₦airaland Forum

ae-funai vc lauds partnership with university of gavle, sweden on mobility programme
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sunday Elom has lauded the partnership between Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State and the University of Gavle, Sweden, on staff and students’ mobility programme.
The Vice-Chancellor gave his commendation recently when 10 academic staff of the University that benefited from the exchange programme paid him a courtesy call in his office. The staff were in Sweden under the framework of Linnaeus+ and Erasmus+ exchange projects from May 14th to June 4th, 2022.


Prof. Elom equally noted that the travel was at no financial cost to the university, and therefore lauded the gains of the mobility programme, especially in the capacity building of the University academic staff, adding that through it, the beneficiaries had been exposed to international best practices in the areas of teaching and learning.
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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom (4th R) in a group photograph with some of the academic staff that returned from Sweden recently
While thanking the Vice-Chancellor for his support, the Director of Academic Planning, Prof. Dr. Johnny Ogunji stated that the programme enabled the staff to cross-fertilize ideas with fellow academics in the University of Gavle, Sweden, stressing that they also studied new things and acquired additional knowledge which they intend to replicate in the course of discharging their academic responsibilities as lecturers in AE-FUNAI.

He also used the opportunity to present 28 book titles to the Vice-Chancellor for the University library, which according to him were donated to the contingent by the library authorities of the University of Galve, Sweden.
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DAP, Prof. Dr. Johnny Ogunji presenting 28 book titles to the VC, Prof. Sunday Elom, for the University library

The staff who made the journey were; Prof. Dr. Johnny Ogunji, Dr. Christiana Igberi, Dr. Rowland Uwakwe, Dr. Chidiebere Duru ad Dr. Chinwe Ogunji. Others are; Dr. Ikechukwu Ukeje,Mr. Kelechi Meziobi, Mrs. Chidiebere Ojemuyide and Mrs. Enuma Icha-Ituma.
More so, three students of the Faculty of Education of the University - Ovu Samuel Onyedikachi (Educational Foundations), Okonkwo Ada Chidinma Esther (English and Literary Studies Education and Okorie Chinedu John (Science Education) had also traveled to Sweden in February 2022 on a 6-month exchange programme at the University of Gavle.

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Some of the staff in a group photograph at the University of Galve, Sweden
We may recall that in 2018 Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State established collaboration with the University of Gavle, Sweden on staff and students’ exchange programme.

The Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU) has selected a postgraduate student of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi state, Uchenna Miracle Ogbu, for the 2022 summer school scheduled for the United Kingdom.
Ogbu who is of the Department of Biology (with specialization in Hydrobiology and Fisheries Biology), Faculty of Biological Sciences will be representing Nigeria at the event scheduled to run from 31st July to 8th August, 2022 at Leeds Trinity University, United Kingdom. A total of 40 young scholars from 15 different countries, including Nigeria, will be attending the event.



With the theme, “Sports and Regeneration: Driving Sustainability, Community and Wellbeing”, the week-long event is geared towards exploring such topics as Sustainability and Sustainable Development Goals, Good governance and Financial Sustainability within the sports sector. Other activities include workshops, cultural night, talent show, award night and a trip to the beautiful city of York.

While presenting the student to the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sunday Elom recently, the Director of Academic Planning, Prof. Dr. Jonny Ogunji, who also doubles as the Director of Internationalization, Advancement and Global Ranking, noted that the ACU summer school is a cultural exchange and international networking event, which brings selected young scholars including final year undergraduate, Masters’ and PhD students across the Commonwealth nations with different academic backgrounds to discuss key issues of global relevance.

Continuing, Prof. Ogunji stated that the young scholars will be exposed to several developmental trainings and skill acquisition programmes as well as individual and groups tasks in line with the theme of the event, adding that the summer school also serves as an opportunity for young scholars to gain learning experience on new cultures and beliefs as they interact and network with scholars from different cultural and academic backgrounds.
In his response, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Elom commended the Directorate of Internationalization, Advancement and Global Ranking for its dogged efforts in linking the University to the outside world, and assured of his administration’s continued support in making sure that AE-FUNAI is globally-recognized for the quality of its academic activities. He also charged Ogbu to be a good ambassador of the University during the summer event.

Even as AD Scientific Index lists 10 best scientists in AE-FUNAI
Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, has been ranked 34 out of 258 universities in Nigeria in academic citations by the AD Scientific Index 2022. The ranking which covers the last 5 years also saw the university ranked 225 in Africa and 5, 597 in the world respectively.

In the area of h-index, the University was ranked 30 in Nigeria, 216 in Africa and 5, 404 in the world, and in the i10-index, the University ranked 39 in Nigeria, 231 in Africa and 5, 528 in the world.

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According to the leading global ranking body based in Turkey, in the category of h-index, the ranking reflects both the number of publications and the number of citations per publication while the i10-index shows the number of articles with at least 10 citations.

Meanwhile, AD Scientific Index 2022 has also listed 10 best scientists in Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, in 2022. In the order of their rating, they are; Dr. Chinedum O. Eleazu, Engr. Prof. Onurgbu O. Ugwu, Prof. Chukwunonso E. C. C. Ejike, Dr. Anthony Chinonso Ekennia, Dr. Chukwunonso Peter Okoli, Dr. Nwogo Ajuka Obasi, Dr. Robert Onyeneke, Dr. Ademola C. Famurewa, Prof. Dr. Jonny Ogunji and Prof. Moses Alo.

While commending the steady rise of the university in the various world universities rankings and the research output of its staff, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sunday Elom assured of his administration’s continuous support to research development and other academic activities by putting in place all the necessary facilities and methodologies that are needed to ensure academic excellence in the University.

Scholars in Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, have continued to put their names and that of the University in the front burner of national and international discourse in the area of research, development and innovation.

Recently, 5 lecturers of the University obtained post-doctoral fellowships from renowned international universities and a reputable research institute based in Nigeria, where they are billed to carry out life-changing scientific studies in various fields of life.



