₦airaland Forum

The President, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu- Alike Women Association (AE-FUNAI WA), an umbrella body of all female staff, Dr. Mrs. Chinyere Elom recently hosted the children of staff of the institution and its host community to a Christmas party to celebrate the goodness of God in 2022.
Over the past two years, she has consistently hosted the children to Christmas parties to mark the end of every year and more importantly to thank God for his grace and blessing celebration mood with


While declaring the ceremony held at the Abubakar Rasheed Auditorium open, Dr. Elom noted that children epitomize the Christmas spirit of selflessness, thus the need to celebrate with them to mark the end of the year.

She also admonished the children to celebrate the Christmas in the spirit of God, devoid of anything that may bring shame to their families nor taint their image.


While also speaking at the event, the Principal Assistant Registrar,Vice-Chancellor’s Office, Dr. Mrs. Uche Ufere-Okoroafor urged the children to keep away from bad company which is capable of leading them astray and prayed that the children will fulfill their purpose in life.

Highlights of the event include welcome songs and dances by the children even as the children visited the grotto to see and receive gifts from Santa Claus. The President of the association also offered gifts and prizes to the children.

The Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Raji Fashola has commissioned an internal road project in Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State.
The 0.6kM road linking the Chinedum Nwajiuba Senate Building to the College of Medical Sciences and Faculty of Law was reconstructed by the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing under the Federal Government intervention programme on tertiary institutions’ internal roads.

At the handing over ceremony yesterday, Mr. Fashola represented by the Federal Controller of Works, Ebonyi State, Engr. Steve Oluwadun, noted that the gap of infrastructure needs is steadily being bridged by a gradual process of repairs, renewal and construction on major highways and it has reached the schools.
He maintained that it was undebatable that the quality of education will be impacted by the quality of infrastructure and the learning environment and those who doubt it should simply listen to some of the feedback from students in the schools where this type of intervention has taken place.


The Minister further stated that the Federal government has successfully intervened in 64 road projects in various federal tertiary institutions and handed over a total of 46 as at March, 2022.

While delivering his welcome address, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sunday Elom, commended the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari for its various impactful intervention projects in the University, adding that the completed sections of the road project is strategic for smooth vehicular and pedestrian movement to the College of Medical Sciences and Faculty of Law of the institution.
“On that note, may I at this junction express our profound appreciation to the President and Commander-in-Chief of Armed Forces, Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, for his approval of some critical projects for the University. In his administration, the University has benefitted from some critical intervention programmes. Chief among them is the 1 mega watt hybrid solar power plant that was completed and inaugurated in 2018 through the Rural Electrification Agency, under the Energizing Education Programme of the Federal Government, which made the institution the first public university in Nigeria with uninterrupted power supply.


“The University, under this government, has also benefitted from the Ecological Fund, through which over 4 km of internal roads and drainages were constructed to checkmate the incidences of ecological problems in the University in 2017. We are extremely happy for these gains, yet we can’t but continue to ask for more”.
The Vice-Chancellor who was represented at the event by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Administration, Prof. Abel Ezeoha, also used the opportunity to call for more of such interventions from the Federal Government, noting that the University is still young and on the process of justifying the reason for its establishment.


He said: “As a young university that is barely 12 years old, we are striving to justify the reason for our establishment by ensuring that the ideals and culture of a world-class institution are enthroned and maintained in all our academic activities. This is to ensure that we turn-out globally competitive and problem-solving graduates, and also make positive impact on our road to sustainable national development.
“Nevertheless, in spite of our lofty vision, we are challenged by serious infrastructural gaps especially in the area of internal road networks and structures. We use this medium therefore to appeal to the Honourable Minister of Works and Housing for more interventions in this regard”, he concluded.

The Federal Government of Nigeria under the auspices of the Federal Ministry of Education has awarded scholarships to nine undergraduate students of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State.
The students who were drawn from different Faculties include Ekwugha Ogechukwu Lilian, Okwe Emmanuel Obaji, Odi Daniel Chikaodiri, Obi Ifeanyichukwu Ogbonne and Agim Chinemerem Vanessa, all studying Medicine and Surgery. Others are, Ejimofor Shalom Chinemerem, from the Department of Physiology, Aharanwa Judith Adaugo and Ogoke Ugochukwu Mathew, both from the Anatomy Department, and Abani Ugwumba Sunday of the Department of Economics.

While delivering the award letters to the beneficiaries yesterday, a representative of the Federal Ministry of Education, Mrs. Clementina Anyanwu, noted that the scholarship is worth Two Hundred and Fifty Thousand (N250, 0000 for one academic session, adding that it will run till the final year of the students’ studies.

The Acting Dean, Students’ Affairs, Dr. Collins Irem in his remarks noted that it was a thing of joy and an achievement because it shows the seriousness of the University’s academic activities in the comity of Nigerian universities as the students were selected based on their academic performances in their various disciplines.


He advised the students to use the money judiciously by paying their fees promptly, noting that the money is not meant for jamboree.
Speaking on behalf of the students, a 300 level student of Medicine and Surgery, Odi Daniel Chikaodiri, expressed their happiness, noting that the money will help to relieve their parents from some of their financial burdens. He also thanked the Federal Government for the largesse, adding that most of them never believed that they could be shortlisted for such programme without knowing someone in high places.


On her part, Agim Chinemerem Venessa, a 200 level student of MBBS, said she was very excited for receiving the award from the Federal government, adding that she initially thought it was a scam until she was called by the University authorities for the signing of her award letter, and gave kudos to the Federal government for insisting on merit. She promised to take her academic activities more seriously, in order to graduate in flying colours.
This scholarship awards is coming on the heels of a Federal Government-funded bursary awards, where 30 students of the Faculty of Education of the University were also selected.

Even as 30 students of the Faculty were selected for FG Bursary Award
The Vice-Chancellor of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Prof. Sunday Elom has commended the 400 level students of the Faculty of Education of the institution for their sterling performances in the 2022 Teachers’ Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN) professional examination.


The Vice-Chancellor noted that the successful outing of the students in the teachers’ professional qualifying examination is a huge testament to the seriousness of the University’s academic activities, and praised the Dean and staff of the Faculty of Education for their hard work and work ethnics.


The University had presented 338 400 level students of the Faculty of Education for the teachers’ professional examination held on 24th November, 2022, out of which 300 of them passed with credit.

Meanwhile, 30 students of the Faculty of Education are among the students of Faculties of Education throughout the country that have been selected by the Federal Government for bursary award.


The bursary award, which is worth N150, 000 each is meant to support Nigerian students reading Education courses. It is also geared towards encouraging candidates to enroll for Education programmes in tertiary institutions in Nigeria.

The students were selected by the Federal Scholarship Board, Federal Ministry of Education from a pool of those that applied for the bursary award by considering their Cumulative Grade Point for the preceding academic year.
While speaking on the importance of the TRCN examination, the Acting Dean of the Faculty, Dr. Francisca Ogba noted that it is a qualifying examination for students’ teachers geared towards certifying them professionally both within and outside the country.


She explained that the students’ performance in the examination shows that both the staff and students of the faculty are performing at optimal level in teaching and learning. She also attributed the performance to the support of the University Management under the leadership of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Elom, whom she said has provided the enabling environment for academic activities to thrive in the University.

She said “We want to appreciate the VC for his support and for providing the enabling environment for staff and students to excel in their respective fields.”
The Dean equally thanked the Federal Government for the bursary awards to students of Faculties of Education throughout the country, noting that the largesse will go a long way to support and encourage students in the field of Education.

The Governor of Ebonyi State, Engr. David Nweze Umahi has described Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, as one of the best universities in Nigeria in terms of quality of academics and administration.
He stated this during a thanksgiving service organized by the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof Sunday Oge Elom, to appreciate God for His tender mercies and extravagant grace in his life. The event was held at the Grace of God Mission, 23 Ikenga Street, Abakaliki on Sunday, 4th December, 2022.

The Governor who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Eric Kelechi Igwe noted that though the University is one of the youngest universities in Nigeria, yet it is also one of the best universities in Nigeria.
He noted that the Vice-chancellor since assumption of duty has maintained the culture, ideals and glory of the University in terms of the seriousness of its academic activities, praying God to see him through in his tenure.
While speaking during the service, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Elom, advised the congregation to surrender their lives to God, for without His intervention, he would have died. He also stressed the importance of having good relationships with people and tithing in the race to make heaven.


He further used the opportunity to thank the team of Neuro-surgeons, medical doctors and nurses that attended to him at the hospital, praising them for their professionalism and expertise. For their consistent prayers and support during the period, the Vice-Chancellor also appreciated the members of the Grace of God Mission especially Bishop David Ubanatu and staff of the University. He specially thanked his wife, Dr. Mrs. Chinyere Elom, whom he described as his strength for her support, love, care and prayers, asking God to bless everyone in good measures.

