaji offered valuable perspectives on the obstacles facing the nation and the opportunities to overcoming them, adding that regular and adequate power supply is the hallmark of a developed economy.
He emphasized the need for Nigeria to generate and effectively transmit and distribute at least 100,000MW of power to become a middle-income economy, stressing that any nation whose energy is epileptic in supply, prolongs development and risks losing potential investors.

Speaking further the Geometric helmsman mentioned policy inconsistencies and policy summersaults as the major hindrances to effective implementation of power projects and major cause of epileptic power supply in Nigeria, and called for innovative solutions to address the problems.
He highlighted the Aba Integrated Power Project as a successful example of private sector-driven power development and called for a state of emergency in the gas sector to address the acute gas shortages, stressing that if the acute gas shortages were not adequately addressed with the required sincerity of purpose by stakeholders, the country would face more severe power shortages.
Concluding, Professor Nnaji encouraged the graduating students to embrace entrepreneurship and create values in their chosen fields. He challenged them to resist mediocrity and become assets to society, contributing to Nigeria's industrial economy as well as be part of a movement that will drop the country from the list of most corrupt nations in the world.

While making his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sunday Elom, stated that as a University, “we recognize the importance of engaging with pressing national issues and contributing to the search for solutions, noting that the choice of the theme "Challenges and Opportunities to Improving Power Availability in Nigeria” was a bold testament of our commitment to academic excellence, corporate social responsibility and nation-building”.
He maintained that access to reliable and sustainable power was a fundamental driver of economic growth and development, and called for collective engagements to explore ways to address the power challenges facing our nation as well as work assiduously towards a brighter future for all Nigerians.
Professor Elom further expressed his gratitude to Prof. Nnaji for accepting the invitation to deliver the lecture, while extolling the Chancellor of the University, HRM (Dr) Michael Aremu Gbadebo, CFR, the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, and the Chairman of the occasion, Prof. Jesse Uneke, as well as other dignitaries for their presence, adding that the event would provide an opportunity for learning, reflection, and contribution to the advancement of Nigeria.

Earlier in his opening speech, the Chairman of the occasion, Prof. Jesse Uneke, appreciated Prof. Bart Nnaji for being the convocation lecturer at the AE-FUNAI 7th and 8th combined convocation ceremony, noting that the theme of the lecture was apt and timely as it will throw up the challenges and ways to improving the power sector in Nigeria.
He added that power was a major factor in sustainable economic development, even in the running of a university and decried the use of diesel in the running of the daily activities of most universities in Nigeria.
He therefore, urged the audience to pay attention to the renowned expert as he delivers his lecture and proffers solutions to the challenges of power availability in the country.

AE-FUNAI MARKS 7TH AND 8TH CONVOCATION WITH 52 FIRST CLASS GRADUATES
Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu- Alike, Ebonyi state, on Thursday, 23rd May, 2024, held its 7th and 8th combined convocation ceremony, with 52 students graduating with first class degrees in different disciplines.

The event which was held at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Convocation Arena witnessed a mammoth crowd that included government officials, politicians, industrialists, academics, parents, guardians and friends of graduands as well as friends and partners of the university.

While addressing the convocation, the visitor to the university, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu who was represented by the Vice-Chancellor, University of Nigeria Nsukka, Professor, Charles Igwe congratulated the University for the auspicious event and said that in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda, his administration is ready to propel Nigeria to a greater nation through the expansion of access to quality University education.

He emphasized his government’s commitment towards funding University Education by providing more specific interventions such as; Needs assessment and TETFUND interventions, and other investments in Tertiary Education such as the recently launched students’ loans scheme which is meant to provide opportunities to all Nigerians, especially those from poor homes to access education at the highest level.

He promised the federal government’s support to all research efforts geared towards making the country economically viable and sustainable, which prompted the new lease of life given to the universities by exempting them from the Integrated Personnel Payroll System (IPPIS) in recognition of the peculiarities in the University system.

While congratulating the gradaunds, the visitor reminded them of how privileged they were to gain a university degree and charged them to seize the opportunity afforded by their graduation, to lunch themselves into the world as one of the critical pivots of the nation’s development and future leaders in Nigeria’s political economy.
In his address, the University’s Chancellor, His Royal Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Michael Aremu Adedotun Gbadebo commended the Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor Sunday Elom, for leading the university through rapid development, stating that under his administration, the University has developed a reputation as a rapidly emerging top education brand in Africa due to its high academic standard as epitomized by its robust teaching and learning activities.

He further stated that the deliberate expansion of academic activities initiated by the Vice Chancellor, which led to the mounting of new academic programs namely; Nursing Science, Medical Laboratory Science, Nutrition and Dietetics, Public Administration and Technical Education has made the university the most sought-after public university in Southeast of Nigeria.

Speaking further, the Chancellor congratulated the graduands for their outstanding commitment to the ideals and culture of the University which made them deserving of their academic success.
In his speech, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Elom, commended the Visitor for his determination to reposition the Nigerian University system which is visible in his Renewed Hope Agenda.

He opined that the enunciation of such policies and programmes like the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, Safe School and many others were eloquent testaments of his administration’s resolve towards arresting some of the intractable challenges hampering the growth and development of public universities in Nigeria.


He stressed that at the 7th and 8th combined convocation ceremony, at the undergraduate degree level, the university turned-out 3,474 graduands, adding that 1, 357 of them belong to the 2020/2021 set while 2, 117 is of the 2021/2022 academic year.


The Vice-Chancellor further noted that the 3, 474 graduands were awarded Bachelor’s degrees in 10 Faculties, highlighting that out of the 3, 474 graduands, 52 graduated with First Class, 911 with Second Class (Upper Division), 2, 088 with Second Class (Lower Division), 407 with Third Class and 1 with pass.
However, at the postgraduate level, the Vice-Chancellor stated that 95 graduates were turned-out, made up of 9 Ph.Ds, 62 Masters and 24 Postgraduate Diplomas, adding that it was the first time the university presented Ph.D. and Masters’ Degree students for convocation.
He equally applauded the Governor of Ebonyi state, Rt. Hon. Francis Nwifuru, for his people -orientated policies, especially his plan to revitalize education in the state and for being a dependable host.
While congratulating the two honorary doctorate degree awardees - Chief Martin Elechi and Chief Innocent Chukwuma, the Vice-Chancellor noted that the duo were carefully selected for their laudable track records in the public and private sectors of our political economy.
The Vice-Chancellor also congratulated the postgraduate and undergraduate graduands, and urged them to be diligent in their life endeavors and to uphold the values inculcated in them during their sojourn in AE-FUNAI, reminding them that their graduation was a beginning of another important phase of their lives.

In his goodwill message, the Governor of Ebonyi State, Rt. Hon. Francis Nwifuru, who was represented by the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Professor Amari Omaka, commended the Vice- Chancellor for the developmental strides recorded in the university since his assumption of office, especially in physical infrastructure and research output which have made the institution to stand out from other Tertiary institutions.

The highlight of the occasion was the award of the Vice-Chancellor’s prize to the two overall best graduating students for the 2020/2021 and 2021/2022 academic sessions in the persons of Ugwu Paulinus Uche and Echara Wilson Sunday of the departments of Electrical/Electronic Engineering and Mathematics/Statistics respectively.

The ceremony also witnessed the conferment of honorary doctorate degrees of Development Economics on His Excellency Chief Nwancho Martin Elechi, former governor of Ebonyi state and Doctor of Engineering and Technology on Chief Innocent Ifediaso Chukwuma, Founder/CEO of Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing (IVM)

aefunai vc commisions a block of 4 shops constructed by faculty of education
The Vice-Chancellor, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Prof. Sunday Elom, has commissioned a block of 4 shops constructed by the Faculty of Education, meant to provide for the personal needs of staff and students, thereby alleviating the stress they face searching for essential commodities in other parts of the university campus.

The construction of the shops commenced after the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sunday Elom gave his approval in May 2023, during a courtesy call by the immediate past Ag Dean of the faculty, Dr. Francisca Ogba when she intimated Vice-Chancellor, on the need for the project .

While delivering her welcome address, the Ag. Dean, Faculty of Education, Dr. Ntasiobi Igu, expressed her gratitude to the Vice-Chancellor for matching his words with action, stressing that proceeds from the shops, will help to meet some of the needs of the faculty, and also serve as a source of Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) for the University.
She equally stated that the money used in putting up the building came from the proceeds of their last conference, remnant from their last teaching practice and Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN) induction.