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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom (C) in a group photograph with the TETFund Desk Officer,Dr. Makuachukwu Ojide (1st R) and three of the scholars, Dr. Sharon Oluchukwu Azubuike-Osu, Dr. Thomas Ojonugwa Daniel and Dr. Ademola Famurewa, when they visited the VC in his office


The scholars include Dr. Ademola Clement Famurewa of the Department of Medical Biochemistry, who will be carrying out a study on “Mechanistic Assessment of the Effect of Nigerian Herbal Products on the Efficacy of Conventional Chemotherapy in Breast and Postrate Cancer Cell Lines”, at the Liverpool John Moores University, United Kingdom; Dr. Sharon Oluchukwu Azubuike-Osu of the Department of Physiology, will be researching on “The Functional Role of the Complement System in Arteriogenesis”, at the Ludwig-Maximilian Universitat Munchen, Germany; Anthony Chinonso Ekennia of the Department of Chemistry, will be heading to the University of Oregon, United States of America where he will be carrying out a scientific study on “Molecular Design of Heterogeneous Catalysts for Electrochemical Hydrogen Product…; and Dr. Thomas Ojonugwa Daniel of the Department of Physics, will be carrying out a study on “Development of Perovskite-based Mesoscopic Solar Cells (PMSCS) using a Plantinum-based Multiwalls Carbon Nanotubes (PTMWCNTS) as Counter Electrode”, at the University of Kwazulu-Natal, South Africa.

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Dr. Anthony Oko Isu


Meanwhile, Dr. Anthony Oko Isu of the Department of Agribusiness and Management has also obtained a post-doctoral fellowship at the Nigerian Institute of Social and Economic Research (NISER), Ibadan, Oyo State. Dr. Isu was selected after a keenly contested written and oral interview involving over 100 scholars from different universities in Nigeria.

While receiving the scholars in his office, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sunday Elom commended their research resourcefulness, noting that their scholarly output has put the University on the global map. He further enjoined them to ensure they come back to the University after the expiration of their fellowship programme abroad, adding “We will salvage this country together, and that can done through research, development and innovation.”

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom in a handshake with one of the scholars, Dr. Ademola Famurewa while Dr. Sharon Oluchukwu Azubike-Osu and Dr. Thoma Ojonugwa Daniel watch with keen interest


Speaking earlier, the University’s TETFund Desk Officer, Academic Staff Training and Development, Dr. Makuachukwu Ojide, commended the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Elom, for providing the necessary support that ensured the successful submission of the post-doctoral applications, adding that the Vice-chancellor had earlier charged them to ensure that the University’s scholars takes advantage of the TETFund-sponsored post-doctoral fellowship.

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TETFund Desk Officer, Academic Staff Training and Development, Dr. Makuachukwu Ojide
He also expressed his gratitude to the members of the University TETFund Committee for their unalloyed support during the selection process, noting that the beneficiaries are the first batch of scholars in the University to benefit from post-doctoral fellowship.



While congratulating the scholars on the success of their applications, Dr. Ojide urged them to remain good ambassadors of the University, even as he advised them to keep to the terms of the bond they signed with the University. He added that the scholars were expected to use the University as their institution of affiliation in all publications as it will enhance the ranking of the University locally and internationally.

FUNAI JOURNAL OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY (FJST) JOINS AFRICAN JOURNALS ONLINE (AJOL)
The FUNAI journal of Science and Technology (FJST), an international scientific journal that is domiciled in Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State has joined the African Journals Online (AJOL).

This was made known by the Assessment Officer, African Journals Online, Kylie van Zyl in a mail addressed to the Managing Director, FUNAI Journal of Science and Technology, Dr. Amobi Ekwe.

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Maiden issue of FUNAI Journal of Science and Technology


African Journal Online is the world’s largest and preeminent platform of African-published scholarly journals. It works to increase global and continental online access, awareness, quality and use of African-published, peer-reviewed research.



With this milestone, the FUNAI Journal of Science and Technology (FJST) will be indexed, abstracted and referenced by the African Journals Online, which will enhance its visibility, authorship and readership around the globe.

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African Journals Online (AJOL)
Speaking recently on the importance of the milestone, the Editor-in-Chief of the FUNAI Journal of Science and Technology, Prof. Michael Onuu, noted that the feat was achieved after years of processing several applications and correspondences.

He stressed that it was a very important milestone in the history of the journal, adding that it will also have a far-reaching and wide-ranging effect in terms of authorship and readership.

Three lecturers of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, have been ranked among the top 500 authors by scholarly output in Nigeria in the last 3 years – 2018 to 2021 by SciVal.

SciVal is a web-based analytics solution with unparalleled power and flexibility that provides comprehensive access to the research performance of over 20, 000 research institutions and their associated researchers from 230 nations worldwide, SciVal allows academics to visualize their research performances, benchmark relative to peers, develop strategic partnerships, identify and analyze new, emerging research trends, and create uniquely tailored reports.

The lecturers, Prof. Chinyere Augusta Nwajiuba, Dr. Robert Ugochukwu Onyeneke and Dr. Ademola C. Famurewa were listed in the top 500 scholars in Nigeria by citations, currency and volume of publications in Scopus within the period under review.

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Prof. Chinyere A. Nwajiuba
Nwajiuba is a Professor of Sociology of Education, Department of Educational Foundations of the University. She is currently a visiting professor at the National Universities Commission, Abuja. She was the Pioneer Director, Centre for Enhancement of Teaching and Learning (CETeL), AE-FUNAI (2019-2021). She has served the University as the pioneer Head of Department of Vocational and Technical Education (2016) and the Ag. Dean of Faculty of Education (2017-2019). She has a certificate and a license for Teaching from the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN). She also has a certificate for Teaching and Learning in Higher Education from University of Kent, Canterbury, UK.

Prof. Nwajiuba has keen interest in the effect that teachers have on students learning gains and the professional development needs of new teachers in Higher Education. She regularly facilitates capacity building courses for teachers in secondary and tertiary education. She also has research interest on social problems related to Schooling, Climate Change Education and Comparative Education Studies. She is currently involved in the Association of Teachers Education in Europe (ATEE) Research Development Committee (RDC) Professional Development of Teacher Project investigating characteristics and qualities of innovative teachers. She is the National Representative of Nigeria in the International Study Association of Teachers and Teaching (ISATT), Netherlands. She has published widely in both national and international journals, and has also contributed in book publications. She is currently a European Union NCCRP-NEST consultant on curriculum design of climate change education programme for primary and secondary education in Nigeria. Prof. Chinyere Augusta Nwajiuba was ranked 457th best researcher in Nigeria on scholarly output by SciVal (2018-2021).

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Dr. Robert U. Onyeneke


Onyeneke is a Reader in the Department of Agriculture of the University. He holds a PhD in Agricultural Economics with specialization in Resource and Environmental Economics from Imo State University, Owerri. He has served as the Acting Director of the Centre for Internationalization Linkages, Advancement and Global Ranking as well as the Acting Director of Extension and Community Service of the University. In his research, he seeks to understand the relationship between climate change and sustainable development, with the aim of designing and evaluating policies, programmes and projects. Currently, he is explicitly concerned with economics of climate change; evaluation of agricultural and environmental policies/programmes/projects; and sustainable food systems.