Dr. Mrs. Elom who was visibly elated, in her speech that was punctuated with songs of praise, thanked God for preserving the life of her husband despite the severity of the situation, adding that God connected them with the right people during the ordeal. She also appreciated all who prayed, called and sent encouraging messages to strength them in those trying times.
After the Church service, guests were treated to sumptuous meals and choice drinks at the popular Nkwagu Ugbala Grand Arena where the Department of Music of the University performed.


The event was graced by many dignitaries including politicians, the academia, government officials, traditional rulers and friends and family members.

The Governor of Ebonyi State, Engr. David Nweze Umahi has described Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, as one of the best universities in Nigeria in terms of quality of academics and administration.
He stated this during a thanksgiving service organized by the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof Sunday Oge Elom, to appreciate God for His tender mercies and extravagant grace in his life. The event was held at the Grace of God Mission, 23 Ikenga Street, Abakaliki on Sunday, 4th December, 2022.

The Governor who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Eric Kelechi Igwe noted that though the University is one of the youngest universities in Nigeria, yet it is also one of the best universities in Nigeria.
He noted that the Vice-chancellor since assumption of duty has maintained the culture, ideals and glory of the University in terms of the seriousness of its academic activities, praying God to see him through in his tenure.
While speaking during the service, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Elom, advised the congregation to surrender their lives to God, for without His intervention, he would have died. He also stressed the importance of having good relationships with people and tithing in the race to make heaven.


He further used the opportunity to thank the team of Neuro-surgeons, medical doctors and nurses that attended to him at the hospital, praising them for their professionalism and expertise. For their consistent prayers and support during the period, the Vice-Chancellor also appreciated the members of the Grace of God Mission especially Bishop David Ubanatu and staff of the University. He specially thanked his wife, Dr. Mrs. Chinyere Elom, whom he described as his strength for her support, love, care and prayers, asking God to bless everyone in good measures.

Dr. Mrs. Elom who was visibly elated, in her speech that was punctuated with songs of praise, thanked God for preserving the life of her husband despite the severity of the situation, adding that God connected them with the right people during the ordeal. She also appreciated all who prayed, called and sent encouraging messages to strength them in those trying times.
After the Church service, guests were treated to sumptuous meals and choice drinks at the popular Nkwagu Ugbala Grand Arena where the Department of Music of the University performed.


The event was graced by many dignitaries including politicians, the academia, government officials, traditional rulers and friends and family members.

As part of its community outreach programme, the Department of Agriculture, Faculty of Agriculture, Alex- Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu -Alike, Ebonyi State, has trained local rice farmers within the University host community on rice pests control techniques.
The capacity building programme which was held on 5thDecember, 2022, at Ndiechi Community in Ikwo Local Government Area, also addressed many other relevant issues affecting rice farming.
The idea of the university outreach program was to extend helping hands to local communities on how to improve and control the various challenges they face in farming.
The outreach programme is also geared towards fulfilling one of the core mandates of the University which is community service. Through that, students of Agriculture are expected to acquire hands-on skills in different fields of Agriculture.


Speaking during the programme, the Head, Department, of Agricultural Economics/ Extension, Dr. Michael Olaolu noted that the outreach was purely to educate rice farmers in the local communities and also to build cordial relationships between the university and its host community.

He maintained that the programme was also to proffer solutions to the problems confronting rice farmers, adding that, it also helps the students to share their ideas with the community as part of its 4th year courses that every student in the faculty of Agriculture must undergo.


While speaking, Kalu Samuel, a 400-level student of the faculty educated the farmers on the issues affecting rice farming and the control of rice pests. He noted that rice is a major food in the world and an important source of employment in rural areas.

He added that rice production needs to be increased more to meet the growing food demand in the country, adding that the major challenges of rice farming include poor spacing during planting, climate change, too much fertilizer and rain. He further said that the solution to the problems include mass literacy to educate farmers more on how to measure fertilizers and practice crop rotation and how to use decomposed manure more in rice farming to give good yields.



Other resource persons that provided answers to some of the challenges facing the farmers were Dr.Emeka Osuji from Department of Agricultural Economics/Extension and Mr. Emeka Chidiebere of Crop Science.

Highlight of the programme was a cultural dance and drama presented by 400 level students of the faculty to pass important messages to the villagers on the theme of the outreach- containment of rice pests.

The Vice-Chancellor of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Prof. Sunday Elom has inaugurated the newly elected executive of the Students’ Union Government of the University.
While admonishing the students’ officials who were elected in a free, fair and transparent election on Thursday, December 1, 2022, the Vice-Chancellor noted that in spite of the antics of some elements within and outside the University to scuttle the election, the Management insisted that the right thing be done by allowing the election to take place.


He maintained that as Vice-Chancellor, he will always insist on allowing students to choose their leaders and representatives in a free and transparent democratic process without interferences from any quarters, adding that he had no preferred candidate in the last election because as a father to all the students of the University he was ready to work with anyone chosen by the students.

Prof. Elom further used the opportunity to advise the elected officials not to allow the SUG activities to encroach into their academic work in other not to undermine their primary reason for being in the University, and urged them to serve and uphold the dignity of the University by recognizing that they were under authority.


He assured them of his administration’s utter commitment to their welfare by ensuring that they are raised in a decent environment, adding that cultism, insubordination and other vices will not be tolerated.

Earlier while delivering his inaugural address, the newly elected President of the Students’ Union Government of the University, Peter C. Anukwoenyi thanked the Vice-Chancellor and the University Management for keeping to their promise of giving the students the opportunity to choose their leaders through a democratic process.


He also appealed for the support of the University Management to his administration, the same way it has done to past students’ leaderships in the University.

He further promised to lead the students in the fear of God, humility and devotion to their needs and desires, vowing to also appropriate the students’ resources to improve their living condition and protect their rights and improve their welfare.


Highlight of the ceremony was the taking of the oath of office by the students’ officials administered by the Head, General Administration/Legal Unit, Barr. Ogochukwu Onuorah.

Members of the new Students’ Union Government of the University includes: Anukwoenyi Peter C. (President), Chukwugozie R. A (Vice President), Okeke Christian C (General Secretary), Okorie Caleb Odii (Assistant General Secretary), Agwu Samuel George (Treasurer), Ibekwe Ezenwa L (Director of Health), Ibiam Victor A (Director of Socials), Amin AL-Amin Abiodun (Director of Transport), Kalu Ifeanyi Samuel (Director of Sports), Clergy Corneius C. (Director of Welfare), Amos Ugochinyere (Director of Information), Friday Bethel N (Director of Academic Planning), Nwaliede Ezekiel C (Director of Finance) and Ukachukwu R. E (Internal Auditor).


At the end of the inauguration of the SUG Executive, members of the Students’ Senate had their internal election to elect their leaders. Those elected were; Akorah Kessed N (Senate President), Akor Edwin (Deputy Senate President), Chukwuemeka Franklyn C. (Clerk), Dim Udoka Augustine (Deputy Clerk), Chidoweh Angela (Chief Whip), Kalu Augustine (Deputy Chief Whip) and Uhiara Augustine (Leader)

EXTENSION OF THE ONLINE REGISTRATION FOR THE 2022/2023 ACADEMIC SESSION POST-UTME/DIRECT ENTRY SCREENING

This is to inform the general public that the online registration for the 2022/2023 academic session Post-Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (Post-UTME)/Direct Entry Screening of Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike, (AE-FUNAI), Ebonyi State, has been extended by one week. This implies that the registration will now end on *Wednesday, 7th December, 2022*.

Interested candidates who must have scored 150 and above in the 2022 UTME and who made Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State their first choice institution in their application for admission in the 2022 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) are qualified and are enjoined to apply within this extension of the registration. However, candidates who applied to study Medicine and Surgery must have a minimum score of 200 while candidates for Law must also have a minimum score of 200 in the UTME to be eligible for the University’s Post-UTME screening.