The Vice-Chancellor, represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic, Prof. Romanus Ejiaga, while commissioning the project, commended the Faculty for their thoughtfulness in initiating and making the project a reality, stating that the shops will serve as a convenience place for both staff and students. He enjoined other Faculties to emulate the gesture and try to assist in the development of their faculty in any little way they can.

Contributing, the immediate past Ag. Dean, Faculty of Education, Dr. Francisca Ogba, thanked the Vice-Chancellor for giving the approval to initiate the project, while also appreciating the current Ag Dean, Dr. Igu, for completing the project, adding that the project was aa result of team effort.
In the same vein, the Chairman of the Faculty committee that oversaw the project, Dr. David Udu, thanked the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Elom for providing the enabling environment, adding that without him, the project would not have become a reality.
He further commended the Dr. Igu and other committee members for their efforts towards the successful completion of the project, and solicited for management action in making light available in the building to enhance the ease of doing business. .

we are committed to doing things differently - ae-funai vc
• commissions two projects initiated by the AE-FUNAI Parents’ Forum
The Vice-Chancellor of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Prof. Sunday Elom has said that the University is irreversibly committed to doing things differently in order to shape a better future for its students.

The Vice-Chancellor made this known on Friday, May 10th, 2024 during the 12th Matriculation ceremony of the University for the 2023/2024 Academic Session, where he kick-started the ceremony with the commissioning of two projects executed by the Parents’ forum of the University.
The AE-FUNAI Parents’ Forum is a body comprising of parents and guardians of students of the University, which is driven by a deep-rooted commitment to their children’s education and the betterment of the University at large.
The body over the years has been the driving force behind a series of impactful infrastructural projects that has significantly kept the University going.
Prof Elom, while commissioning the a 2-flat bungalow and 20 office tables and 40 chairs, as well as 170 lecture pews, all executed by the Forum expressed his profound gratitude to the association for their sustained support in bridging the infrastructural gaps in the university, adding that the forum has been a worthy partner.
The Vice-Chancellor, who was represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Administration, Prof Abel Ezeoha, extended his goodwill to the parents and guardians of the students for their unwavering support to the infrastructural development of the University, while looking forward for more interventions.
Addressing the matriculating students, the Vice-Chancellor said: ‘’To our freshmen, you are embarking on a journey of discovery, growth, and transformation, and we stand ready to guide and support you
“Shun anything that could distract you from reaching your goals as the University has zero tolerance for cultism, examination malpractice, drug abuse, campus prostitution, sex or money-for-grades, indecent/improper dressing and unruly behavior on campus
“The consequences of such acts are rustication or outright expulsion of the culprits from the university”.
The Vice-Chancellor further announced that 5,139 freshmen from different parts of the country were joining our rapidly emerging University, out of over 10,000 candidates that applied to study in the University, adding that their presence at today’s ceremony was because of their outstanding performances at both the Universal Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and the Senior Secondary School Examination.
He stated that AE-FUNAI was on the right path in its drive to becoming a world-class university and a vibrant centre of learning and research because of the seriousness of its academic activities, stressing that the University emphasizes digital literacy, for all staff and students at all level.
He maintained that the University is well equipped with a broadband internet network access on campus, well-equipped ICT Centre and a digital University library where the students can easily source and access lecture materials, e-books and e-journals in different fields and disciplines, to enhance their learning experiences, even as he charged the matriculating students to be serious with their studies and make use of the opportunity afforded by the admission to ensure that they attend classes, do their assignment and obey the University rules and regulations as well as the culture of the host community.
The Vice-Chancellor described AE-FUNAI as one of the most serious public Universities in Nigeria, where academic activities are treated with utmost seriousness. Underscoring the quality of academic activities of the existing students, he stressed that the University’s Students’ Debating Team is presently ranked first among all universities in Nigeria and currently sits 4th in the entire African continent, adding that some of the students have also benefitted from the Students’ Mobility Programme in foreign universities like University of Galve, Sweden through the sponsorship of the Erasmus + project of the European Union.
Continuing, the Vice-Chancellor noted: ‘’As a university, we are not oblivious of some challenges that you may be facing in the areas of hostel accommodation, lecture halls and security, be rest assured that management remains committed to students’ welfare and would continue to improve the conditions in the hostels and the entire campus to make sure your stay on campus is peaceful, comfortable and worthwhile”.
He assured the students of adequate security on campus, pleading with them to make use of the AE-FUNAI Microfinance Bank, situated in the ICT block and the Agency Bank at the Zenith Bank building, to take care of their banking needs instead of travelling over 20 kilometers to Abakaliki with its attendant risks.
He equally enjoined them not to shy away from asking questions from the right quarters whenever they are confused or at crossroad, adding that the University Counselling Centre, SERVICOM office, Students’ Affairs office and Public Relations Office are available and ready to attend to your questions and needs.
Concluding, the Vice-Chancellor advised the new students to live by the dictates of the University, as bad behaviours shall not be condoned.

address of the vice-chancellor, alex ekwueme federal university, ndufu- alike, ebonyi state, prof. sunday oge elom, at the 12th matriculation ceremony of the university, friday, 10th may, 2024
Protocol
I have the pleasure to extend to you a warm and heartfelt welcome to the 12th Matriculation Ceremony of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State. I am pleased to welcome the freshmen to one of the most serious public universities in Nigeria and a rapidly emerging top education brand in the African continent. I am also thrilled that these bright new faces have been admitted to study in our beloved institution in the 2023/2024 academic session.
Today marks a momentous occasion as we gather here to formally welcome our freshmen into the esteemed fold of our university family. By their admission into Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, they are privileged to be in an unusual institution, where excellence, integrity and hard work are critical to academic success. With their cooperation, we intend to groom them to become the best in their chosen fields, under the guidance of our highly cerebral, competent and committed members of staff.
As Vice-Chancellor, it is both an honour and a privilege to stand before you, amidst the backdrop of hope, ambition, and boundless potential, with the wellbeing of our students at the core of my administration The University Management will continue to work assiduously to ensure that their academic journey in AE-FUNAI will be rewarding and memorable. Nevertheless, they have a major role to play to turn this expectation into a tangible reality – by abiding by the rules and regulations guiding their academic activities and respecting all constituted authorities of the university, and showing regard to the staff and fellow students as well as the culture of the host community.
In this 2023/2024 academic year, 5,139 freshmen from different parts of the country are joining our rapidly emerging University. Out of this number, 2,364 are males while 2, 775 are females. They earned a place at today’s ceremony because of their outstanding performances at both the Universal Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and the Senior Secondary School Examination. They should, therefore be proud of their accomplishments. However, they should also be humbled by the fact that only a little over 5, 000 of them have been offered this opportunity out of over 10,000 candidates that competed for places at AE-FUNAI. Hence, they must have to justify it with good behaviour and good grades throughout their time in this university.
AE-FUNAI is on the right path in its drive to becoming a world-class university and a vibrant centre of learning and research because of the seriousness of our academic activities. We also emphasize digital 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 a broadband internet network access on campus, well-equipped ICT Centre and a digital University library where our students can easily source and access lecture materials, e-books and e-journals in different fields and disciplines, to enhance their learning experience.
This University is not only interested in turning out qualified graduates that would make positive impact on the society after graduation but also men and women of character that will be a beacon of hope for the next generation. Evidences from industries and external assessors show that our graduates and students are actually acquiring the right knowledge mix to positively impact their environment and contribute to national development. For instance, our Students’ Debating Team is presently ranked first among all universities in Nigeria and currently sits 4th in the entire African continent. Some of our students have also benefitted from the Students’ Mobility Programme in foreign universities like University of Galve, Sweden through the sponsorship of the Erasmus + project of the European Union. These underscore the quality of our academic activities.
AE- FUNAI is irreversibly committed to doing things differently in order to shape a better future for our students. To our freshmen, I say: you are embarking on a journey of discovery, growth, and transformation, and we stand ready to guide and support you, every step of the way. You have come to the University to study, therefore shun anything that could distract you from reaching your goals. We do not condone any form of cultism, examination malpractice, drug abuse, campus prostitution, sex or money-for-grades, indecent/improper dressing and unruly behavior on campus. The consequences of such acts are rustication or outright expulsion of the culprits from the university.
I also charge our students to report any form of sexual abuse, intimidation and extortion from staff. My personal phone number is 08032686617. Send text messages and WhatsApp chats to me on any issue affecting your life on campus. I assure you of prompt response and action. Your fellow students who are ahead of you in the university can attest to the fact that we have successfully solved many problems through this means, and I am committed to do more.
As a university, we are not oblivious of some challenges that you may be facing in the areas of hostel accommodation, lecture halls and security. But we are on top of the situation. Management remains committed to students’ welfare and would continue to improve the conditions in the hostels and the entire campus. We are putting the necessary infrastructure in place to make sure your stay on campus is peaceful, comfortable and worthwhile.
We are constructing more faculty buildings, lecture halls and theatres, laboratories 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, we have established a 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. We have also established the AE-FUNAI Microfinance Bank, situated in the ICT block and the Agency Bank at the Zenith Bank building, to take care of your banking needs. Thus, instead of travelling over 20 kilometers to Abakaliki with its attendant risks, I strongly advise our students, to open account with the bank and make use of the facility on campus for their banking needs.
My ‘sons and daughters’, as your in-loco parentis, I urge you to imbibe the ethics of hard work, good study habits and committed attendance to lectures and carrying out of your course assignments, for they are necessary for academic success. You will definitely encounter some obstacles on your road to success, but stay focused. Don’t shy away from asking questions from the right quarters whenever you are confused or at crossroad. The University Counselling Centre, SERVICOM office, Students’ Affairs office and Public Relations Office are available and ready to attend to your questions. The University Management assures you of all the necessary support, as long as you remain dedicated to your studies and law abiding as a student of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State.
At this occasion, you will take an oath of loyalty to this University, followed by a pledge to abide by its rules and regulations, and also vow to appreciate and cherish its ideals and culture. I therefore, charge you to live by those dictates because bad behaviour will not be condoned. At the end of today’s ceremony, each of you will sign the matriculation register, which would signify your formal registration as a student of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State
To the parents and guardians who have entrusted us with the education and well-being of their cherished ones, I offer my sincere gratitude and assurance that we will spare no effort in nurturing and shaping these young minds into the leaders of tomorrow. May I equally use this opportunity to thank the AE-FUNAI Parents’ Forum for their sustained support in bridging the infrastructural gaps in the university. For our information, before the commencement of today’s event, I commissioned some of the buildings the Forum erected at the University Staff Quarters.
And to our distinguished guests, thank you for gracing us with your presence and for your unwavering commitment to the advancement of education. Together, let us embark on this journey of learning, exploration, and excellence, as we continue to uphold the values and legacy of our esteemed institution. Welcome to Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State – the Centre of Excellence and Integrity.
Thank you.