Dr. Onyeneke, to his credit, has many research papers published in international and local journals and peer-reviewed conference proceedings. He received the most Outstanding Researcher Award of AE-FUNAI in 2019 and the Most Productive Researcher Award of the Faculty of Agriculture of the same University in 2018. Dr. Robert Ugochukwu Onyeneke was ranked 437th best researcher in Nigeria on scholarly by SciVal (2018-2021).

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Dr. Ademola C. Famurewa


Famurewa is a Lecturer 1 in the Department of Basic Medical Sciences of the University. He earned a PhD in Medical Biochemistry from the University of Nigeria Nsukka. He had his postdoctoral cancer research training at Amala Cancer Research Centre, Institute of Medical Sciences, Kerala State, India, in 2019. His research interests are Redox Biology, Phytomedicine (Cancer) and Molecular Toxicology. In 2019, he emerged the best oral presenter at the 6th National Conference of the Indian Society of Ethnopharmacology, Jadavpur University, West Bengal, India.



Dr. Famurewa has published 62 papers in leading peer-reviewed scientific journals published in Elsevier, Taylor and Francis, Wiley, MDPI, Dove Medical Press, Thiene (Stuttgart), among others. His recent works and research findings have been published in top journals, including Chemosphere (impact-factor, 7.086), Life Sciences (impact-factor, 5.037), Journal of Inflammation Research (impact-factor, 6.922), and Biomedicine and Pharmacotherapy (impact-factor, 6.529). Dr. Ademola C. Famurewa was ranked 399th best researcher in Nigeria by SciVal on scholarly output (2018-2021).

While expressing his happiness on the feat attained by the three erudite scholars in the comity of Nigerian academics and universities, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sunday Elom commended their academic resourcefulness, and assured of his administration’s continued support to research and other academic activities. He also urged them not to rest on their oars in their stride to provide solutions to the array of problems confronting humanity through research and innovation. The Vice-Chancellor as well challenged other lecturers in the University to breast up to the challenges of the 21st century education that is driven by research and development, and innovation.

Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State has been rated highly in the Times Higher Education (THE) 2022 Impact Rankings of World Universities. This is the first time in the history of the University that it was rated by the renowned and reputable global ranking body.

The University was ranked 6th in Impact among the universities that were rated in Nigeria. It was also rated among the 80 and 1, 406 universities that were ranked in Africa and globally across 106 countries and regions.

The Times Higher Education Impact Rankings measure global universities’ success in delivering the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the discharge of their academic activities – teaching, research and community service (outreach), and stewardship.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Oge Elom
Though, the university performed creditably well across the 17 SDGs, nevertheless, its greatest impact was made in goal 13, which deals with Climate Action. This is a veritable credence on the Campus-Green Initiative of the University which has led to the planting of over 33, 000 trees on campus to confront climate change. The climate action activities of the Centre for Climate Change and Development (CCCD) and the partnership the University has with the Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU), which among other things is also promoting climate action in Ebonyi state, also underscore the sterling performance of the University in that regard.

It is instructive to note that the Times Higher Education 2022 Impact Rankings only rated 9 universities out of over 200 federal, state and private universities in Nigeria. The universities are Afe Babalola University, Covenant University, University of Ibadan, University of Lagos, Landmark University, Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike, Babcock University, Edo State University, Uzairue and Lagos State University. Thus, AE-FUNAI is the only university that was ranked in the Southeast of Nigeria.

The implication of the ranking is that the academic activities of AE-FUNAI have been globally recognized as tailored towards the attainment of the United Nations’ approved Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). And for the University to be one of the 9 universities in Nigeria to be recognized by Times Higher Education for such is a huge milestone, and a credible testament that the University is on the right track to global competitiveness.

AE-FUNAI OBTAINS COREN FULL RE-ACCREDITATION FOR ENGINEERING PROGRAMMES

The Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) has approved the full re-accreditation of 3 Engineering programmes of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State.

The approval is contained in a letter addressed to the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Sunday Oge Elom, dated 7th April, 2022 and signed by the Registrar of the Council, Engr. Prof. Adisa A. Bello.

The affected programmes are: Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Mechatronics Engineering.

Engr. Prof. Bello noted that the effective date of accreditation of the programmes is 5th April, 2022, and it is expected to expire on 6th February, 2027, pointing out that full accreditation is valid for 5 years.

He further stated that there will be post-acreditation visits by the Council within the period of validity to check on the state of facilities and personnel in the accredited programmes, warning that accreditation may be withdrawn if there is clear evidence of falling standard.

While responding to this cheering news, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Elom assured that the University under his watch will continue to improve the quality of its personnel and facilities to meet global standard, adding that the success of the accreditation exercise is a clear testament of his administration's resolve to equipping students with the relevant functional knowledge and sellable skills to make them globally- competitive on graduation.

He further thanked the management, staff and students of the University for their contributions to the success of the accreditation exercise., stressing that students of the affected programmes are now expected to study and graduate without hitches.

The Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) had visited Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, from 1st to 5th February, 2022, for the re-accreditation of 3 undergraduate programmes of the University

ae-funai secure nuc full accreditation for 7 academic programmes
The National Universities Commission (NUC) has given approval for the full accreditation of 7 academic programmes of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State.
The regulatory body conveyed the credence in a letter dated 14th April, 2022, signed on behalf of its Executive Secretary by the Director of Accreditation, Dr. Maryann Sali.
The fully accredited programmes include; Fisheries and Aquaculture (Faculty of Agriculture), Physiology (Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences), Agricultural Science Education (Faculty of Education), Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering (Faculty of Engineering and Technology), Biotechnology (Faculty of Biological Sciences) and Statistics (Faculty of Physical Sciences).
According to Dr. Sali, the implication of the full accreditation is that the status will last for a period of 5 years before the programmes will be presented to the regulatory body for another round of accreditation exercise.
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VC, Prof. Sunday Oge Elom
Recall that the University presented these programmes to the NUC for accreditation during their October/November, 2021 national accreditation exercise.

The outstanding performance (100%) of the University in the accreditation exercise underscores the commitment of the institution under the leadership of Prof. Sunday Oge Elom to quality teaching and learning through the provision of the necessary human and material resources, and infrastructure. The Vice-Chancellor had also vowed on assumption of office to ensure that all academic programmes of the University is approved and accredited by the National Universities Commission and relevant professional bodies.