AVAILABLE PROGRAMMES
S/N FACULTY PROGRAMME
1 Faculty of Agriculture 1. Agribusiness and Management
2. Agriculture (Agricultural Economics and Extension, Animal Science, Crop Science
3. Soil Science)
4. Fisheries and Aquaculture
2 Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences 1. Anatomy
2. Physiology
3 Faculty of Education 1. Education/English and Literary Studies
2. Educational Administration and 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
4 Faculty of Engineering and Technology 1. Chemical Engineering
2. Civil Engineering
3. Electrical/Electronics Engineering
4. Mechanical Engineering
5. Mechatronics Engineering
5 Faculty of Environmental Sciences 1. Architecture
2. Fine and Applied Arts
3. Geography
6 Faculty of Humanities 1. English
2. French
3. Linguistics
4. Linguistics/French
5. Linguistics/Igbo
6. Theatre Arts
7. Igbo
8. Music
9. History and Strategic Studies
10. Philosophy
11. Religion
7 Faculty of Law 1. Law
8 Faculty of Management Sciences 1. Accountancy
2. Banking and Finance
3. Business Administration
9 Faculty of Biological Sciences 1. Biology
2. Biotechnology
3. Biochemistry
4. Microbiology
10 Faculty of Physical Sciences 1. Chemistry
2. Computer Science
3. Mathematics
4. Statistics
5. Geology
6. Geophysics
7. Physics
11 Faculty of Social Sciences 1. Economics
2. Political Science
3. Psychology
4. Criminology and Security Studies
5. Sociology
6. Mass Communication
12 College of Medical Sciences 1. Medicine and Surgery
NOTE: There shall be no Direct Entry admission into Medicine & Surgery and Law.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Prospective candidates who scored a minimum of 200 for Medicine and Surgery, 200 for Law and a minimum of 150 and above for other programmes in the 2022 UTME and did not choose AE-FUNAI as their first choice institution, but wish to study in AE-FUNAI are eligible to apply for PUTME. However, such candidates must in the first instance, effect a ‘Change of Institution/Course’ to AE-FUNAI on the JAMB Portal on or before Wednesday, 7th December, 2022 before proceeding to register for PUTME screening. This is also applicable to Direct Entry (DE) candidates.
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/ noticed, 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 or QUICK LINKS,
• Click on 2022/2023 UTME Admission Screening OR 2022/2023 Direct Entry Admission Screening
• Click on “Prospective Students”
• Click on “Click to Apply” under 2022/2023 Admission Screening Application
• Enter your “JAMB Registration Number”
• Select your payment mode (Generate Remita Retrieval Reference Number).
• Proceed to any bank for your payment with your Remita number.
• Return to the Application page and enter your “JAMB Registration Number” again.
• Proceed with the completion of the form
• Submit your application.
• Print out your acknowledgement slip.
MODE OF SCREENING:
The screening mode for the 2022/2023 academic session PUTME shall be through the process of assessment of JAMB UTME results, verified O/ Level and Direct entry 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 Wednesday, 7th December, 2022. Any PUTME application without result upload will not be processed.
For support:
E-mail: info@funai.edu.ng
Hotline: 08170899288
For Enquiries:
E-mail: info@funai.edu.ng
Tel: 08067558863, 07017023215 , 07031810065, 08038678738.

Signed:
Odisa C. Okeke (Mrs.)
Registrar

The Vice-Chancellor, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Prof. Sunday Oge Elom has said that government alone cannot adequately fund university education in Nigeria, noting that cost-sharing option involving all stakeholders in the system is the sure way to pool funds together for the sustainable development of our universities.
The Vice-Chancellor stated this during the 10th matriculation ceremony of the University held on Wednesday, 30th November, 2022, to officially admit freshmen into the University for the 2021/2022 academic session.
Hear him: “The Nigerian University system is facing serious challenges especially in the area of funding, which has led to incessant strike/industrial actions by university-based staff unions, notably the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU). It is my sincere belief that Government alone cannot adequately fund university education in Nigeria.


“We need a cost-sharing approach to the funding of our universities involving the stakeholders – government, university management, parents/guardians and organized private sector to make positive impact in the system.
“I therefore use this opportunity to appreciate the parents/guardians of our students for their various contributions through the AE-FUNAI Parents’ Forum, to the infrastructural development of the University since 2016 when the Forum was inaugurated. May I also solicit for their continued partnership as we strive to build a university we all will be proud of”
On the 10th matriculation ceremony, Prof. Elom said, “4, 656 freshmen are joining our dynamic university. I am particularly excited about this year’s ceremony because the freshmen are joining us at a time the University has adopted Blended Learning in the discharge of its academic activities. Blended Learning is a combination of face-to-face and online methodologies of teaching and learning. As a university we are prepared to move with the changing times by adopting the use of technologies in our learning experience
“As the Vice-Chancellor of this University, I envision a world-class campus, where management, staff and students work together as one team in an atmosphere that meets global best practices. I therefore call on everyone to join hands with me to make this dream a reality
“The focus of the University is to imbue in our students the hard and soft skills as well as the functional knowledge to be relevant and resourceful in a 21st century knowledge-based economy. I assure you of our utter commitment to that mandate.
Continuing, the Vice-Chancellor stated, “We do not also neglect the importance of God in shaping the destinies of our students. We sincerely believe that the next generation of Nigerians cannot be trained in a spiritual vacuum. This underscores the reason we commence every academic year with university-wide interdenominational church service and Jumm’at prayers, where we commit our university, the staff and students into the hands of God


Addressing the freshmen, the Vice-Chancellor said, “Be informed that Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, has zero tolerance for cultism, examination malpractices, indecent dressing, bullying, ‘sorting’, campus prostitution/sex-for-grades and other forms of misconducts, and we do not hesitate to sanction offenders accordingly. I therefore charge you to be focused on your studies and avoid anything that will derail your sojourn in the University.

“Adhere strictly to the rules and regulations as encapsulated in the Students Handbook. I wish to assure you of adequate security on campus. We, however, plead with you not to hesitate to report any suspicious activities to the Dean of Students’ Affairs, security officers or any staff of the University for immediate action.”
The Vice-Chancellor further implored the matriculating students to show respect to their fellow students and staff of the University as well as members of the host community to make their stay fruitful and worthwhile, adding that the University will continue to strive to improve on the existing facilities on campus even as he urged them to take adequate care of the University property to avoid damage, as they were put in place for their good.
Highlight of the 10th matriculation ceremony was an interactive meeting between the University Management and members of the AE-FUNAI Parents’ Forum – an umbrella body of all parents/guardians of students of the University, where issues affecting the growth and development of the University as well as the students were discussed.

AN ADDRESS PRESENTED BY THE VICE CHANCELLOR, ALEX EKWUEME FEDERAL UNIVERSITY NDUFU-ALIKE, EBONYI STATE, PROF. SUNDAY OGE ELOM, AT THE 10TH MATRICULATION CEREMONY OF THE UNIVERSITY, ON WEDNESDAY, 30TH NOVEMBER, 2022
Protocol
It is with excitement that I welcome you to the 10th matriculation ceremony of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, the Centre of Excellence and Integrity. This august assembly marks the official admission of deserving and qualified freshmen who excelled in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and in our transparent selection process, into our noble university.
I have the pleasure to welcome you to one of the most serious public universities in Nigeria with the core values of excellence, integrity and entrepreneurship. AE-FUNAI’s main vision is to become a world-class institution that is reputed for the quality of its teaching, learning and research, and we are clearly on the path of achieving this set goal. I assure the parents/guardians of our freshmen that their children/wards are in a serious university.
As a university, we are barely 12 years in existence. Nevertheless, we are expanding in all frontiers in order to justify the reason of our establishment. Thus, the University presently has 11 Faculties, 46 academic departments and 58 programmes. These are in addition to a College of Medical Sciences and School of Postgraduate Studies. It is also worthy to note that all our programmes are approved and accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC) and other relevant professional bodies like Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) and the Nigerian Medical and Dental Council.
At today’s matriculation ceremony, 4, 656 freshmen are joining our dynamic university. I am particularly excited about this year’s ceremony because the freshmen are joining us at a time the University has adopted Blended Learning in the discharge of its academic activities. Blended Learning is a combination of face-to-face and online methodologies of teaching and learning. As a university we are prepared to move with the changing times by adopting the use of technologies in our learning experience. As the Vice-Chancellor of this University, I envision a world-class campus, where management, staff and students work together as one team in an atmosphere that meets global best practices. I therefore call on everyone to join hands with me to make this dream a reality.
The Nigerian University system is facing serious challenges especially in the area of funding, which has led to incessant strike/industrial actions by university-based staff unions, notably the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU). It is my sincere belief that Government alone cannot adequately fund university education in Nigeria. We need a cost-sharing approach to the funding of our universities involving the stakeholders – government, university management, parents/guardians and organized private sector to make positive impact in the system.
I therefore use this opportunity to appreciate the parents/guardians of our students for their various contributions through the AE-FUNAI Parents’ Forum, to the infrastructural development of the University since 2016 when the Forum was inaugurated. May I also solicit for their continued partnership as we strive to build a university we all will be proud of. The focus of the University is to imbue in our students the hard and soft skills as well as the functional knowledge to be relevant and resourceful in a 21st century knowledge-based economy. I assure you of our utter commitment to that mandate. We do not also neglect the importance of God in shaping the destinies of our students. We sincerely believe that the next generation of Nigerians cannot be trained in a spiritual vacuum. This underscores the reason we commence every academic year with university-wide interdenominational church service and Jumm’at prayers, where we commit our university, the staff and students into the hands of God.
To my dear children that are matriculating today, for you are indeed my sons and daughters, you have been admitted into the University of your dream. Your admission into AE-FUNAI is not by accident. It is a reward for your sterling performances both in your UTME and Post-UTME. So, you should be proud of yourselves. Out of over 15, 000 candidates that applied to study in this University in the 2021/2022 academic session, you are among the selected few. It is therefore a new beginning for all of you today, and by the grace of the Almighty God, in about 4, 5 or 6 year’s time, depending on your programme of study, we will gather for your convocation ceremony. I therefore charge you to make the most of the opportunity afforded you by this admission, ensure that you attend classes, shun all forms of deviant behaviours and other vices, and focus on the main purpose of being here.
Be informed that Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, has zero tolerance for cultism, examination malpractices, indecent dressing, bullying, ‘sorting’, campus prostitution/sex-for-grades and other forms of misconducts, and we do not hesitate to sanction offenders accordingly. I therefore charge you to be focused on your studies and avoid anything that will derail your sojourn in the University. Adhere strictly to the rules and regulations as encapsulated in the Students Handbook. I wish to assure you of adequate security on campus. We, however, plead with you not to hesitate to report any suspicious activities to the Dean of Students’ Affairs, security officers or any staff of the University for immediate action. As my children, my phone number is 08032686617. Please, contact me through WhatsApp whenever necessary.
I further implore you to show respect to your fellow students and staff of the University as well as members of the host community to make your stay fruitful and worthwhile. We will continue to strive to improve on the existing facilities on campus while we also urge you to take adequate care of the University property to avoid damage, as they are put in place for your good.
Be reminded that at today’s matriculation ceremony, you have sworn to an oath of allegiance to the University and its authorities, followed by a pledge to abide by her rules and regulations and also promised to appreciate its core values and principles. Please be warned that a breach of the oath that you have taken today will attract appropriate sanctions as stated earlier.
Finally, my prayer is that your stay in this University will be fruitful, and at the end you will be a source of pride to the university, your families, country and humanity. Once again congratulations to all the freshmen.
Best wishes.
Prof. Sunday Oge Elom
Vice-Chancellor