Prof. Sunday Oge Elom
Vice - Chancellor
10th May, 2024

The real problem is with the person who ordered the UBER and the white man felt shes part of the gang, so hes not the problem but the person who master minded the whole thing and only action UBer company took was to ban the account

- Uchenna Chinwendu emerges the overall best in Public Speaking

As Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State continues to dominate the world of Public Speaking in the African continent, the institution has won the public speaking category of the recently concluded All Nigerian Youths Debating Championship held from 19th to 23rd, 2024, at Awka, Anambra state.

The University was represented by three: talented students Nwele Stanley Chiemerie, a 400 level student of Law; Obum Somkelechi, a 300 level student of Biochemistry and Uchenna Chinwendu, a 300 Level student of Agriculture. At the end of proceedings, Uchenna emerged as the overall best public speaker of the youth championship.

Also at the championship, in the category of debate, the university through Nwele Stanley made it to the top 6 in the tournament. The university was also represented in the category of debate by 4 novice speakers, Afam Martius, 300 level student of
Civil Engineering, Ogbonna Godsfavour, 300 level student of Anatomy, Ngene Comfort, 300 level student of Psychology, and Nduh Hephzibah, 300 level student of Law. Three of the students made it to the semifinals – occupying the op 8 novice speakers in the tournament, while two proceeded to the novice finals.

During the award ceremony, the organizers highlighted and commended Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, for the extraordinary performances of its students across board, and named the institution the Public Speaking champion, defeating numerous other universities that participated in the competition.

It is also instructive to noted that two students of the university: Nkwuda Martha, 300 level student of Law and Egwu Gold, 100 level student of Nursing Science, served as adjudicators all through the 7 preliminary rounds of the tournament and performed exceptionally well.

The team was led by Mr. Nwabunne Igweadiani, a lecturer in the Department of English and Literary Studies of the university.

While commending the team for making the university proud at the tourney, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sunday Elom, noted that his administration will continue to give the students of the university the necessary support and exposure to excel in their academic activities and other aspects of life to ensure they contribute meaningfully to national development on graduation.
He commended the impact of the Language Enhancement Programme of the university in improving the spoken and written English of the students and their capacity for logical reasoning, and further applauded the staff adviser to the Debate team, Igweadiani, for his resourcefulness in training the team.

support ebonyi government to compensate land owners, to vacate varsity campus – ae-funai vc appeals to fg
The Vice-Chancellor of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi state, Prof. Sunday Elom, has appealed to the Federal Government to support Ebonyi State Government to compensate and resettle the university’s land owners to enable them vacate the campus for meaningful development.
The Vice-Chancellor made the appeal yesterday in response to the remarks of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Students’ Engagements, Hon. Comrade Asefon Sunday, during his official visit to the university as part of the Safe School Initiative campaign.

“I want to commend the President for his determination to revive the university system through the Renewed Hope Agenda. I also commend the Government for the Students’ Loan Scheme and the Safe School Initiative and Security Architecture in the country, and equally applaud the Ebonyi State Governor, Rt. Hon. Francis Nwifuru for his people-oriented policies, especially his plan to revitalize education in the State.
“As a university, we are seriously challenged because the original owners of the land where the university is situated are still living on campus because they have not been compensated and resettled by the Ebonyi State Government that donated the land to the federal government

“Because of this, we have not been able to completely fence the campus. This has been a source of worry to us. I therefore, appeal for the intervention of the federal government in the matter. I strongly appeal that the federal government support the Ebonyi state government to resettle the indigenes to enable them vacate the campus for all-round development to take place.”
Earlier in his speech, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Students’ Engagement, Hon. Comrade Asefon noted that the Tinubu’s administration is passionate about education, noting that the Students’ Loan Scheme and the Safe Schools Initiative project of the administration were intended to scale-up access to education to all Nigerians and also provide safe and conducive environment for teaching and learning in schools.

He noted that through the project, government is constructing perimeter fencing and providing CCTV cameras and solar street lights in schools to ensure the security of lives and property. He reiterated that the President is passionate and sincere about education, especially the safety of students and teachers.
He further assured that the federal government would provide some CNG buses to university campuses to ameliorate the hardship caused by high cost of transportation.

In concluding, he commended the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Elom, for the quality of academic activities in the university, adding that the institution has developed a reputation as a high-flying citadel of learning in Nigeria, and promised to assist the university in bridging some of its infrastructural challenges.

ae-funai parents’ forum: the transformative power of shared efforts
In the heart of Ebonyi State, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, stands as a beacon of light in the Nigerian University System. Alongside its visionary leadership, competent and dedicated staff, and highly enthusiastic and open-minded students, a group of heroes are quietly but significantly contributing to the steady progress the university has made in the last 3 years of Prof. Sunday Elom’s administration as Vice-Chancellor.
The AE-FUNAI Parents Forum is a body of like-minds comprising of parents and guardians of students of the university. This body, which is driven by a deep-rooted commitment to their children’s education and the betterment of the university at large, has been the driving force behind a series of impactful infrastructural projects that have significantly enhanced the university standing, and actively shaping a brighter future for generations to come.

Founded in August 2016, and arguably the first of its kind in the Nigerian Public Universities, with the vision of bridging the infrastructural gap in the institution, the Forum has today evolved into a dynamic community of stakeholders committed to ensuring that the University’s facilities and resources meet the highest standards. Through its collaborative efforts and unwavering support, the forum has made remarkable strides in transforming the campus environment and fostering a conducive learning atmosphere for all.