The students’ debate team of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, has continued to make the university proud in the world of debating, as the team shone like a galaxy of stars in the recently concluded tournament held at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka from March 22nd to 26th, 2022.

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Front Roll: Some members of the University’s Debate Team at the tournament
The open debating tournament brought together 32 teams, comprising of university students, corps members and individuals that are interested in the art of debating as well as professional debaters who locked horns in two categories-professional debating and first timers’ (novice) debating championships respectively.

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Some members of the University Debate team preparing to take the stage at the tournament
The University team to the competition was made of 7 students- 6 speakers and one observer. The six speakers include; Ekemini David Abasi, Igwebuike Chiagoziem, Alayande Faith, Nwele Stanley, Oluamachukwu Cynthia and Uchendu Onwe.



In the first timers/novices’ championship, Igwebuike and Ekemini reached the finals of the competition with cumulative points of 477 and 462 respectively, and the former winning the 2nd position in that event. It is instructive to note that the other representatives reached the quarter finals stage, thus were ranked in the top 8 at the competition. They garnered the following points: Alayande (458), Nwele (450), Oluomachukwu (441) and Uchendu (438). The highest point in this category was 482, which shows that all the members of the university team performed creditably well.

Igwebuike also made it to the semi finals in the professional debating championship, thus emerging in the top 10 in the event.

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Igwebuike Chiagoziem who emerged in 2nd position in the first timers’ championship speaking at the tournament


At the end of the tournament, Igwebuike and Ekemini were ranked 14th and 19th respectively, overall. This shows the serious impact made by the University’s contingent to the event in spite of the fact that the tournament was not only meant for university students, but opened to everyone including professional debaters.

AE-FUNAI STUDENT ELECTED NATIONAL PRESIDENT OF EDUCATION STUDENTS ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA (ESAN)
A 400 level student of Guidance and Counseling, Faculty of Education, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike Ebonyi State, Ekemini David Abasi Nse has been elected the National President of Education Students’ Association of Nigeria (ESAN).

The keenly contested online election held on 19th March, 2022 saw Ekemini who is also the Chairman of the AE-FUNAI Debating Society, defeating two other candidates with 48.1% of the total votes cast.

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Ekemini David Abasi Nse
ESAN is the largest students’ organization in the Nigerian tertiary education system, comprising students of Faculties of Education in federal, state and private universities, and Colleges of Education. ESAN is also the largest movement of undergraduates of any profession in Nigeria.

Ekemini’s election is coming on the heels of Comrade Chukwudi Chukwudubem Anointing’s election as the National President of the Nigerian Universities Engineering Students’ Association (NUESA).

AS STABLE MEDIA LTD DONATES TRANSMITTER
The radio station of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, 104.7 FM is set to commence digital transmission. This is coming at a time when the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Stable Media International Limited, owners and operators of Zanders FM Radio and Television stations, High Chief Kennedy Zanders, donated a digital transmitter to the station.

Speaking during a courtesy call on the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Sunday Elom recently, High Chief Sanders said the gesture was part of the plan to globalize the University through digital radio broadcasting, adding that he choose to collaborate with the Manager of the Radio Station, Mr. Chris Akubuiro, whom he described as a hardworking friend, to bring the vision of having a digitalized radio studio to fruition by donating a higher capacity transmitter for a wider coverage.

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MD/CEO, Stable Media International Limited, Owners and Operators of Zanders FM Radio and Television worldwide, High Chief Kennedy Zanders handing over the digital transmitter to VC, Prof. Sunday Elom (R), during the visit


He further stated that the donation will not only enhance the capacity of the radio station, but also aid it in moving to the level of digitalization which it is aiming at, stressing that achieving the fit will help the students of Mass Communication to cut their teeth in digital broadcasting through hands-on training.

The media mogul also eulogized the Vice Chancellor for putting the necessary plans into motion towards meeting the requirements for the licensing of the station by the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC).

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MD/CEO, Stable Media International Limited, Owners and Operators of Zanders FM Radio and Television worldwide, High Chief Kennedy Zanders, speaking at the event
While receiving the donation, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Elom expressed his delight and thanked High Chief Zanders for his philanthropy, promising to ensure that the transmitter is properly utilized for the smooth running of the radio station, and to the benefit of the university community and the general public.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom speaking during the visit
Earlier, the Manager of the station, Dr. Chris Akubuiro while speaking during the event noted that High Chief Zanders had donated a transmitter to the Radio Station before, but as a result of thunder storm, it was destroyed. This according to him, made them to solicit for more support from High Chief Sanders which led to the donation of a new transmitter with a higher capacity to cover Ebonyi state and beyond.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom (6th R), some Principal Officers, Deans and Directors in a group photograph with High Chief Kennedy Sanders (8th L) during the visit

The Senator representing Ebonyi Central senatorial district in the National Assembly, Chief Obinna Ogba has donated twenty five (25) tables and chairs to the Staff Nursery and Primary School of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State.

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Display of the tables and chairs


While presenting the items to the proprietor of the school and President, AEFUNAI Women Association, Dr. Mrs Chinyere Elom recently, the Senator who was represented by his wife and also the Acting Dean, Faculty of Education of the University, Dr. Mrs. Francisca Ogba, noted that education is a sure way to economic development, adding that when you start early to nurture and mentor children, they will grow to do well in their later years.

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Cross section of the pupils seated on the chairs and tables donated by Sen. Obinna Ogba
While receiving the donation, Dr Mrs Elom who expressed her delight on the kind gesture maintained that Senator Ogba is known for his philanthropy not only in Ebonyi State but across the country. She added that the Senator is a man that has always put smiles on the faces of people through his numerous poverty alleviation programmes, stressing that he has properly utilized the quota of Ebonyi state in the federal government by acquiring some juicy positions for the teeming youths of his district in particular and Ebonyi state in general.

‘’Today, our crèche is benefiting from you and we are happy for your generosity’’, she said.

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Rep. of Senator Ogba, Dr Mrs Francisca Ogba handing over the gifts to the proprietor of the school, Dr Mrs. Chinyere Elom
Dr. Elom equally thanked the Vice-Chancellor; Prof. Sunday Elom for having the spiritual eyes of appointing the Senator’s wife the Dean of Faculty of Education, adding that through her, the University will benefit from the Senator’s good-spiritedness. She emphasized that management, staff and pupils of the staff school will forever be grateful to him.

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Proprietor of the school, Dr Mrs Chinyere Elom speaking at the event


The Head Teacher of the school, Mrs. Afoma Ifemene, who was represented by the Assistant Head Teacher, Nwachukwu Ann thanked Sen. Ogba for remembering the school, adding that the gift came when it was highly needed as the class rooms were short of desks and chairs.