The Department of Theatre Arts, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State has won two awards at the 2022 Bayelsa International Film Festival held at the State capital, Yenogoa.
The Bayelsa Film Festival is one of the renowned annual international film festivals in Nigeria. At the 2022 festival, the independent jury for the fiesta received over 2,000 movies and documentaries from 126 counties, of which ‘Tara’s Diary’ and ‘The Lost Soul’, both feature films produced by the Department of Theatre Arts of the University; ‘Memories are Bullets’, a shot film by students of the department; ‘IMAPS’ and ‘Marginalized Ears’, both documentaries by the same department were selected for the festival.


More importantly, ‘Tara’s Diary’ and ‘Memories are Bullets’ were nominated for the best feature film and best short film respectively while the Head, Department of Theatre Arts, Dr. Charles Okwuowulu was nominated for the best director category. Other nominees from the University include; Kingsley Emeka for best actor, Chidera Faustina, best actress and Charles Emokpae, for the best supporting actor categories.


After thorough screening of the various nominees in the different categories by the fiesta jury, the theatre arts’ team of the University won two prestigious awards - the best actor and best actress, for their performance in the feature film, Tara’s Diary.

While receiving the awards on behalf of the University, Chinda Michael, a staff of the Department of Theatre Arts assured that they will continue to work hard in order to win more awards in future competitions, thereby putting the name of the University in the front burner of national and international film discourse.
Expressing his happiness on the performance of department at the film festival, Dr. Okwuowulu, noted that ‘Tara’s Diary had won award as best musical feature film in the 18th Abuja Film Festival and was further nominated at the Coal City Film Festival early this year, adding that the same film has been selected as the opening film in the forthcoming Lagos International Film Festival scheduled for 17th December, 2022.
He thanked the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sunday Elom for his administration’s support for Theatre Arts in the University, and equally appreciated the efforts of the staff and students of the department for the giant strides.

A professor of Biochemistry and the Dean, School of Postgraduate Studies, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Chukwunonso E.C.C Ejike has called for the promotion of the health and economic benefits of Igbo culinary vegetables through research and advocacy.
The University don made the call yesterday while delivering a lecture titled “Akwukwo Nri na Mkpara Akwukwo: Indigenous Culinary Phytomedicines of Ndi Igbo” at the Okwute Ndigbo mini auditorium, Iruka Centre, as part of the lecture series of the Iruka Centre – the Centre for the study of the future of the Igbo.


Prof. Ejike explored a tripod of culinary vegetables of ndi-Igbo, their folk uses, a narrative review of scientific knowledge, his contributions on the said subject and the way forward, citing examples on a tripod of culinary vegetables which include the - Arunji/ Nchuanwu- ocimum gratissimum which is an African clove/ basil , the - onugbu –vernonia amygdalina del., the utazi - gongronema latifolium used to treat a range of ailments such as sore throat, cough, headache, malaria, gastrointestinal helminthes, diarrhea, pneumonia, wounds, skin disease, convulsions, epilepsy, and diabetes, typhoid, fever, ulcer, ring worms among others.

On the way forward, the erudite scholar called for the promotion of the health uses and income benefits of Igbo culinary vegetables through research and advocacy to enhance the national pride of the Igbo.


While declaring the event open, the Vice-Chancellor of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Prof. Sunday Elom said the establishment of the Iruka Center represents an important step by the institution in promoting Igbo studies and igniting emotional commitment in Ndi-Igbo to promote, develop and sustain their language and cultural heritage.

He noted that in the effort to strengthen the Igbo presence in the University, an optional GST Course – Basic Communication in Igbo was introduced as part of the University curriculum, stating that the manuscript for the textbook has been approved by the University’s curriculum committee and funds would be provided for the publication of the book which will be used in the 2022/2023 academic session.
The Vice-Chancellor who was represented by the Dean, Faculty of Humanities, Prof. Romanus Ejiaga, said that the Iruka center is multidisciplinary in approach; bringing scholars and experts from across the various academic disciplines such as Igbo , linguistics, History, Archaeology, Anthropology, literature, Arts, Politics, Business, Medicine, Engineering, together to work on different aspects of the Igbo experience.


Earlier in his opening address, the Acting Director, Iruka Centre, Dr Anne Nwankwo , explained that the lecture was meant to educate the public on culinary indigenous vegetables that serve medicinal purposes and prevent sicknesses when administered properly, adding that it was also geared at taking the Igbo back to the roots where they found solace before the advent of western civilization.


She further encouraged parents to teach their children and wards the benefits of growing culinary vegetables.
Highlight of the event was the cultural dance display by the students of the Igbo department

- Set to train 500 students

As the preparation for the commencement of blended learning in the academic activities of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, enters top-gear, the institution recently organized a training programme for 100 academic staff.
Blended learning which is a hybrid teaching and learning method, involving face-to-face and online activities is meant to bridge the gap associated with rise in students’ population and shortage in academic staff.


Delivering his welcome address, the Coordinator of the project, Prof. Dr. Jonny Ogunji noted that due to an increasing number of universities in Africa, institutions are experiencing growing teaching burdens as a result of rapidly rising students’ population and academic staff shortages, resulting in adverse impacts on teaching quality and students’ learning.
He maintained that Blended learning – a combination of face-to-face and online learning – offers a promising approach to addressing these challenges, urging staff to make use of the new trend to impact knowledge on the students.
He further thanked the Vice-Chancellor, Prof’ Sunday Elom for approving the training programme for 100 academic staff, adding that 500 students of the University would also be trained in the first instance, as the University prepares to commence the use of blended learning in its academic activities.


While delivering the keynote speech titled, “Discipline in Learning: A Sine Qua Non for Breaking New Grounds”, Prof. Chukwunonso E.C.C Ejike, stated that discipline is about setting limits, clarifying roles, responsibilities, and mutual expectations and creating a predictable, orderly and stable life, adding that for the purposes of remote learning, self-discipline plays a significant role in ensuring the continuity of learning.

He enjoined staff to be focused as individuals, departments or Faculties as well as a University, adding that Education is migrating from in corporea to in silico and the blends of both are skewed in favour of the latter.


Also contributing, Dr. Nwogo Obasi who spoke on “Quality Assurance Rubric for Blended Learning”, affirmed that the purpose of the training was to guide the institution, academic staff or faculty to develop quality blended learning courses to enhance the teaching and learning experience as well as ensure that the quality of the courses for institution’s design or use will be assessed in a consistent and comprehensive manner.

He equally stated that the specific objectives of the training include prioritising quality in the development of blended learning courses, evaluate blended learning courses and identify their strengths and weaknesses for improvement.
In the same vein, Dr. Maria Nwodo who spoke on the topic, “Digital Platforms for Effective Academic Service Delivery” acknowledged that a digital learning platform allows educational institutions to cost-effectively and instantly update course contents or add additional materials and resources, allowing the students to access and support their learning.
She added that educational institutions are no longer limiting learning only to the classroom; instead, students can access high quality effective learning resources from wherever they are, and whenever they choose.
Dr. Nwodo noted that one of the great benefits of educational platforms is that it is completely automated, adding that teachers can track and monitor students without having to spend hours marking students exercises manually. She stated that the platform is flexible, thereby giving teachers the opportunity to personalize classes when they deem fit while observing clearly which student needs additional help, and who is excelling.
Other contributors during the programme include Dr. Uzoma Alo, Dr. Ann Nwankwo and Dr. Chinyere Ogunji, whose views were that key ideas on Blended Learning is breaking down current barriers and current distinctions, adding that distance and time does not matter as students can be world apart but work together. They stressed that the more we know about learning, the better we can design courses that will lead students to learn.