Led by a proactive and enterprising Chairman, Engr. Chidi Onwe Oga, the Parents’ Forum has spearheaded a remarkable array of initiatives that have left an indelible mark on the campus. The signature achievement of the AE-FUNAI Parents Forum, is its leading role in executing some infrastructural projects that have significantly uplifted the university.
From refurbishing some university buildings and constructing new ones to enhancing campus amenities and providing engineering equipment, the forum has been instrumental in mobilizing resources, overseeing the successful completion of various initiatives, and contributing to overall infrastructural development of the University
Part of its most visible contributions in the last 3 years was the installation of more than 4,000 high quality pews in the University’s lecture halls, providing students with comfortable seats to learn. In addition, the Forum has also provided 15 Public Address Systems for all faculties to enable the lecturers discharge their teaching activities effectively, especially during large classes. The lecture seats and Public Address Systems have helped in the seamless delivery of teaching and learning activities, helping students to be more focused in their studies. This has had a measurable impact on the academic performance of students.

The Parents Forum’s efforts have extended far beyond the classroom. They have also embarked on the construction of 2.5-kilometer perimeter fence meant to wall the entire campus, ensuring the safety and security of the entire university community, which the Forum’s Chairman remarked that “Parents can now be rest assured that their children are safe on campus”. This has given everyone peace of mind and allowed the students to concentrate on their studies without the fear of intrusion by criminal elements.

Additionally, three new bungalows have been erected in the staff quarters, providing comfortable accommodations for some of the university’s devoted staff. The staff quarters have been transformative, as it has aided in attracting and retaining top academic talents, and ensuring that both staff and students work, study, live and interact as one community. A sizeable number of staff now live on campus, providing a sense of security assurance to students, unlike when the entire university workforce was living outside the campus.

Cyborg, [25-Apr-24 12:25 PM]
Another significant undertaking of the Parents’ Forum was the construction of a modern toilet facility in the male hostel and water boreholes in the female hostels. This vital improvement has not only addressed a longstanding issue that had been a source of concern for many students, but has also contributed to the overall well-being and hygiene of the student population, giving the students opportunity to have access to clean, well-maintained bathrooms and toilets, which have significantly improved their daily lives.

The commitment of the Forum to students’ comfort and well-being extends further to the installation of 400 Orbit fans throughout the hostels, providing a refreshing relief from the warm climate. Furthermore, they have procured 200 high-quality mattresses for the students’ dormitories, ensuring good rest sessions for the young scholars. The 400 Orbit fans and 200 new mattresses have provided an enhanced level of comfort that has been hugely appreciated by the students’ body. Students now have a more pleasant living and learning environment, which allows them to focus on both their studies and extracurricular activities.

Beyond these tangible projects, the Parents’ Forum has also played a pivotal role in the maintenance and renovation of the existing students’ hostels. Through their tireless efforts and generous contributions, the living conditions in these facilities have been significantly improved, creating a more cohesive, community-driven atmosphere in the hostels, and students now have a greater sense of pride and ownership in their living spaces.
In appreciation of the extraordinary contributions of the AE-FUNAI Parents’ Forum to the infrastructural development of the university over the years, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Elom noted that the Forum has been a worthy partner. He maintained that through the support of the organization, the university has been able to bridge some infrastructural gaps.

He maintained that government alone cannot adequately fund university education in Nigeria, and called for a collaborative efforts among critical stakeholders in pooling resources together to fund education in Nigeria.
The Vice-Chancellor stressed that the success of the AE-FUNAI Parents’ Forum is a testament of the fact that with concerted efforts by all segments of the society, Nigeria will become a better place. He therefore advocated for a cost sharing approach for the funding of university education in Nigeria.

In concluding, the AE-FUNAI Parents’ Forum has emerged as a vital and indispensable partner in the growth and development of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State. The very many initiatives and contributions of the Forum have helped to alleviate the strain on existing infrastructure and accommodate the growing students’ population in the university. Their dedication has created a ripple effect that has touched every corners of the campus. Indeed, the forum has helped to create a more pleasing and functional campus environment for students, staff, and visitors alike.
As the university community looks to the future, the AE-FUNAI Parents Forum stands as a shining example of the transformative power of shared values – classic instance of what can be achieved when a group of passionate, invested individuals come together for a common cause. Their legacy of infrastructural development and student-centric initiatives will undoubtedly continue to shape the academic landscape of the university in the years to come.Cyborg, [25-Apr-24 12:25 PM]
ae-funai parents’ forum: the transformative power of shared efforts
In the heart of Ebonyi State, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, stands as a beacon of light in the Nigerian University System. Alongside its visionary leadership, competent and dedicated staff, and highly enthusiastic and open-minded students, a group of heroes are quietly but significantly contributing to the steady progress the university has made in the last 3 years of Prof. Sunday Elom’s administration as Vice-Chancellor.
The AE-FUNAI Parents Forum is a body of like-minds comprising of parents and guardians of students of the university. This body, which is driven by a deep-rooted commitment to their children’s education and the betterment of the university at large, has been the driving force behind a series of impactful infrastructural projects that have significantly enhanced the university standing, and actively shaping a brighter future for generations to come.

Founded in August 2016, and arguably the first of its kind in the Nigerian Public Universities, with the vision of bridging the infrastructural gap in the institution, the Forum has today evolved into a dynamic community of stakeholders committed to ensuring that the University’s facilities and resources meet the highest standards. Through its collaborative efforts and unwavering support, the forum has made remarkable strides in transforming the campus environment and fostering a conducive learning atmosphere for all.

Led by a proactive and enterprising Chairman, Engr. Chidi Onwe Oga, the Parents’ Forum has spearheaded a remarkable array of initiatives that have left an indelible mark on the campus. The signature achievement of the AE-FUNAI Parents Forum, is its leading role in executing some infrastructural projects that have significantly uplifted the university.
From refurbishing some university buildings and constructing new ones to enhancing campus amenities and providing engineering equipment, the forum has been instrumental in mobilizing resources, overseeing the successful completion of various initiatives, and contributing to overall infrastructural development of the University
Part of its most visible contributions in the last 3 years was the installation of more than 4,000 high quality pews in the University’s lecture halls, providing students with comfortable seats to learn. In addition, the Forum has also provided 15 Public Address Systems for all faculties to enable the lecturers discharge their teaching activities effectively, especially during large classes. The lecture seats and Public Address Systems have helped in the seamless delivery of teaching and learning activities, helping students to be more focused in their studies. This has had a measurable impact on the academic performance of students.

The Parents Forum’s efforts have extended far beyond the classroom. They have also embarked on the construction of 2.5-kilometer perimeter fence meant to wall the entire campus, ensuring the safety and security of the entire university community, which the Forum’s Chairman remarked that “Parents can now be rest assured that their children are safe on campus”. This has given everyone peace of mind and allowed the students to concentrate on their studies without the fear of intrusion by criminal elements.

Additionally, three new bungalows have been erected in the staff quarters, providing comfortable accommodations for some of the university’s devoted staff. The staff quarters have been transformative, as it has aided in attracting and retaining top academic talents, and ensuring that both staff and students work, study, live and interact as one community. A sizeable number of staff now live on campus, providing a sense of security assurance to students, unlike when the entire university workforce was living outside the campus.

Cyborg, [25-Apr-24 12:25 PM]
Another significant undertaking of the Parents’ Forum was the construction of a modern toilet facility in the male hostel and water boreholes in the female hostels. This vital improvement has not only addressed a longstanding issue that had been a source of concern for many students, but has also contributed to the overall well-being and hygiene of the student population, giving the students opportunity to have access to clean, well-maintained bathrooms and toilets, which have significantly improved their daily lives.

The commitment of the Forum to students’ comfort and well-being extends further to the installation of 400 Orbit fans throughout the hostels, providing a refreshing relief from the warm climate. Furthermore, they have procured 200 high-quality mattresses for the students’ dormitories, ensuring good rest sessions for the young scholars. The 400 Orbit fans and 200 new mattresses have provided an enhanced level of comfort that has been hugely appreciated by the students’ body. Students now have a more pleasant living and learning environment, which allows them to focus on both their studies and extracurricular activities.