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Dr. Francisca Ogba and Dr. Chinyere Elom in a group photograph with the teachers and pupils of the staff school

Alex-Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike Ebonyi State has won its first ever medal in the Nigerian University Games through Temple Prince Ebenezer, a 400 level student of the Department of Economics, Faculty of Social Sciences at the 26th edition of the games held at the University of Lagos, Akoka.

The student made history by being the first person to win medals for the University at NUGA finals. He won silver and bronze medals in 10, 000 meters and 5,000 meters races respectively at the just concluded games

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Temple Prince Ebenezer (L ) at the podium after receiving his silver medal


Ebenezer while speaking to our correspondent at the event described his performance as an act of God, noting that the laurels have put the name of University in the front burner of national discourse, especially in the Nigerian sports community.

He ascribed his sterling performance at the games to rigorous training and the support they received from the University Management, and commended the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sunday Elom for approving and financing the University’s contingent to the sports fiesta.



Still speaking, Ebenezer encouraged other upcoming athletes to keep on exercising , training and building capacity even when they find things difficult, as one day, they could still write their names in gold.

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Temple Prince Ebenezer (1st L) showcasing his medal with the winners of gold and bronze medals in the 10, 000 meters race
Expressing his satisfaction on the performance of the University’s contingent to the event, Head of Sports Unit, Mr. Yinka Olawoyin said, he was happy with their performance, adding that Ebenezer in particular, has made the University proud.

Mr. Olawoyin ended by thanking the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Elom for first hosting the NUGA Zone O qualifiers early this year and more importantly for releasing the funds needed to make sure the University participated at the NUGA finals in Lagos

History has been made as Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, for the first time, is among the Nigerian Universities that converged at the University of Lagos, Akoka, for the ongoing Nigerian Universities Games, holding from 16th to 26th March, 2022.

The University had participated in the last edition of NUGA on observatory status. Nevertheless, in this 26th edition of the games, the University is competing in 6 sporting events – football (male), basketball (male), taekwondo, table tennis, Chess and Scrabble, having earlier qualified to represent the Southeast, NUGA Zone O in the finals in those events

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The University contingent at the 26th NUGA holding at the University of Lagos during the opening ceremony
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the games held on the 19th of March, 2022, the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof Sunday Elom said he was excited as it is the first time the University is competing in the games, pointing out that at the parade the University’s contingent was outstanding compared to their counterparts from older universities.

He added that with the fighting spirit and sportsmanship being displayed by the University’s contingent, the sporting world should expect something great from them.

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DVC, Academic Prof. Dennis Akoh (R) representing the VC, Prof. Sunday Elom at the opening ceremony


The Vice-Chancellor, who was represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic, Prof Dennis Akoh, advised the contingent not to be scared or intimidated by the antics of students of older Universities who have been participating in NUGA for years, charging them to bear in mind that they are facing their fellow students who also are representing their various universities.

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A cross section of dignitaries at the opening ceremony of the games including the Pro-Chancellor/Chairman, University Governing Council, Emeritus Prof. Nimi Briggs
While speaking after the opening ceremony, the Head of the University’s Sports Unit, Mr. Yinka Olawoyin said the University is competing at the games to win medals; as such the contingent will do their best to ensure that the goal is achieved.

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The University contingent in participating in a parade during the opening ceremony
The highlight of the opening ceremony was the presence of the Pro- Chancellor and Chairman of the University Governing Council, Emeritus Prof. Nimi Briggs who was around to cheer, motivate and wish the University’s contingent well in the games.

The staff and students’ exchange partnership between Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State and the University of Galve, Sweden, has started bearing fruits as three students of the University recently left for Sweden on a 6-month mobility programme.

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Ovu Samuel Onyekachi Okonkwo, Ada Chidinma Esther and Okorie Chinedu John in a group photograph at the University of Galve, Sweden.
The students , Ovu Samuel Onyekachi, Okonkwo Ada Chidinma Esther and Okorie Chinedu John are from the departments of Educational Foundations, English and Literary Studies Education and Science Education respectively, all in the Faculty of Education of the University.

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Ovu Samuel Onyekachi Okonkwo, Ada Chidinma Esther and Okorie Chinedu John in a group photograph at the University of Galve, Sweden.
These students are the first beneficiaries of the programme, though more staff and students are expected to be part of it in the nearest future. The essence is to expose the staff and students of the University to global best practices in teaching and learning, and help them to have international exposure.

We may recall that the University through its Faculty of Education had in 2019 entered into partnership with the University of Galve Sweden on staff and students mobility programme.

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Ovu Samuel Onyekachi, Okonkwo Ada Chidinma Esther and Okorie Chinedu John in a group photograph with their course mates at the University of Galve, Sweden

AE-FUNAI RESEARCHERS, INNOVATORS SHOWCASE WORKS AT 2022 TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION EXPO
A team of researchers and innovators from Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State,is among the various inventors from different parts of the country that are showcasing their intellectual works and inventions at the 2022 Technology and Innovation Expo holding at the Eagles Square, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, from 14th to 18th March, 2022.

Themed “Sustaining National Economic Growth through Science, Technology and Innovation”, the Expo was declared open yesterday by President Muhammadu Buhari, who noted that it was a platform for bringing Nigerian researchers, innovators and scholars together for the purpose of sharing the results of their ideas and innovations.

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VC, represented by DVC, Administration, Prof. Abel Ezeoha (5th R) and Director, Research and Development, Prof. Onuegbu O. Ugwu (5th L) in a group photograph with the University research team at the 2022 Technology and Innovation Expo holding at the Eagles Square Abuja
He explained that this year’s Expo is remarkable because of three reasons. Firstly, the Federal Government awarded scholarships to three young Nigerian scientists and innovators to study in any university within the country up to the doctoral degree level. Secondly is the launching of the 2022 revised National Science and Technology Policy, and thirdly is the commissioning of Nigerian Science and Technology Television to promote knowledge economy through extensive advocacy of technological and innovative ideas among Nigerians in their everyday lives.

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Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, delivering the President’s speech at the opening ceremony of the Expo


The President further noted that no country has ever become great without science, technology and innovation, adding that his administration will continue to support the annual technology and innovations expo in order to promote research and innovations and global competitiveness among Nigerian scientists and innovators.



The Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Sunday Elom while speaking on the sideline of the Expo noted that the University is interested in researches that have impact on the society, adding that the five inventions and innovations the University is presenting at the event were all tailored towards the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

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Rep. of VC, Prof. Abel Ezeoha (1st:2nd line) at the opening ceremony of the event


The Vice-Chancellor who was represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Administration, Prof. Abel Ezeoha, further noted that he was confident the University research team will perform creditably well at the Expo because their works have been earlier subjected to peer review mechanism in the University and were found to be viable.



Also speaking at the University’s stand at the Expo, the Director, Research and Development, Prof. Onuegbu O. Ugwu, called for collaborations between universities and industries in order to translate research ideas and findings into tangible and marketable products.

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Director, Research and Development, Engr. Prof. Onuegbu O, Ugwu speaking at the University’s stand during the event


He further called on governments at all levels to support science, technology and innovation through financial and other investments, noting that a lot of innovative ideas are lying fallow in universities because of lack of government and industrial support.



The University is presenting five research works for assessment at the Expo. They include: Design and Construction of an Automated 500w Solar Photovoltaic Energy Generator for Sustainable and Eco-friendly Rural Communities by Engr. Dr. Uche P. Onochie, Okafor Amos Chukwudi and Ekpe Francis Ayuk; Design and Construction of a 3D Mobile Solar-rechargeable Refrigerator for the Conveyance of COVID-19 Vaccines to Rural Areas in Nigeria by Engr. Dr. Daniel Nmadu and Engr. Uchenna Nwokenkwo; Development of Novel Strategy to Tackle Multidrug Resistance Pathogens such as Pseudomonas Aeruginosa by Azorella by Dr. Onyedikachi Azuama; Fate of Engineered Metal Oxides Nanofluid Applied for Enhanced Oil Recovery on the Tropical Soils of Niger Delta – Nanosafety Approach to Environmental Nanomaterials by Dr. Peter Chukwunonso Okoli, and Production of Smokeless Briquettes using Municipal Wastes by Dr. Frank Ikenna Nwabue.

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Director, Research and Development, Prof. Onuegbu O. Ugwu (3rd L) in a group photograph with the University research team and their inventions at the 2022 Technology and Innovation Expo holding at the Eagles Square Abuja

The irrevocable commitment of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State to academic excellence, by emphasizing production-led and solution-driven research has continued to yield enormous dividends, as 11 of its academic staff and two departments as well as a Centre have secured research grants from international and local institutions and the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) to carry out impactful studies in different areas in 2021 and 2022.

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

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



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

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Dr. Makuachukwu Ojide
On the domestic front, a team of researchers under the leadership of Prof. Onuegbu O. Ugwu of the Department of Civil Engineering, secured a TETFund research grant worth Twenty Five Million Naira (N25, 000, 000) through their work titled “Integrated Decision Support for Sustainable Infrastructure Assessment and Reporting in Nigeria” , and another team of researchers led by Dr. Peter Okoli of the Department of Civil Engineering, through their work titled “Development of Isotope Fingerprinting Protocol for Efficient Implementation of Polluter Pays Principle in the Management of Environmental Pollution Emanating from Lead Mining Activities in Nigeria” further secured a TETFund research grant in the sum of Thirty Nine Million, Eight Hundred and Sixty Two Thousand Naira (N39, 862, 000). Similarly Mr. Ugochukwu C. Okolie of the Vocational and Technical Education, Faculty of Education received N200, 000, which was a balance of a N400, 000 research grant awarded to him 2019.



In addition, the Department of Chemical Engineering secured N2.2m grant from Raw Materials Research and Development Council, Nigeria and the Department of Civil Engineering had a grant of £5,000 from the Royal Academy of Engineering, United Kingdom, while the Centre for Climate Change and Development secured a $40,000 grant from Climateworks Foundation.

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Dr. Chinwe Ogunji
It is instructive to note that these grants underscore the avowed commitment of the AE-FUNAI academic staff to the clarion call of the Vice-Chancellor for them to be utterly focused and dedicated to their responsibilities in order to achieve the University’s vision of becoming a world-class institution.



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

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



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

The Governing Council of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, has poured encomiums on the Pro-Chancellor/Chairman of the Council, Emeritus Prof. Nimi Briggs, for his unparallel contributions to the development of the Nigerian University system, as he clocked 78 years recently.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom (R) handing over a birthday card to the Pro-Chancellor/Chairman, Governing Council, Emeritus Prof. Nimi Briggs to mark his birthday
Briggs, a Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology and a former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Port Harcourt, was born on 22nd February, 1944.



The celebration was led by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sunday Elom and other internal and external members of the University governing council, who converged at the University for their 34th Regular Meeting,

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Pro-Chancellor/Chairman, Governing Council of the University, Emeritus Prof. Nimi Briggs cutting his birthday cake while the VC, Prof. Sunday Elom, President, AE-FUNAI WA, Dr. Chinyere Elom and members of the Council watch with keen interest


While expressing his appreciation for the surprise birthday celebration organized in his honour, Emeritus Prof. Briggs, thanked the Vice-Chancellor and members of the Council for celebrating him, adding that they too would be celebrated in due time.

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Pro-Chancellor/Chairman, Governing Council, Emeritus Prof. Nimi Briggs displaying his birthday card with the VC, Prof. Sunday during the event

The Staff Nursery and Primary School of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike Ebonyi State, recently held its cultural day geared towards celebrating and promoting the cultural heritage of the Nigerian people.

Welcoming the proprietor, Dr. Chiinyere Elom, invited guests, teachers, pupils, parents and guardians to the occasion, the Head Teacher of the school, Mrs. Afoma Ifemene noted that the purpose of organising the cultural day was to train children to embrace their culture, as it is important in the development of society.

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President, AE-FUNAI WA and Proprietor of the school, Dr. Chinyere Elom and Chairman Parents/Teachers Forum, Mr. Emeka Enyi in a group photograph with the teachers during the occasion


She further stated that the population of the school is composed of pupils of different cultures and languages, and thanked the proprietor for her support and efforts in providing critical academic facilities and social amenities in the school which have helped in the growth and development of the pupils.

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Head Teacher of the school, Mrs. Afoma Ifemene speaking during the cultural day
Mrs. Ifemene also pleaded with the proprietor to help in the fencing of the school compound and in putting the remaining class rooms in good shape so that the pupils could learn in a more conducive and enabling environment.

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President, AE-FUNAI WA and Proprietor of the school, Dr. Chinyere Elom and Chairman Parents/Teachers Forum, Mr. Emeka Enyi in a group photograph with the teachers and pupils during the occasion


While delivering her speech at the event, the President, AE-FUNAI Women Association and the proprietor of the school, Dr Mrs Elom noted that the welfare of pupils and staff remains the Management’s top priority, adding that Management has also taken notice of the challenges facing the school in order to arrest the situation without delay.