Four academic staff of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, have bagged doctoral degrees (PhDs) in various disciplines from renowned French Universities. The staff were beneficiaries of the postgraduate scholarship partnership between the University and the French Government, a first of its kind in the Nigerian University system.


The 4 scholars include Dr. Amos Onyekwere who bagged a PhD in Molecular Parasitology from the Universite︣ de Perpignan, Via Domitia; Dr. Folorunso Jayeola that bagged a PhD in Music-Ethnomusicology from the Universite︣ of Sorbonne, Paris; Engr. Dr. Ogechi Akudo Nwogu with a PhD in Computer Engineering from Universite︣ Sorbonne Paris Nord, and Dr. Ikenna Chinazaekpere Ijeh with a doctoral degree in Image Processing and Photonics from the Ecole Centrale de Marseille, all in France.
Presenting the scholars who returned to the University recently to the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sunday Elom, the Director, French Centre, Prof. Nnenna Nwosu-Nworuh noted that the 4 academics were among the staff of the University that have benefitted from the scholarship programme.


She stressed that the staff were happy to be back to the University in order to contribute their quota to the academic development of the institution by putting into practice the things they learned in France, adding that they were also happy for the opportunity availed them to be part of the scholarship programme.

While receiving the staff at his office, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Elom, extolled them for completing their doctoral programmes in record time, and for returning to the university as stipulated in the bond they signed before travelling to France.
The Vice-Chancellor urged them to invest their intellectual resources to the development of the University, as it is better to join hands in rescuing the country from its numerous challenges than running to foreign and developed countries. He maintained that Nigeria will only be developed by Nigerians, thus migrating out of Nigeria because of the present situation cannot be a sustainable solution to our challenges.
Speaking on behalf of the staff, Dr. Ijeh expressed their heartfelt appreciation to the University Management for the opportunity offered them, and for making their academic dreams a reality. He noted that at the beginning of the postgraduate scholarship programme, many staff doubted its sustainability but that at the end, it has become a huge success with many staff benefitting from it. He also used the opportunity to request for their elevation to the next rank, which the Vice-Chancellor directed the Director, French Centre to furnish him with a memo in that regard.

AE-FUNAI, FEED THE FUTURE NIGERIA AGRICULTURE POLICY PROJECT AND EBONYI STATE GOVERNMENT HOLD HYBRID VALIDATION WORKSHOP ON EBONYI STATE CLIMATE-SMART AGRICULTURE
Faculty of Agriculture, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State in collaboration with the Feed the Future Nigeria Agriculture Policy Project and Ebonyi State Government has held a validation workshop on Ebonyi State Climate Smart Agriculture profile which addresses the challenges of climate change in the agricultural sector of the state.

While delivering the lead paper at the event, Dr. Robert Onyeneke said that Climate-smart agriculture (CSA) is an important strategy to address the problems of climate change in the agricultural sector, pointing out that as a response strategy to climate change, CSA simultaneously achieves the three critical goals of responding to climate change by increasing agricultural productivity and incomes, adaptation and mitigation.

He noted that while climate change adaptation aims at adjusting to actual or expected climate change impacts, mitigation aims at reducing carbon emissions.



He also stated that several private, state and federal institutions currently work on activities related to CSA in the state, adding that the Ebonyi State Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources(EBSMANR) is charged with developing agricultural policies and implementing climate resilient protects and activities, stressing that the EBSMANR also supports the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development(FMARD) in delivering Federal support at the state level, and together EBSMANR and FMARD are responsible for formulating , developing and implementing policies, programs and strategies for addressing climate change activities in the State.





He further explained that international development partners have been identified in the CSA pace, noting that the state developed its climate change policy through a tripartite effort consisting of the Michigan State University-led Feed the future Agricultural Policy Project , Action Aid Nigeria and the Ebonyi State government.



Dr Onyeneke, concluding his speech said that the critical constraints for agriculture in the state were low soil fertility, low access to finance, poor infrastructure and poor market, pointing out that Agriculture is a significant contributor to the States total domestic product but however there still remains a gap between food demand and food supply, noting that despite the challenges, the state has made effort to strengthen the agricultural sector’s resilience to climate change.

Speaking earlier during the event, the Honorable Commissioner, Ebonyi State Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Prof. Humphrey Nwaobashi said the issue of Climate change is a global one, adding that an example is the recent flooding happening in Nigeria which had displaced so many people from their homes, adding that, due to the flooding, farmlands, farm yield and even farmers have been lost. He further noted that strategies are in place by government of the State to mitigate such ugly occurrences.

Honorable Commissioner, Ebonyi State Ministry of Environment, Dr Richard Nnabu while unveiling the Ebonyi State Climate Change Policy and Action Plan said that climate change has become a major threat to development all over the world and most especially to states like Ebonyi, where the vast majority of people are highly vulnerable to the impact of long term dependency on substance rain-fed agriculture, wide-scale poverty and weak adaptive capacity.





He added that in the past years, Ebonyi has witnessed increased flooding and drought among other climate impacts, all of which have affected lives and property, and reduced crop yield, adding that large places in the state have become inhabitable because they are either flooded frequently or get hardly any rainwater at all.



He further said that with the increasing threat of climate change to the safety, livelihood and development of the state, and the need for serious efforts to address the problem, His Excellency Engr. David Umahi moved quickly to create the Ebonyi State Climate Change Office and instructed the team headed by Dr. Obianuju Aloh, to work with the Ministry of Agriculture and other relevant stakeholders to come up with plans and initiatives to combat the menace and promote green and sustainable growth in Ebonyi State.

The United States Agency for International Development Representative, Dr Ayoade Ayotoye while giving his goodwill message congratulated the Ebonyi state government on its doggedness in combating climate change in the state, adding that such programmmes will help educate the people on the effects of climate change and how to minimize the effects on the state.

Prof. Saweda liverpool – Tasie who is the Michigan State University Foundation Professor and Principal Investigator NAPA said the day marked multiple years of collaboration between United states, Michigan State University, scholars, federal and state Universities, Ministry of Environment in Ebonyi State and various supporters across Nigeria.

She noted that Michigan State University has been carrying out research on climate change in Nigeria, particularly in Ebonyi state, pointing out that the Ebonyi state climate change policy Action plan on Agriculture has proved to be an important strategy in combating climate change. She added that implementation of the action plan by the government will help the agricultural sector and also mitigate the effects of climate change in Ebonyi State.

As Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndfu-Alike, Ebonyi State continues to harvest the benefits of its investment in academic staff development, especially through the postgraduate scholarship partnership between the University, an assistant lecturer in the Department of English and Literary Studies, Mr. Lucky Nte has been offered a scholarship by the French Ministry of Education to pursue a bi-national PhD programme in English Linguistics at Lumiere University, Lyon, France and the University of Freiburg, Germany respectively.
Nte who obtained his Master’s degree in France through the post graduate scholarship partnership between the University and the French Government will be conducting his doctoral research on Communication Strategies of West African Anglophone Medical Professionals in Teaching Hospitals in France and Germany.


While commending Nte for his achievement, the Vice-Chancellor of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Prof. Sunday Elom, noted that the benefits of the postgraduate scholarship partnership between the University and the French Government were enormous and far-reaching, adding that it has exposed many of the university’s young academics to international relationships.

The Vice-Chancellor maintained that his administration will continue to expose the staff of the University to international opportunities in order to equip them for the demands of the 21st century teaching learning and research.

The Vice-Chancellor, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Prof. Sunday Oge Elom has said that students are the main reason for establishing universities.

The University’s helmsman stated this recently during an orientation programme organized for the newly-admitted students of the institution for the 2021/2022 academic session, held at the Abubakar Rasheed Auditorium.

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A cross section of university officials and freshmen during the orientation programme at the Abubakar Rasheed Auditorium


He noted that the Orientation Programme was necessary to guide them through the culture, life, background, rules and regulations of the University and its environs.



The Vice-Chancellor who was represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Administration, Prof. Abel Ezeoha, advised the freshmen to take their studies seriously, as AE-FUNAI is recognized as a serious University that graduates its students on time, adding that since 2016 the institution has consistently held its yearly convocation ceremony where graduands were issued their certificates on the same day.