Beyond these tangible projects, the Parents’ Forum has also played a pivotal role in the maintenance and renovation of the existing students’ hostels. Through their tireless efforts and generous contributions, the living conditions in these facilities have been significantly improved, creating a more cohesive, community-driven atmosphere in the hostels, and students now have a greater sense of pride and ownership in their living spaces.
In appreciation of the extraordinary contributions of the AE-FUNAI Parents’ Forum to the infrastructural development of the university over the years, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Elom noted that the Forum has been a worthy partner. He maintained that through the support of the organization, the university has been able to bridge some infrastructural gaps.

He maintained that government alone cannot adequately fund university education in Nigeria, and called for a collaborative efforts among critical stakeholders in pooling resources together to fund education in Nigeria.
The Vice-Chancellor stressed that the success of the AE-FUNAI Parents’ Forum is a testament of the fact that with concerted efforts by all segments of the society, Nigeria will become a better place. He therefore advocated for a cost sharing approach for the funding of university education in Nigeria.

In concluding, the AE-FUNAI Parents’ Forum has emerged as a vital and indispensable partner in the growth and development of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State. The very many initiatives and contributions of the Forum have helped to alleviate the strain on existing infrastructure and accommodate the growing students’ population in the university. Their dedication has created a ripple effect that has touched every corners of the campus. Indeed, the forum has helped to create a more pleasing and functional campus environment for students, staff, and visitors alike.
As the university community looks to the future, the AE-FUNAI Parents Forum stands as a shining example of the transformative power of shared values – classic instance of what can be achieved when a group of passionate, invested individuals come together for a common cause. Their legacy of infrastructural development and student-centric initiatives will undoubtedly continue to shape the academic landscape of the university in the years to come.

AE-FUNAI DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMICS AND DEVELOPMENT STUDIES HOSTS 2ND INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON ECONOMIC TRANSFORMATION WITH A CALL FOR EQUITABLE DISTRIBUTION OF RESOURCES
The Department of Economics and Development Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State has concluded its 2nd International Conference themed: “Economic Transformation in a Digital Era: Building Innovative and Sustainable pathway”, with a call for an equitable distribution of wealth to ensure social justice, and thereby pave the way for a more inclusive society.
The conference which held at the Needs Assessment building of the University, was geared towards proffering innovative pathways for achieving sustainable economic development in Nigeria.

Declaring the conference open, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Sunday Elom, who was represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic, Prof. Romanus Ejiaga commended the department for their thoughtfulness and insight in hosting the conference, noting that the topic of the conference was relevant, given the downward trend in the Nigeria's economy which has been worrisome for political leaders, economists, policy makers and Nigerians in general.
He stated that digital technologies have already transformed how people communicate, learn and work, emphasizing that changing the geography of economic activity through their impact on corporate strategies will enhance economic growth.

Speaking further, the Vice Chancellor noted that the needs of the present generation should be met without compromising the needs of the future generations, and charged participants to assimilate the dynamics of economics to help them identify valuable innovative trends.
Earlier in his speech, the Head, Department of Economic and Development Studies, Prof. Kalu Uma, stated that economic transformation in a digital era involves harnessing the power of digital technologies to create innovative and sustainable pathways which can lead to increased productivity and improved quality of life.
He added that the conference was meant to create a platform for engagements in order to explore new ideas and knowledge in the field of economics. He therefore urged every participant to take advantage of the conference to acquire new knowledge for a better tomorrow.

Speaking further, he appreciated the Vice Chancellor for his constant support to the department, stating that his attention and interest in such innovative programs has continued to encourage the department.
The Keynote speaker, Prof. Uwazie Iyke Uwazie, during his lecture, said sustainable development is a pathway towards an equitable, prosperous future, ensuring that todays’ progress does not compromise the wellbeing of the future generation.
He listed the different types of sustainable development t include Economic, Social and Environmental Sustainability, and harped on the need to sustain them which arises from the pressing global challenges like, climate change, resource depletion, and socio-economic disparities.

He also hinted that the rapidly increasing global population brings about a critical concern which centers on overexploitation of natural resources and their ways of consumption especially from fossil fuel to fresh water that depletes these vital resources at an unsustainable pace.
He further noted that sustainable development calls for equitable distribution of wealth, by ensuring social justice to pave way for a more inclusive society, adding that creation of opportunities and adoption of sustainable practices can create new industries and jobs, particularly in sectors that are viable.
Concluding, the scholar stressed that innovative and sustainable development pathways for national growth and development is a collective deliberation that involves collective agreement rather than that of an individual or government.
There were also other resources persons that present thought-provoking papers at the conference, all geared towards proffering solutions to the intractable economic challenges facing Nigeria.

community service: ae-funai partners ikwo lga to train teachers on pedagogical techniques
As part of its contributions to the development of its immediate community, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi state through its Faculty of Education has partnered with the Ikwo Local Government Area, to organize a two-day workshop for selected primary and junior Secondary School teachers in the area.
The workshop which has the Theme: “Application of Pedagogical Skills in Classroom Management for Effective Teaching and Learning” was declared open by the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Sunday Elom on Thursday, 18th April, 2024 at the auditorium of the Ebonyi State College of Education, Ikwo.




The capacity building workshop was geared towards defining the mandates of 21st century teachers for the enhancement of professionalism at all levels, and the growth and development of the country.
While declaring the event open, the Vice-Chancellor who was represented by the Dean, Faculty of Health and Allied Sciences, Prof. Moses Alo, commended the organizers of the programme for their thoughtfulness in holding such a strategic workshop, given its would-be positive impact on the teachers and students.

He appreciated the effort of the Chairman, Ikwo Local Government Area, Barr. Sunday Nwankwo for collaborating with the university to enhance the skill-sets of teachers in the area, noting that the workshop will have a direct impact on the well-being of Ikwo community, urging other Local Government Areas in the State to emulate the initiative.
Prof. Elom further called for synergy between the University and the Ikwo Local Government Area to ensure that the numerous benefits of the institution are felt in the host community. He therefore urged the participants to make good use of the opportunity provided by the workshop to enhance their knowledge and build their skills on teaching methodology.

Contributing, the Hon. Commissioner for Education, Ebonyi State, Prof. Paul Nwobashi, said the objective of the workshop was to promote teaching and learning in the educational system of the State and ensure that teachers comply with the new trends of teaching, adding that community service is one of the core mandates of the university system. He stressed the importance of primary and junior secondary education in the development of citizens, adding that without primary education, “we are in trouble”.
He expressed his satisfaction on the turnout of teachers at the event, reminding them of the need for the standardization of basic education by ensuring the use of modern teaching methods to teach, stressing that it is only when the primary education is standardized that we can migrate to secondary education. He therefore urged the Faculty of Education of the University to strengthen the institution’s relationship with communities across the state for proper sensitization.

Earlier in her opening remarks, the Acting Dean, Faculty of Education, and Organizer of the workshop, Dr. Ntasiobi Igu, commended the participants for their willingness to be part of the workshop, stating that the purpose was to help teachers update their knowledge with innovative pedagogical skills for effective classroom management. She maintained that the importance of the University/community relationship in improving the quality of education cannot be overemphasized.
She further affirmed that the slogan ‘’No teacher, no nation’’ is never arguable because teachers are the builders of the society, adding that once they are well-equipped, they would perform above the expectations and imaginations of the society.
Dr. Igu noted that the 21st century is the age of information and technology, stressing that the children of this age are digital natives and smart kids who must be approached with teaching methods that meet their leaning needs, reiterating that the Faculty of Education, AE-FUNAI is desirous of seeing that the processes of teaching and learning in schools in Ikwo LGA are effective and efficient.
She thanked the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Elom for his approval while extending her unreserved appreciation to the Chairman of Ikwo LGA, Barr. Nwankwo, for supporting and partnering with the university on the workshop.

Dr. Francisca Ogba, while delivering a lecture titled: “Teachers Personality Trait in 21st Century Classroom; Promoting Classroom Effectiveness among Smart Kids”, pointed out some assumptions about teachers’ personality traits which include; competence, confident, responsible, resourcefulness and respectful amongst others. She noted that in the 21st century, knowledge and abilities were character traits which students need to develop, adding that they were the necessary skills that every student must master to meet up with the demands of the present age in order to achieve academic excellence.
She mentioned that technology has brought solutions to many of education’s core problems such as the lack of teaching materials, student under achievement and the growing achievement gap between the rich and poor learners.
Concluding, Dr. Ogba stressed that to maintain effective classroom, a teacher should be abreast with innovative teaching strategies, communicate effectively, be disciplined, resourceful as well as be a role model. ‘’A good teacher is like a candle- it consumes itself to light the way for others’’, she said.