She also assured that Management put in all the required efforts to ensure that the school attains higher heights, and called for cultural renaissance among Nigerians, especially the youths.

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President, AE-FUNAI WA and proprietor of the school, Dr. Chinyere Elom speaking at the event
Also speaking at the occasion, the chairman of the Parents/Teachers Forum (PTF), Mr. Emeka Enyi noted that he was satisfied with the standard of academic and extracurricular activities in the school.

He further appealed to the School Management to facilitate the construction of perimeter fencing, around the school, provision of more class rooms and employment of more teachers, to match the growing numbers of pupils.

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Chairman, Parents/Teachers Forum, Mr. Emeka Enyi delivering his speech at the occasion


The highlights of the occasion were cultural and dance displays by the pupils and teachers, depicting the different ethnic groups in the country.

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Some of the pupils displaying the artistry of cultural dance

The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), has honoured the Vice-Chancellor of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi state, Prof Sunday Elom with an award of excellence for his meritorious contribution to the development of sports in the Nigerian university system.

Speaking at the award ceremony recently, Mr. Emmanuel Nnaji Anike, the President of Sports Writers Association of Nigeria, Ebonyi chapter, noted that the association was founded in 1967 with the aim of reporting sports and sporting activities happening around the country and beyond.

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Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic, Prof. Dennis Akoh (R) receiving the award on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sunday Elom
He added that the award to the Vice Chancellor of the University was for his commitment to the development of sports in the university system, especially in the Southeast region, noting that the association has been monitoring events in the University like the successful hosting of the 2022 NUGA qualifiers where the institution also qualified to represent the south east in the NUGA finals holding at the University of Lagos in March 2022.

He also used the opportunity to call for partnership between the association and the University, which according to him, would see to the media coverage of all the activities of the citadel of learning.

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Rep. of VC, Prof. Dennis Akoh speaking during the presentation ceremony
While receiving the award, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Elom thanked the association for honouring him with an award of excellence, adding that as a sports lover, he is committed to the development of sports and other social activities in the University to promote peace and conviviality among staff and students.

The Vice-Chancellor who was represented at the event by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic, Prof. Dennis Akoh, also assured of the university’s preparedness to partner with the association in mutually-benefitting areas.

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Rep. of VC, Prof. Dennis Akoh and some principal officers in a group photograph with members of SWAN, Ebonyi state chapter, led by their President, Mr. Emmanuel Nnaji Anike

Bridge Publications International, California, United States of America has donated books to the Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu–Alike, Ebonyi State, through their Global Partnership Manager, Mrs Melisa J. Graffam, to encourage readership among Nigerian students.

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Rep. of the VC, Prof. Abel Ezeoha (2nd R), with the Librarian Dr. Mrs. Juliana Akidi and other Library staff inspecting the books
While giving overview of the donation, the University Librarian Dr. Juliana Akidi said the books are in 35 titles of 450copies and 37 titles in Compact Disk format of 415 copies respectively, adding that it is a blessing to the University as students have more relevant and modern books in diverse areas to read and gain knowledge.

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The University Librarian, Dr. Mrs. Juliana Akidi displaying one of the copies of the journals
She further thanked Mrs. Graffam for facilitating the donation and ensuring that the books were shipped to the University.

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Rep of the VC, Prof. Ezeoha, the Librarian, Dr. Mrs Akidi, Dr. Uche Ufere-Okoroafor and the PRO, Mr. Elom Iyke inspecting the books and journals
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sunday Elom represented by the Deputy Vice-chancellor, Administration, Prof. Abel Ezeoha while receiving the books appreciated the publishing house for their donations, assuring that the books would be domiciled in the University library to ensure that students have unrestricted access to it.

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Rep. of the VC, Prof. Abel Ezeoha inspecting some of the books in the shelf

AE-FUNAI TO REPRESENT NIGERIA AT PAN-AFRICAN UNIVERSITIES DEBATE COMPETITION IN KENYA

Alex-Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike Ebonyi State has qualified to represent Nigeria at the Pan-African Universities Debate competition scheduled for Kenya later this year.

The University’s qualification was cemented at the 9th edition of the All Nigerian Universities Debating Championship and All Nigerian Universities Quiz Challenge themed “Better by Far 2022” held from 13th-19th February, 2022 at the University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Kwara State.
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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom receiving the certificate of university’s participation at the event from the Acting Dean, students’ affair, Dr. Collins Irem, Ekemini David Abasi and one of the participants

While presenting the students that made the University proud at the competition to the University Management yesterday, the Acting Dean, Students Affairs, Dr. Collins Okechukwu Irem, noted that though it was the first time the University participated in such national competition, yet out of the 93 Universities that participated in the competition, AE-FUNAI excelled in the three categories of the tournament – public speaking, debate and quiz competitions, thus qualified to participate in the Pan-African Universities Debate Competition in Kenya and the Nigerian Universities Debate Community tournament scheduled for Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka from 23rd -26th March, 2022..



He explained that in the category of Public Speaking, the University, represented by a 200 level student of the Faculty of Law, Nwele Stanley, emerged as one of the top 10 ranked universities in Nigeria.

Continuing, he said that in the category of Debate, AE-FUNAI was ranked among the top 8 universities in Nigeria, where Ekemini David Abasi, a 400 Level student of Guidance & Counseling, Nwele Stanley, a 200 level Law Student, Igwebuike Chiagozie, a 300 Level student of Biotechnology and Uche Onwe, a 300 Level student of Political Science represented the University.
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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom (c) in a group photograph with the students and staff, Festus Nwode (4th R), that represented the University at the competition

Dr. Irem further stated that in the Quiz competition, the University through Faith Ajoke and Covenant Nnadozie, both 200 level students of the Faculty of Law made it to the quarter final.

Relishing their experience at the competition, President of the University’s Debate & Quiz Club, Ekemini hinted that in order to groom and train students for future competitions, the Club intends to commence an annual debate and quiz tournament in the institution. This according to him is also to honor the Vice-Chancellor for his stance on excellence in students’ academic and extra-curricular activities.

He therefore used the opportunity to appeal for the continued support of the Vice-Chancellor in ensuring that members of the Club carry out its activities. He also promised that the team would do their best to represent the University well at the Pan- African Universities Debate Competition coming up in Kenya and the Nigerian Universities Community Debate tournament scheduled for Awka, Anambra state, if sponsored to the two events.
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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom (10th L) and some principal officers in a group photograph with the students and their handlers



The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sunday Elom while responding, said he was excited because the team made the University very proud, and thanked them for a good performance at the tournament.