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Rep. of the VC, Prof. Abel Ezeoha admonishing the freshmen during the programme
He admonished the freshmen to take their studies seriously and imbibe good morals that portray the University in good light, stressing the importance of respecting and accommodating the indigenes and culture of the host community to avoid conflicts, and advised the students to shun prejudices.



He further emphasized the fact that staff of the University are highly trained and ethical in the discharge of their official responsibilities, and urged the students to feel free as the responsibilities of the staff were to make sure they succeed in the institution.

Earlier while delivering his opening remarks, the Acting Dean Students’ Affairs, Dr. Collins Irem encouraged the freshmen to always make the right decisions, as their decisions could either make or mar them in the course of their studies.

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Ag. Dean, Students’ Affairs, Dr. Collins Irem speaking at the event


“You are now the chief architect of your own future; so you have to calm down and be focused if you don’t want to miss it”.



He urged them to attend all their classes and avoid too much fun which could make them forget the main reason for coming to the institution, which is to excel in character and learning.

Also speaking during the exercise, the Chief Security Officer of the University, ASP Nwogbu Francis (rtd.) advised students to be security conscious, adding that the security department of AE-FUNAI was established to discharge some responsibilities such as the protection of lives and property from both internal and external threats, prevention and detection of crimes, apprehension of offenders, and enforcement of rules and regulations of the University.

He pointed out that inasmuch as the security officers are around to protect lives and property of staff and students, security starts with them, and charged them to ensure they always tell their friends their whereabouts whenever they leave the University environment.

Other educative lectures such as the Use of the Library, the Role ICT in Students’ Course Registration, Proper Hostel Management, Importance of Counseling etc were also delivered to prepare the students for a successful sojourn in Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State.

The Vice-Chancellor of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Prof. Sunday Oge Elom has tasked the Iruka Centre to look into the palpable challanges of leadership failure in the Southeast geopolitical zone of the country.

The Vice-Chancellor gave the charge yesterday when the Advisory Committe of the Centre paid him a courtesy call in his office.

The Vice-Chancellor noted the importance of the Centre , urging them to apart from working to enhance and promote the speaking and writing of the Igbo Language among the people to avoid the language going extinct; but also to look at the problem of leadership failure in Igbo land.

"I am happy about the establishment of the Iruka Centre. Apart from developing ways to stop the extinction of the Igbo language; the Centre should also look at the problem of leadership failure in Igbo land", the Vice-Chancellor stated.

The Vice-Chancellor further stated that the University will be floating a new optional General Studies course, geared towards the promotion of Igbo language among interested students of the University.

Earlier while giving her opening remarks, the Acting Director of the Centre, Dr. Ann Onyinye Nwankwo, stated that their visit was to convey their unalloyed support to the administration of the University under the leadership of Prof. Elom, and to urge him to remain focused and steadfast in the discharge of his official responsibilities in order to take the University to greater heights .

The highligh of the visit was the presentation of an art work to the Vice-Chancellor by the Advisory Committee led by the Chairman, Prof. Paul Ezeonu. Other members of the Commiittee are Prof. Abel Ezeoha, Prof. Joseph Nwankwo, Prof. Isaac Osakwe, Prof. Rosemary Igbo, Dr. Ann Nwankwo, Dr. Ngozi Eli- Chukwu, Dr. Makuachukwu Ojide, Dr. Arua Oko, Dr. Amobi Ekwe, Barr. Ogochukwu Onuorah and Ms. Chiaka Nnodi.

The Iruka Centre was established in 2020 to study the future of Ndigbo in Nigeria and the diaspora.

A lecturer in the Department of Microbiology, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi staye, Dr Azuama Onyedikachi has been offered a one year post-doctoral position in the Biotechnology centre, Silesian University of Technology, Slaskie, Poland.

The young academic who bagged her doctoral degree in France through the postgraduate scholarship partnership between the University and the French Government will be researching on "Melt Electrowriting of Hard-soft Interfaces Inspired by Deep Sea Sponges" during her time in Poland.

Dr. Azuama was offered the rare position after series of evaluation tests involving over 100 qualified candidates from all over the world of which she was the number one candidate of choice of the Silesian University of Technology, Slaskie, Poland.

While responding to the achievement of Dr. Azuama, the Vice-Chancellor of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Prof. Sunday Elom, commended the scholar for the extraordinary feat, even as he charged her to be a good ambassador of the University in Poland.

He further enjoined other academic staff of the University to continue in the culture of academic excellence which the University is known for in their various disciplines.

AE-FUNAI POST GRADUATE Admission Screening Test Exercise for 2022/2023 session holds as follows:

DATE: Wednesday, 02-11-2022

VENUE: Science Auditorium

TIME: 11:00 am prompt

SCREENING FEE: N5000; Payable @SPGS Account Unit.

NOTE: i. Payment on the day of the Test shall attract a late fee registration fee of N2000.
ii. Candidates should come with evidence of subscription and registration for the screening to the examination.

Thank you
Secretary,SPGS

This is to inform the general public that registration for the 2022/2023 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, 24th October, 2022 and end on Wednesday , 30th November, 2022.
Interested candidates who must have scored 150 and above in the 2022 UTME and who made Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State their first choice institution in their application for admission in the 2022 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) are qualified to apply. However, candidates who applied to study Medicine and Surgery must have a minimum score of 200 while candidates for Law must also have a minimum score of 200 in the UTME to be eligible for the University’s Post-UTME.
AVAILABLE PROGRAMMES
S/N FACULTY PROGRAMME
1 Faculty of Agriculture
1. Agribusiness and Management
2. Agriculture (Agricultural Economics and Extension, Animal Science, Crop Science
3. Soil Science)
4. Fisheries and Aquaculture
2 Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences
1. Anatomy
2. Physiology
3 Faculty of Education
1. Education/English and Literary Studies
2. Educational Administration and 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
4 Faculty of Engineering and Technology
1. Chemical Engineering
2. Civil Engineering
3. Electrical/Electronics Engineering
4. Mechanical Engineering
5. Mechatronic Engineering
5 Faculty of Environmental Sciences
1. Architecture
2. Fine and Applied Arts
3. Geography
6 Faculty of Humanities
1. English
2. French
3. Linguistics
4. Linguistics/French
5. Linguistics/Igbo
6. Theatre Arts
7. Igbo
8. Music
9. History and Strategic Studies
10. Philosophy
11. Religion
7 Faculty of Law
1. Law
8 Faculty of Management Sciences
1. Accountancy
2. Banking and Finance
3. Business Administration
9 Faculty of Biological Sciences
1. Biology
2. Biotechnology
3. Biochemistry
4. Microbiology
10 Faculty of Physical Sciences
1. Chemistry
2. Computer Science
3. Mathematics
4. Statistics
5. Geology
6. Geophysics
7. Physics
11 Faculty of Social Sciences
1. Economics
2. Political Science
3. Psychology
4. Criminology and Security Studies
5. Sociology
6. Mass Communication
12 College of Medical Sciences 1. Medicine and Surgery
NOTE: There shall be no Direct Entry admission into Medicine & Surgery and Law.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Prospective candidates who scored a minimum of 200 for Medicine and Surgery, 200 for Law and a minimum of 150 and above for other programmes in the 2022 UTME and did not choose AE-FUNAI as their first choice institution, but wish to study in AE-FUNAI are eligible to apply for P-UTME. However, such candidates must effect ‘Change of Institution/Course’ to AE-FUNAI on the JAMB Portal on or before Wednesday, 30th November, 2022.This is also applicable to Direct Entry (DE) candidates.
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/ noticed, 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 or QUICK LINKS,
• Click on 2022/2023 UTME Admission Screening OR 2022/2023 Direct Entry Admission Screening
• Click on “Prospective Students”
• Click on “Click to Apply” under 2022/2023 Admission Screening Application
• Enter your “JAMB Registration Number”
• Select your payment mode (Generate Remita Retrieval Reference Number).
• Proceed to any bank for your payment with your Remita number.
• Return to the Application page and enter your “JAMB Registration Number” again.
• Proceed with the completion of the form
• Submit your application.
• Print out your acknowledgement slip.
MODE OF SCREENING:
The screening mode for the 2022/2023 academic session PUTME shall be through the process of assessment of JAMB UTME results, verified O/ Level and Direct entry results. *There shall not be PUTME Computer Based Test ( CBT)* .
All candidates are requested to ensure that their O/ Levels and Direct Entry results are uploaded on JAMB Central Admissions Processing System (CAPS) on or before Wednesday, 30th November, 2022. Any PUTME application without result upload will not be processed.
For support:
E-mail: info@funai.edu.ng
Hotline: 08170899288
For Enquiries:
E-mail: info@funai.edu.ng
Tel; 08067558863, 07017023215 , 07031810065, 08038678738.
Signed:
Odisa C. Okeke (Mrs.)
Registrar

To mark the end of their 2022 Week, the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, Ebonyi State chapter, organized a public speaking competition for the two major universities in Ebonyi State – Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike (AE-FUNAI) and Ebonyi State University (EBSU), Abakaliki.