In the same vein, the Head, University Counselling Unit, Dr. Eunice Eze who espoused the topic: “Teachers Mentorship Roles in Nurturing Emotional Intelligence in Learners”, noted that the position of a teacher transcends mere dissemination of information; it encompasses shaping of minds, nurturing capabilities and fostering holistic improvement.

She stated that in nurturing emotional intelligence in learners, teachers should empower students to succeed not only academically but also as compassionate, resilient, and emotionally intelligent individuals. ‘’Let’s raise a generation of leaders who understand themselves and others, making the world a better place, filled with emotionally intelligent persons’’, she said.


In his goodwill message, the Chairman of Ikwo Loca Government Area, Barr. Nwankwo, commended the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof Elom for making the workshop a reality, assuring him that the program will be taking place every long vacation in order to equip teachers with the right skill-sets to operate in the present digital age.
He enjoined the teachers to make good use of the opportunity provided by the program, so that the Ikwo LGA would take a lead when it comes to teaching and learning in Ebonyi state.

In line with the serious academic culture the university is reputed for and to officially welcome, introduce and inculcate into the newly admitted students the principles and standards guiding their studies, Alex EKwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, has held a one-day orientation program for the 2023/2024 academic session new intakes.
While declaring the program open, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sunday Elom, noted that students were the main reason for establishing a university, adding that the orientation Program was necessary to enlighten them on the culture, philosophy, core values, and rules and regulations guiding the University and its environment. He therefore, charged them to respect all constituted authorities in order to go through the university without hitches.

The Vice-Chancellor, who was represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Administration, Prof. Abel Ezeoha, advised the students to take their studies seriously, as the University is reputed as one of the most serious universities in the country, and urged them to shun cultism, truancy, examination malpractices, indecent dressing and other vices that would paint the towering image of the University in bad light.
Prof Elom also encouraged the freshmen to respect the culture and values of the university’s host community to avoid having problems with the indigenes, assuring them of their security while on campus.
He further noted that the university has a team of well-trained staff and professionals, and facilities to guide them through learning, while encouraging the students to feel free to seek for advice and assistance when confused as the staff are on ground to help them succeed.


Contributing, the Registrar, Barr. Ifeanyi Igwe, rolled out the Codes of Conduct as it affects students, admonishing the freshmen to abstain from criminal activities and social vices like theft, violence, examination malpractice, cultism, intimidation, assault amongst many others. He warned that breaching any of the rules and regulations as contained in the Students’ Handbook would attract appropriate and sanction.

In the same vein, the University Librarian, Dr. Juliana Akidi educated the newly admitted students on the Use of the Library and its importance in achieving academic excellence, adding that “readers are leaders”.
She enjoined the students to always make use of the University Library because it is well stocked with soft and hard copies of current texts, and important databases in different fields that are expected of a modern standard university Library with appropriate professionals to attend to them at all times.

Similarly, the University Bursar, Dr. Kingsley Oyekezie, who was represented by Clementine Uzoije, informed the freshmen that the only way they could be regarded as bonafide students is through the payment of all the approved charges, adding that without it they would not be able to complete their registration, and thus, are not ‘ real students’.
He further took them through the modes of payments and the consequences of not paying the approved charges on their studentship.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Ag. Dean, Students’ Affairs, Dr. Charles Okolie congratulated the new students for securing admission into the University despite the large number of candidates that applied to study in the institution, reminding them that the university is for serious- minded students.
He stated that the university environment offers the students the opportunity to be self-reliant and to take responsibility for what they do, stressing that if they do not measure up to the required standard, they will be shown the way out.
Dr. okolie further advised the students to have a settled mind and seek for help when needed, strike a balance between social and academic programs, shun cultism and gangsterism and strive for a good grades by setting some goals for themselves and make sure they work hard to achieve them, adding that extracurricular activities were also linked to high student engagement and success.
On the issue of Security Matters and Security Consciousness, the Chief Security officer of the University, Emeka Ogayi who was represented by Mr. Kelechi Nwali, enjoined the students to be security conscious in the face of threat, enumerating a number of counter measures to be used in a situation of danger with the purpose of ensuring safety. He affirmed that the university has put in place measures to prevent and arrest any threatening situation on the campus for their safety, urging them to avoid any behavior that could lead to crisis.
Other speakers at the event were; Prof. Amobi Ekwe (DAP), who spoke on Academic Issues: Probation/withdrawal/rustication/expulsion, Mr. Ohaekelem Godson talked on SERVICOM (Service Delivery), Mr. Mathew Eze spoke on ICT Management, Barr. Ogochukwu Onuora talked on Prevention of Sexual Violence/Harassment , Arch. Ifeanyi Chukwu spoke on Green Initiative/Campus in a Garden, Prof. Friday Nwalo talked on Ikwo and its environs, Nwakpu Kelechi spoke on Health Management: The Youth and Drug Abuse; Prevention and Control, Dr. Williams Osatuyi talked on Anti-Corruption and Campus cultism, Dr. Arua Oko talked on Good Moral Conduct/Proper Dressing and Dr. Eunice Eze dwelt on the Need for Counseling in the university, all advocating towards the wellbeing of the new students on campus.

AE-FUNAI FACULTY OF LAW DONATES 500 TREE SEEDLINGS TO KICK-OFF 2024 TREE PLANTING CAMPAIGN
The Faculty of Law, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike Ebonyi State, has donated 500 tree seedlings in support of the 2024 tree planting campaign, geared towards promoting the Campus-Green Initiative of the university.
While kicking- off the 2024 tree planting campaign in the Faculty, the Acting Dean, Faculty of Law, Dr. Eseni Azu Udu, noted that the main goal of the campaign was to support the Campus-Green Initiative of the University, which is meant to build one of the most beautiful and eco-friendly campuses in Nigeria.


He maintained that the purpose of the tree planting was also to create a better environment for the university in the future, adding that the establishment of the Campus -Green Initiative has led to the preservation and promotion of the natural ecosystem of the campus.
Udu further commended the efforts of the Directorate of Campus-Green Initiative in ensuring a yearly tree planting campaign in the university and encouraged staff and students to support the Initiative in order to secure the environment of the Faculty through planting of tree, adding that in the next 5 years, people will start to see the benefits of the trees.

He further commended some students that contributed money in support of the tree planting exercise in the Faculty and urged others to support the initiative for the sake of posterity.
Acting Director, Campus-Green Initiative, Arc. Ifeanyi Chukwu, noted that the greening initiative of the university is the first of its kind in southeast, Nigeria, adding that in the nearest future the University will serve and become a tourist center for people because of the magnitude and different shades of trees that were being planted in the campus. He further urged the students to continue to donate in support of the initiative.

Also speaking at the event, the President of the Law Students Association, AE-FUNAI chapter, Mr. Chukwujieze Wisdom thanked the Management for initiating the idea to change the University environment through tree planting, and applauded the students that donated trees for the exercise. He also urged others to partner with the Directorate of Campus-Green Initiative to ensure that the purpose of the initiative was achieved.

Highlight of the event was the planting of trees by students to improve the environment of their faculty.

WHY touch Andrew Tate? he wants men to be strong and provide for their families but you see that as toxic?

• Inducts new students into engineering community
As part of activities marking the NUESA week, the students of the Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, on Friday, 12th April, 2024 held the 2nd edition of the Nigerian Universities Engineering Students Association (NUESA) Week, with the theme ‘’Engineering Innovation for More Resilient World’’, aimed at inspiring innovative solutions to global challenges.
The two-day event which started on Thursday, 11th to Friday, 12th April, 2024, commenced with different activities ranging from field visits, debates, quiz competitions as well as paper presentations, where participants from various Engineering departments showcased their knowledge and skills.

Delivering the keynote speech of the event titled ‘’Engineering Innovation for More Resilient world’’, the Dean, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Engr. Prof. Charles Ezugwu emphasized the theme’s importance in shaping a resilient future, stressing that innovation is important in the field of Engineering as it drives progress and helps engineers develop new solutions to complex problems. He enjoined the students to appreciate the importance of innovation to enable them compete globally.
He equally noted that Engineers play a crucial role in addressing some of the world’s biggest challenges, from climate change to infrastructural development through resource management and sustainability, adding that as students, they are expected to start now to learn how to develop new ideas towards solving engineering and other societal problems.