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Izuchukwu Ezeokoli speaking at the event
The theme of the competition was” The Nigerian of our Dream Come 2023: A Call for Redefined Professionalism and Transparency in the Practice of Public Relations”

After a keenly contested competition marked with serious intellectual intercourse and shear display of oratory prowess by the students, the AE-FUNAI representatives made up of Ezeokoli Izuchukwu and Osim Bassey, both 400 level students of the University, were adjudged winners with 36 points.

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Osim Baseey presenting his points at the competition
Of late students of the University have been making waves in public speaking and debate competitions accross the country, with the Debate Team of the University meant to represent the country in Kenya later this year .

The event which held at ANSON Hotel and Suites, Ajacent Roban Stores, Old Enugu Road, Abakali, on Friday, 16th September, 2022 also witnessed the unveiling of the Volume 3, No. 2 of the South -East Journal of Public Relations, a publication of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, Ebonyi State

While commending the students of the two universities for their intellect, oratory ability and capacity for logical reasoning, the immediate past Chairman of the Institute in Ebonyi State, Mr. Barry Oko Enya noted that he was awed by their presentations and good grasps of the topic of discussion.

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Rep. of the President and Chairman of Council, NIPR, Mallam Muktar Zubairu Sirajor presenting a certificate to the PRO, AE-FUNAI, Elom Iyke Ubochi on behalf of the University while Mrs. Adeola Oyeleke and the two students – Izuchukwu Ezeokoli and Osim Baseey watch on
He also used the opportunity to encourage the Nigerian youths to take their destinies in their hands by ensuring professionalism and transparency in their chosen fields of endeavour, in order to achieve the goal of making Nigeria the country of their dream.

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The University team lead by PRO, Elom Iyke Ubochi, and Mrs Adeola Oyeleke, Izuchukwu Ezeokoli , Osim Bassey and others displaying the certificate after winning the competition

The Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN) has donated some academic books to Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State. The books were donated in recognition of the University’s pride position in the Nigerian Education System.

Presenting the books yesterday during a courtesy call on the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Sunday Eom, the President and Chairman of Council of the association, Prof. Benjamin Osisioma, who was represented at the event by the Chairman, Ebonyi State Chapter, Dr. Louis Chinedu Nkwagu, noted that the books were donated in recognition of the University’s pride place in the Nigerian Education System.

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Rep. of VC, Prof. Abel Ezeoha (R) receiving copies of the books from Chairman, ANAN, Ebonyi State Chapter, Dr. Louis Nkwagu during the visit
“On 5th May, 2022, the President and Chairman of Council of the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN), Prof. B. C. Osisioma, celebrated his retirement from Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State at an enviable age of 70. In that event, a number of books were unveiled and consequently, the President and Chairman of Council in recognition of the pride place of your institution in Nigerian education system approved for the presentation of copies of compendium and festschrift to you for the university library.”

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Chairman, ANAN, Ebonyi State Chapter, Dr. Louis Nkwagu speaking the visit


Continuing the Chairman noted that the University was one of the selected institutions to benefit from the donation, which is composed of two book titles of 4 copies. The books are “Values and Ethics in Leadership and Government: A Millennial Challenge” and “Governance and Professionalism in the 21st Century: Accountants Blueprint” – a festschrift in honur of Rev. Canon Prof. Benjamin Chuka Osisioma.



He also used the opportunity to appeal for the continued support of the University management to the professional development of their members who are staff of the University, especially by sponsoring them to attend professional development programmess like seminars, workshops, conferences and others.

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Rep. of VC, Prof. Abel Ezeoha speaking at the event


While giving his response, the Vice-Chancellor, who was represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Administration, Prof. Abel Ezeoha thanked the association for choosing the University as one of the beneficiaries of the books, adding that the University had also received some computers and accounting software from the association in 2019 when Prof. Osisioma led the national executive of the body to the University.



He explained that the materials and equipment donated by the association helped in the establishment of an accounting laboratory in the University and in the accreditation of the University’s accounting programme by both the National Universities Commission and its professional body.

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Rep of VC, Prof. Abel Ezeoha (6th L), DVC, Academic, Prof. Dennis Akoh, Registrar, Odisa C. Okeke (Mrs), rep. of Bursar, Mr. Gabriel Idume and Librarian, Dr. Juliana Akidi in a group photograph with the Chairman, ANAN, Ebonyi State chapter, Dr. Louis Nkwagu (5th R) and some members of his executive during the visit


On the issue of professional development of the University staff who are members of ANAN, the Vice-Chancellor, noted that the University is one family that lives and works together as a team, adding that the internal policies of the institution are geared towards building internal cohesion, and assured of the management’s support to the professional training and development of the concerned staff in relation to availability of funds.



He further maintained that from inception, the University had designed its curricula in a way to collaborate with professional bodies like ANAN.

The Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN and the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Maitama, Abuja branch have donated some engineering books to the Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State.

While presenting the resource materials made up of 8 and 6 titles respectively to the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sunday Elom, at his office during a courtesy call yesterday, the Head, Council for Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), Ebonyi State Office, Abakaliki, who is also the Chairman, Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Maitama branch, Engr. Oladipupo Isiaka Mabogaje, noted that the two bodies were encouraged to make the donations because of the exploits of students of Engineering of the University in COREN and other engineering competitions.

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Chairman, Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Maitama branch, Engr. Oladipupo Isiaka Mabogaje (C) presenting the books to the rep. of VC, Prof. Abel Ezeoha (R) while the Ag. Dean, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Engr. Dr. Chukwunonye Ezea, watches


He added that as part of the community engineering and corporate social responsibility of the organizations, they decided to donate some engineering books and journals for the fulfillment of engineering dreams of students, adding that AE-FUNAI is one of many universities that have benefitted in that regard. He also used the opportunity to call for academia/industry collaboration in order to improve the quality of graduates of engineering in Nigeria.

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Rep. of VC, Prof. Abel Ezeoha (R) welcoming the Chairman, Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Maitama branch, Engr. Oladipupo Isiaka Mabogaje, to the University during the visit


Engr. Mabogaje explained that the books are relevant for the accreditation of engineering programmes by COREN and other regulatory agencies, and itemized the books donated by COREN as follows: Engineering Code of Conduct, Official Gazette (cost of engineering, regulations on the construction industry, licensing of engineering firms regulation, regulations for engineering appraisal/valuation and Act f Engineers, 208), Engineering Practitioners Firms and Publication of Annual Registers, Regulations Monitory (ERM), Guidelines for Regulations of Engineering Practitioners (Personnel and Firms), Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria, Accreditation Manual for Engineering Programmes in Nigerian University and Nigeria Erosion and Watershed Management Project.



Continuing, he enumerated the ones donated by NSE as: Technology Engineering and Development, Introduction to Reliability Engineering, Local Content (Energy transition), Procurement Act, 2007, The Nigerian Engineer: The 4th Industrial Edition and Telecommunication: Principles and System.

The Vice-Chancellor, who was represented at the event by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Administration, Prof. Abel Ezeoha, while receiving the books appreciated the two organizations for their philanthropic gesture towards the University.

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Rep. of VC, Prof. Abel Ezeoha speaking during the visit


He noted that the 5 Engineering programmes of the University have been fully accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC) and the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), adding that since the programmes were mounted, the University has continued to improve their facilities and other resources to ensure that the students are adequately trained to meet the needs of the 21st century economy.



He also stressed the importance of building functional relationships between the academia and industries in making engineering programmes practical-oriented, adding that the University has continued to sponsor its staff to relevant trainings in different fields of Engineering to imbue them with problem-solving skills that will rub-off positively on the training of students.

Earlier, the Acting Dean, Faculty of Engineering and Technology,Engr. Dr. Chukwunonye Ezea, had noted that the donation was one of the fruits of their collaborative relationships with different organizations geared towards improving the resource-base of the Faculty.

The authorities of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State wish to inform the general public that its 2022/2023 Post-UTME Application Form is not yet on sale.The University is yet to announce any date for the commencement of the sale of Post-UTME Application Forms for the next academic session.The general public is hereby advised to disregard any information making the rounds on the social media, especially on NEWSONLINE, an online media platform, to the effect that the University has commenced the sale of 2022/2023 Post-UTME Application Forms. Accurate and reliable information about the University and its activities can always be sourced on the university’s website – www.funai.edu.ng.Please, be properly guided.
Elom Iyke Ubochi MinstPM, aniprHead, Public Relations & Information/PRO

ADMISSION INTO THE ALEX EKWUEME FEDERAL UNIVERSITY, NDUFU-ALIKE, CENTRE FOR EDUCATIONAL SERVICES (JUPEB AND PRE-DEGREE PROGRAMMES) 2022/2023 SESSION

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

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

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

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





AGRICULTURE 1 Agribusiness Management
2 Agric Economics & Extension
3 Animal Science
4 Crop Science
5 Soil Science
6 Fisheries and Aquaculture
BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES 1 Biochemistry
2 Biology
3 Biotechnology
4 Chemistry
5 Microbiology
COLLEGE OF MEDICAL SCIENCES 1 Anatomy
2 Physiology
3 Medicine & Surgery

EDUCATION 1 Agricultural Science Education
2 Biology Education
3 Business Education
4 Chemistry Education
5 English and Literary Studies Education
6 Guidance & Counseling Education
7 Mathematics Education
8 Physical & Health Education
9 Physics Education
10 Vocational &Technical Education
ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY 1 Chemical Engineering
2 Civil Engineering
3 Electrical and Electronics Engineering
4 Mechanical Engineering
5. Mechatronics Engineering
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES 1 Architecture
2 Fine and Applied Arts
3 Geography
HUMANITIES 1 English and Literary Studies
2 French
3 History & Strategic Studies
4 Igbo
5 Linguistics/Igbo
6 Linguistics/French
7 Linguistics/English
8 Music
9 Philosophy
10 Religion
11 Theatre Arts
LAW 1 Law
MANAGEMENT SCIENCES 1 Accounting
2 Banking and Finance
3 Business Administration
SOCIAL SCIENCES 1. Criminology & Security Studies
2. Economics
3. Political Science
4. Psychology
4 Sociology
5. Mass Communication
PHYSICAL SCIENCES 1. Applied Geophysics
2. Computer Science
6 Geology
7 Mathematics
8 Physics
9 Statistics

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

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

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






GENERAL INFORMATION
a) Applicants into 2022/2023 JUPEB and Pre-degree programmes are advised to check the AE-FUNAI CES website (www.ces.funai.edu.ng) for other relevant information.
b) Applicants must provide a recent colored passport photograph (taken not earlier than 3 months before the time of application) with a white background. Selfies, blurred and webcam photos are strictly prohibited. Applicants who upload wrong bio-data and credentials will be disqualified and forfeit application fee.
c) Applicants are to report to the AE-FUNAI CES for Registration and Screening, ONLY when they have received an Invitation (through e-mail) and Admission Letter approved by the Director. Applicants are hereby advised to use valid e-mail addresses and PERSONAL telephone numbers.
d) Applicants are advised to follow the application instructions carefully and ensure they follow the stipulated guidelines. Failure to do so may adversely affect the candidate. For application related inquiries, please see the detailed Candidate Guide at www.ces.funai.edu.ng/guide-for-candidates or contact the Webmaster via webmaster@ces.funai.edu.ng.

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

FURTHER ENQUIRIES
All inquiries are to be made to the Secretary, Centre for Educational Services. Contacts: 07037219664, 07035232317, 08032126424 and 08067754836. (Please call during office hours only, 8 am-4 pm). E-mail: info@ces.funai.edu.ng

CLOSING DATE
Submission of online forms will close on Wednesday, 31st August 2022 at 11.59 pm.


Odisa C. Okeke (Mrs.)
Registrar

AE-FUNAI VC INAUGURATES COMMUNITY MEDICINE OUTPOST FOR TRAINING OF MEDICAL STUDENTS
Hands over Facility to AE-FUTHA
The Vice-Chancellor of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Prof. Sunday Elom, has inaugurated an ultra-modern community medicine outpost constructed by the Federal Government for the training of the medical students of the University and the provision of quality health services for the general public.

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Rep. of VC, Prof. Ameh Dennis Akoh (3rd L) inaugurating the Community Medicine Outpost while the rep. of the CMD, AE-FUTHA, Dr. Richard Ewa watch with keen interest


The facility which is located at Ebunwana in Afikpo South Local Government Area of Ebonyi State is one of the eleven of such modern health facilities situated in different parts of the country, geared towards the provision of 21st century medical education to students and an avenue for providing quality health services to the people.



Equipped with MRI, dialysis and moveable x-ray machines as well as other very important modern hospital equipment, the facility will mitigate the numerous challenges patients/end users face in accessing Medicare due to inadequacy of such vital and high caliber equipment in many hospitals across the state and beyond.

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Some of the equipment in the health facility


While speaking during the inauguration and handing over ceremony of the facility to the Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki, the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Sunday Elom who was represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic, Prof. Ameh Dennis Akoh noted that the community medicine outpost was for the teaching and training of medical students, and for the health benefits of humanity.

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Another set of equipment in the health facility


He stressed that the completion and equipping of the facility is a major milestone in the administration of the Vice-chancellor, and used the opportunity to thank the former Senator representing Ebonyi South in the National Assembly, Chief Sonni Ogbuoji for facilitating the construction of the hospital. He also thanked the Ebonyi state government for its approval for AE-FUNAi to take over the old general hospital, where the community medicine outpost was built. He further used the opportunity to call for the continued support of the Ebunuwana community to ensure the smooth take off and running of the hospital.

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Some of the buildings in the facility


The Chief Medical Officer (CMD), Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki, Dr. Emeka Onwe Ogah who was represented by the Chairman, Medical Advisory Committee (CMAC), Dr. Richard Ewa, while receiving the handover documents, noted that the facility, when put into maximum use will attract patients from all over the country because of the quality of machines that were installed in it. He assured that they will work together with the university management and the host community to ensure seamless operation and optimum service delivery in the facility.

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Rep, of the CMD AE-FUTHA, Dr. Richard Ewa (2nd L) receiving the handover documents from the rep. of the VC, AE-FUNAI, Prof. Ameh Dennis Akoh while others applaud


In his own submission, the Provost College of Medical Sciences, Prof. Paul Ezeonu called for synergy among the critical stakeholders in order to ensure efficient service delivery in the hospital, adding that with the caliber of modern equipment installed in the facility, both the medical students and the end users will benefit immensely from it. He also urged the host community to ensure peaceful coexistence between them and the staff and students of the hospital.

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Some other sets of hospital equipment in the facility


Speaking on behalf of the Ebunuwana Community, the President General of the Town Union, Prof. Ama Odu expressed their happiness on the completion and inauguration of the project, assuring that the community would support the management of the hospital to ensure the full optimization of the health benefits of the facility to their people. He also pleaded with the management of the hospital to carry them along in its decisions.

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Generating sets to power the equipment


Earlier, the University Management had paid a courtesy call on the traditional ruler of Ebunwana, His Royal Highness, Ezeogo Sir Charles O. Azuenya, the Owu XII of Ebunwana, Edda, who promised to give the necessary cooperation and support for the effective running of the hospital.

Some of the buildings in the Community Medicine Outpost include: Doctors/Nurses quarters, Students’ hostel, Modular Theatre, Diagnostic Centre. MRI/Radiology Centre, OPD/Wards etc

Dr. Charles Ogbaekirigwe of the Department of Business Administration, Faculty of Management Sciences, has assumed duty as the Acting Director, Centre for Educational Services (CES), Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State.

He took over from Prof. Michael Onuu, who is proceeding on a one-year sabbatical leave in the United States of America following his appointment as a visiting professor.
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Acting Director, CES, Dr. Charles Ogbaekirigwe (L) receiving the hand over notes from the former Director of the Centre, Prof. M. U. Onuu



While speaking during a brief handover ceremony on Thursday, 30th June, 2022, Dr. Ogbaekirigwe assured of his utter commitment to the ideals of the Centre, adding that he was going to build on the solid foundations already laid by his predecessor.

He noted that though he was stepping into a big shoe, nevertheless he maintained that under his watch, the Centre would be taken to greater heights as he was acquainted with its activities having been part of it for a long time as Deputy Director.
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Acting Director, CES, Dr. Charles Ogbaekirigwe speaking during the event



He also used the opportunity to call for the unalloyed support of the staff of the Centre, assuring them of fairness and firmness in the discharge of his new responsibilities.

Earlier in his valedictory speech, the former Director of the Centre, Prof. Onuu thanked the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sunday Elom for appointing and supporting him to excel in the office, explaining that the staff of the Centre were also very supportive, which led to the numerous achievements he was able to make during his time.
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Former Director, CES, Prof. Michael Onuu speaking during the ceremony



He emphasized that during his tenure, the numbers of students for both the Pre-degree and JUPEB Programmes increased proportionately in comparison to the figures he met, which in turn has helped to shore up the internally generated revenue of the University. He further stated that he was also able to revive the ICT unit to become business-oriented in order to generate revenue for the Centre by providing photocopying, typing, registration and other students’ support services.



Prof. Onuu also urged the staff to take their official duties seriously as if it is their personal business, charging them to shun fraud and flagrant stealing of government funds. He finally called on the staff to give the new Acting Director of the Centre their maximum support, noting that he will also be available for advice if it is needed.

Dr. Ogbaekirigwe’s appointment as the Acting Director, Centre for Educational Services (CES) was approved by the Vice-Chancellor on 2nd June, 2022 for a period of one year, starting from 1st July, 2022.