Ezugwu speaking further, maintained that as we face uncertainty globally, engineers should play the role of creating a sustainable, resilient and equitable world in foreseeing and fulfilling the needs for the future in a sustainable manner.
He thanked the Vice-Chancellor, Prof Sunday Elom for the opportunity to hold the event, while appreciating the students for organizing the program, assuring them of his continuous fatherly advice and assistance.

Also speaking at the event, Mr. Chime Chinonso, who spoke on the intersection of entrepreneurship and technology, charged the students to harness their engineering skills for entrepreneurial ventures. He advised them to be focused on their studies and to adopt the use of artificial intelligence to maximize their potentials.
He equally enjoined them to imbibe the power of friendship and inter-connectivity, as that is the only way to go far in life, stressing that greater is achieved when you are in a team.

Earlier in his opening remarks, the President of NUESA, AE-FUNAI Chapter, Comrade Agba Augustine, noted that the 2nd edition of the NUESA week and Technical Exhibition marked a significant milestone in promoting engineering excellence and innovation, adding that the event underscored the vibrant spirit and collective efforts of the engineering community in shaping a more resilient world through innovation and collaboration.
He expressed gratitude to his team and participants for their support in making the event a reality, while extolling the Dean of the faculty and the Vice-Chancellor, for their unwavering support and approval of the event.
He highlighted some activities the students embarked on during the NUESA week to include technical visit and excursion which gave the students the opportunity to visit the school’s solar plant station and First Patriot Limited, gaining practical insights into real-world engineering applications, sporting activities to promote physical fitness and teamwork among participants, debate and quiz competitions to enrich the understanding of engineering principles and concepts, amongst others.

Highlights of the event was the induction of 100 and 200 levels Engineering students into the Engineering community by the NUESA President, AE-FUNAI Chapter, Comrade Agba Augustine, presentation of medals to departments with the highest score, presentation of trophy to the department that won in football tournament and presentation of portrait to the Faculty Dean in appreciation of his sterling leadership.

Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State has been ranked 18 among Nigerian Universities in the 2024 Times Higher Education Universities Ranking. In the ranking which was released recently. AE-FUNAI was ranked among top 39 universities in Nigeria.
The Times Higher Education is a globally-acclaimed London-based publication that focuses on issues and news related to higher education. Its ranking is based on 5 indicators – teaching, research environment, research quality, knowledge transfer and international outlook.

In the past 3 years of Prof. Sunday Elom’s stewardship as Vice-Chancellor, the university has continued to make steady and assured progress in world universities rankings, and becoming an emerging top education brand in Africa and one of the most sought-after universities in Nigeria based on verifiable evidence in its teaching, research and community service activities.
While expressing joy on the feat, the Vice-Chancellor noted that he was not going to rest on his oars until the university takes its place among the best in Nigeria and beyond. He also commended the staff and students for their various research outputs and intellectual successes and contributions which have put the university on the global stage.

The Vice-Chancellor, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Prof. Sunday Elom, has charged students of the university to say no to illicit drugs in order to be able to contribute positively to the development of the country.

The Vice Chancellor who was represented by the Dean, School of Postgraduate Studies, Prof. Nwabueze Elom, gave the charge on Tuesday, 2nd April, 2024 during a one day Drug Sensitization Program held at the NEEDS Assessment building of the university, themed ‘’The Dangers of the Use of Illicit Drugs in our Educational System’’.
Prof. Elom, while declaring the program open, appreciated the Redeemer Drugs Eradication Club of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, for their sacrifice in bringing such program to the university, noting that the theme; ‘’The Dangers of the use of Illicit Drugs in our Educational System’’ was very apt as many universities were battling with the issues of cultism and drug abuse among students.
He added that the drug menace requires strong stand from governments at all levels and other agencies in order to address the issue .
He advised the students to stay away from drugs and focus on their studies to enable them come out with good result, stressing that anyone who takes drugs that is not prescribed by a doctor is endangering his health and automatically destroying their body system.

Mr. Goodwill Erepa, of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), who talked on “Dangers of Drug Abuse”, noted that any chemical that goes into the system and causes changes to the body is a drug, adding that any irregular preparation that goes into the body has power to alter the system.
He pointed out the challenges that come with drug addiction to include health challenges, severe damage to the central nervous system, emotional instability and mental instability as a result of using crystal meth, which the youths refer to as “mkpurumiri”, which can lead to public nuisance, suicide and homicide.
He also emphasized the need for students to connect with the right persons and focus on their studies, adding that when students make themselves busy, they will not have the time to do drugs.

Contributing, Pastor Ralph Obum, in his topic titled ‘’The Effect of Drug on Human Beings”, averred that when the brain is affected, the whole body is also affected, urging the university management to establish a Drug- free Club to encourage former drug users to regain themselves.
He enjoined staff and students to avoid any form of discrimination and stigmatization of drug- addicted persons, but rather treat them with love, empathy and confidentiality to enable them open up with a view to finding solutions to their problems.

- Bank Opens for business

It was joy unlimited for staff and students of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, and members of the institution’s host community as they witnessed yet another landmark achievement under the visionary leadership of Prof. Sunday Elom, as the AE-FUNAI Microfinance Bank Limited was inaugurated for business on Wednesday, 3rd April, 2024.

The AE-FUNAI Microfinance Bank Limited was granted operational license by the Central Bank of Nigeria on 29th February, 2024 to operate as a tier 1 unit financial institution, after about 5 years of waiting.


While speaking with joy at the auspicious occasion, the Vice-Chancellor thanked God for making the day a reality, stating that it took almost 5 years for the bank to be licensed by the CBN. He applauded the Managing Director and his team for their doggedness and resilience which led to the licensing of the bank, while also commending them for exhibiting transparency during the recruitment of staff into the bank.
The Vice-Chancellor equally commended the effort of his predecessor, Prof. Chinedum Nwajiuba for mooting the idea of floating a Microfinance bank in the university and also extended same to the 2nd Governing Council of the University under the chairmanship of the late Prof. Mba Uzoukwu and other stakeholders who in one way or the other contributed to the success story.

Prof. Elom further stressed that the last Governing Council of the University had approved that all payments in the university should be made through the bank, adding that the decision was in the best interest of the staff and students as it will ease the stress of going to the State capital, which is about 20 kilometers, for their banking transactions.
He also enjoined the management of the bank to leverage on the offer made by the CBN to secure Agricultural credit facilities for its customers.
The Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Bank, Mr. Cornelius Offia, in his welcome address noted that the bank which started its journey for registration and licensing on 24th December, 2019, to the glory of God was granted the final license on Thursday, 29th February, 2024, adding that AE-FUNAI MFB LTD bank is licensed to operate as Tier 1 Unit Microfinance Bank with over Two Hundred Million Naira (N200, 000,000) paid-up capital.

He noted that the strategic vision of the bank is “to become a world-class Microfinance Bank that will promote creative and innovative endeavours of entrepreneurs for economic transformation and development of the nation”, while its corporate mission is to ‘’provide world-class microfinance services at the least possible costs to clients that will enable them become competent and confident entrepreneurs, capable of self-employment, and to enhance the well-being of the stakeholders through innovative products and services’’.

Offia further affirmed that the bank in line with its vision, shall be offering different classes of deposits and credit products to meet the needs of its clients; as well as other financial services to encourage entrepreneurs and start-ups, adding that the bank will commence with hybrid operation using intranet for the first 3 months of operation and gradually digitalize in order to have a handshake with NIBBS and interswitch, while appreciating the university management and the shareholders for believing in them.
Also speaking at the event, the Branch Controller, Central Bank of Nigeria, Abakaliki, Mr. Daniel Ogbogu who felicitated with the Vice-Chancellor and the University community for the wonderful achievement of establishing a Microfinance Bank in the institution, added that it has brought banking activities to the door steps of staff and students, and even closer to the University host community, which hitherto had no bank in its domain.

The Branch Controller, who was represented by the Head, Development Finance Office, Sir Chijioke Ahuakagha noted that AE-FUNAI Microfinance Bank Limited is the 11th Microfinance Bank in Ebonyi State, urging the bank’s management team to buckle up as competitions abound, even as he maintained that the only way to stand-out among other MFBs in the state was to think-out-of-the-box.

He further stated that as a regulator of financial institutions, CBN is ever ready to give the bank advisory and other necessary supports, and urged the leadership to strictly adhere to laid down rules and regulations as well as conform with banking best practices to avoid infractions.

Continuing, Mr. Ogbogu, noted that the AE-FUNAI Microfinance Bank Limited will be the safest bank around because it is situated inside the campus, thereby giving customers the confidence for huge patronage, even as he enjoined the management to use it as a marketing strategy and give their customers the excellent service they desire.

He equally offered a special banking product called the Agricultural Credit Guarantee Fund to the management of the bank to enable them attract more customers as well as encourage farmers to access loans for their Small and Medium Scale Enterprises.


A non-Executive Director representimg the interest of AE-FUNAI Multipurpose Cooperative Society, Dr. Onuorah Nweke during a goodwill message commended the leadership of the bank for their integrity and forthrightness right from the University management and those who have been carrying out preliminary arrangement since inception of the project, adding that their transparency has increased the confidence of the shareholders.

He reiterated that the shareholders will continue to give their support and encouragement by participating in any area that can move the bank forward.

There were other goodwill messages from some banking institutions such as the First Bank of Nigeria Plc, who commended the university on the feat, and equally promised to partner with the bank in mutually-benefitting businesses.

The Department of Theatre Arts, Faculty of Humanities, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, joined the rest of the World to commemorate the 2024 World Theatre Day.
Introduced by the International Theatre Institute (ITI) in 1962, and celebrated every 27th of March, the World Theatre day became sacrosanct for the international theatre institute and practitioners around the world.
The initiation of the World Theatre Day in 1962 was aimed at promoting the values and importance of theatre arts across the world by highlighting its role in cultural exchange, social cohesion, and creative expression.
While declaring the event open, the Vice-Chancellor of the University Prof. Sunday Elom represented by the Deputy Vice- Chancellor, Administration, Prof. Abel Ezeoha, said the World Theatre Day is a day when various art events such as performances, workshops, and discussions take place globally to celebrate the art of theatre and its significance in society.
He therefore enjoined everyone to seize the opportunity to acquire relevant knowledge about the importance of the day in human development.
The Vice-Chancellor commended the Theatre Arts Department of the university for the time, energy and resources they had put together to ensure that AEFUNAI is highlighted during this year’s world theatre day celebration and for seeking out seasoned educational and industry personalities to educate the students.
In his remarks, the Acting Dean, Faculty of Humanities, Dr. Onuorah Nweke said that this year’s World Theatre Day celebration with the Theme ‘’Theatre: A Culture of Peace in Search of Development’’ is topical as it touches the very essence of humanity, stressing that where there is no peace, there can never be any development.
He further stressed that theatre has pursued and leveraged on peace for a better society.
He however urged the government, organized private sector and philanthropic individuals to come to the aid of the department as it is in dire need of physical structures to support the Arts Theatre Auditorium which has been overstretched.
Earlier in a welcome speech, the Head, Department of Theatre Arts, Dr. Bernard Eze Orji, said the theme of the celebration cannot be overemphasized as it was conceived with an intention to seek for partnership in the area of infrastructural development.
He called on friends and lovers of Arts to help the department by donating work equipment, power generator, computers, photocopiers and relevant books for the departmental library, to enable it fulfil its mandates.
He further said that as an annual event, the department will use the opportunity to recognize its patrons and supporters.
A former member of the House of Representatives and the author of a play titled ‘’Sipping Coffee With My Boss’’, Rt. Hon. Jerry Alagbaoso, commended the students for participating in the drama and urged them to work hard as the projectors of Arts.
He also appreciated the department for organizing the play and promised to give copies of his book to those that participated in the art performance, adding that the play interrogates the society and talks about the positive and the nagative sides of people involved in nation building, with a beam on the university community.
He urged the students to develop the passion of writing in order to become competent in different genres of literature, charging them to read voraciously to write irresistible stories worthy of publication.
In his keynote speech, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Africa, Toru-Orua, Bayelsa State, Prof. Barclays Ayakoroma, said that a dramatic piece is x-rayed on stage for an audience to share in the dreamer’s experience.
He noted that combining words, voice, movement and visual elements were expressions that pass message to audience, stating that the art of theatre is all encompassing in this regard, and therefore requires to be promoted to sustain its value.
He further emphasized that theatre does not only act as entertainment, but also serves as a mirror to the society and influences introspection and teaches people on how to express themselves effectively by developing the ability to communicate one’s thoughts and feelings.
He maintained that theatre is important to students because it improves knowledge, motivation, offers humor and laughter, and reduces stress.
He explained that community theatre is an important and valuable part of many communities around the world as it fosters a sense of inclusivity that encourages creativity and entertainment.
He added that community theatre plays a role of supporting the arts by bringing people together, noting that theatre represents life and human nature, encompassing a variety of subjects and issues through a wide perspective and is an excellent training ground for virtually any kind of job.
A renowned Nigerian thespian of the Nollywood Industry, Kanayo O. Kanayo while speaking on, ’’Becoming a Star in Nollywood’’, noted that for one to become a star, they must have the ability to work and focus on their goals, not money.
He said that acting is a display of innate abilities, therefore, it should be used to pass a message.
He urged the students not to relent but work hard to achieve their purpose and dreams in life.
The immediate past Vice-Chancellor of AE-FUNAI, Prof. Chinedum Nwajiuba who is also a patron of the Arts, expressed delight on seeing his brain child - the Theatre Arts Department mature to the level it has reached , and commended the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Elom for keeping the dream alive.
He pleaded for the sustenance of the dream, and called for unity of purpose and direction among staff in order to get the university to a higher pedestal.
Prof. Nwajiuba who also spoke on behalf of other awardees thanked the organizers for recognizing their efforts and contributions which translated to the award of honor, and promised his unwavering and sustained support to the department.
The highlights of the event were drama presentation, dance display and awards to some patrons of the Arts.

- Increases Medical Students’ Quota to 100
The Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN), the body charged with the responsibility of regulating the practice of Medicine, Dentistry and Alternative Medicine in Nigeria, has granted Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State the approval for First Clinical Accreditation for the Medicine and Surgery (MBBS) Programme of the institution.
The letter addressed to the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Sunday Elom dated 11th March, 2024 and signed by the Registrar/Chief Executive Officer of the Council, Dr. Fatima Kyari reads in part: “Following the report of the accreditation visitation team sent to your University on 22nd & 23rd February, 2024, I am to convey provisional approval for your University to be granted First Clinical Accreditation
“I am also to convey provisional approval for the increase in medical students’ quota from fifty (50) to One Hundred (100)”

With the First Clinical Accreditation approval, clinical students of the university can now sit for their 3rd professional medical examination (3rd MB), as the university continue the process that will lead to the graduation of its first set of medical doctors.
Since the commencement of the MBBS programme in AE-FUNAI in the 2017/2018 academic session, the University has maintained a steady progress towards making the programme one of its flagships, and more importantly, ensure that students go through the programme without the hitches often associated with medical education in many public universities in Nigeria.

The programme was first accredited to be run in the university in 2020 by the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria after its accreditation team visited the institution on 18th November, 2019. More so, on 27th April, 2021, after another round of accreditation visit, the Council further granted approval for Pre-Clinical Accreditation of the MBBS programme of the University, which ensured that qualified students were moved to the Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital Abakaliki, for clinical training.
The significance of these MBBS accreditations is that the University achieved all of it in the first attempts unlike what is often seen in most public universities, where it takes some institutions up to three or more attempts in each stage. The success achieved by the university in this regard is underscored by the irrevocable commitment of the Vice-Chancellor towards running an outstanding College of Medical Sciences in the University.

While breaking the news, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Elom noted that the First Clinical Accreditation of the MBBS programme was a milestone in the annals of the University, adding that the feat achieved by the institution in just one attempt takes other universities many years to attain.
He also assured of his administration’s unwavering commitment towards the training of medical officers with the necessary nuances, skills and knowledge to make positive impact in the medical profession. He however, urged the students to be serious-minded in their studies, and law-abiding and respectful to constituted authorities in order to fulfil their dreams.