He pledged to support the activities of the Debate & Quiz Club to ensure they continue to make the University proud in future tournaments, adding that the University would ensure they participate in the two forthcoming competitions. He also gave them cash gift in appreciation of their sterling performances.

The Nigerian University Games Association (NUGA) Council, Zone O has honoured the Vice-Chancellor of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike Ebonyi State, Prof. Sunday Oge Elom with an award of excellence for his outstanding support to the development of sports in the Southeast region.

Speaking during the award ceremony, a member of the Council and Head of AE-FUNAI Sports Unit, Mr. Yinka Olawoyin, said the Nigerian University Games Commission at the national level approved the award to the Vice-Chancellor for his utter commitment to sports development, especially for hosting the NUGA Zone O preliminaries in the University.

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A member of NUGA Council, Mr. Yinka Olawoyin handing over the outstanding leadership award to the VC, Prof. Sunday Elom, for his support to sports development in the southeast region
He also noted that during the preliminaries, 52 students qualified to represent the University at the finals holding at the University of Lagos, from 16th– 26th March, 2022, adding that the university’s contingent to the event will be participating in 6 events which include; football (male), basketball (male), taekwondo, table tennis, Chess and scramble.



While receiving the award, the Vice-Chancellor assured of his continued support to sports development, pointing out that the University sports teams have so far done well in various competitions they participated in..

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom (3rd L) displaying his award with principal officers, DVC, Administration, Prof. Abel Ezeoha, Registrar, Odisa C. Okeke (Mrs.),DVC, Academic, Prof. Dennis Akoh, Librarian, Dr. Juliana Akidi, and rep. of Bursar, Mr. Dapo Jegede


He also urged the selected students to the forthcoming games in Lagos to make the University proud by winning laurels, promising to be at the event to cheer them to victory.



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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom speaking at the event
Still speaking, the Vice-Chancellor said the University Management would do everything possible to support the students to excel in the games.

AE-FUNAI VC COMMENDS CENTRE FOR ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND EMPLOYABILITY FOR RESOURCEFULNESS
The Vice Chancellor, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi state, Prof. Sunday Elom, has commended the Centre for Entrepreneurship and Employability (CEE) for resourcefulness and productivity in the discharge of their mandates.



The Vice-Chancellor gave the commendation recently when the Centre presented some of its household products to the University Management. He expressed his delight on the activities of the Centre, noting that they had performed creditably well by translating their ideas into tangible products.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom and some principal Officers in a group photograph with some staff of the CEE led by the Ag. Director, Dr. Emmanuel Nweze during the presentation ceremony


He equally thanked the Acting Director of the Centre, Dr. Emmanuel Nweze and his team for ensuring that students were part and parcel of the production process, thus empowering them with the requisite skills to be employable and self-reliant on graduation, adding that skill acquisition is the whole essence of entrepreneurial studies.



He further advised the Centre to ensure that their products are properly packaged and branded to show it was produced by the University, and assured of his continued support to the Centre to ensure that it achieves its mandates.



Earlier in his opening remarks, the Acting Director, Centre for Entrepreneurship and Employability, Dr. Nweze said the University cannot adequately fund every of its activities. Therefore, as a Center they decided to set the goals of noting only training students but also translating their ideas into concrete products that could be sold to generate revenue for the University.

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Acting Director, CEE, Dr. Emmanuel Nweze handing over the list of items to VC, Prof. Sunday Elom (R)
He added that the Centre has the capacity to produce and supply office and toilet disinfectants to the university community, especially the hostels at cheap price, if the cost of the production can be made available to them.



He also used the opportunity to call for the continued support of the Vice-Chancellor, stressing the importance of collaboration with critical government agencies and the organized private sector in helping the Center to actualize its goals.



The Centre presented the following items to the University Management during the event: 20 bottles of liquid soap (2 litres each); 150 bottles of liquid soap (1 litre each); 25 bottles of liquid soap (0.5 litre each); 100 tins of toilet disinfectants; 30 tins of disinfectants (small size), 150 tins of disinfectants (big size); 20 tins of toilet wash 1.5 litres each) and 120 tins of toilet wash (1 litre each).

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Cartons of the items

Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, is set to commence the implementation of the Tertiary Institution Social Health Insurance Programme (TISHIP) for the health benefits of its students.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sunday Elom dropped the hint recently while receiving some officials of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) led by the Ebonyi State Coordinator, Dr. Ken Ogbu at his conference room.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom (R) in a handshake with the Ebonyi State Coordinator, NHIS, Dr. Ken Ogbu during the visit


The Vice-Chancellor noted that Management will ensure that all students of the University are registered under the programme to ensure efficient health service delivery in the institution. He also assured that staff will be informed of the enormous benefits of registering with the National Health Insurance Scheme, to enable those that were yet to be registered be captured in the Scheme.



While making his opening remarks, the Ebonyi State Coordinator, NHIS, Dr. Ogbu emphasized the need for staff and students of the University to be registered with the National Health Insurance Scheme and Tertiary Institution Social Health Insurance Programe (TISHIP) respectively, pointing out that the main focus of the Federal Government in establishing NHIS is to provide accessible healthcare for all Nigerians.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom (6th R) and some principal officers in a group photograph with officials of NHIS led by the Ebonyi State Coordinator, Dr. Ken Ogbu (7th L) during the visit


He therefore appealed to the Vice-Chancellor, as a matter of law, to ensure the immediate constitution of a TISHIP Committee to oversee the smooth take-off and management of the programme in the University, in order to ensure quality health service delivery for students.



TISHIP is a health programme of the Federal Government meant for students of tertiary institutions in Nigeria, geared towards providing them with accessible healthcare services within and outside their school campuses, especially at NHIS registered health facilities. It is managed under the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).

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L-R: Ebonyi State Coordinator, NHIS, Dr. Ken Ogbu, VC, Prof. Sunday Elom and Director, Health Services, Dr. Henry Aloh during the visit


Earlier, the Director of Health Services, Dr. Henry Aloh noted that the University keyed into the NHIS in 2013 with over 1, 000 of her staff fully registered in the Scheme. He explained that the reintroduction of the TISHIP in the University will help students to access health services even when they are not on campus.

The Vice-Chancellor, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Professor Sunday Oge Elom has inaugurated the Board of Trustees of the institution’s radio station, 104.7FM.

The constitution and inauguration of the Board is part of the requirements for the licensing of the radio station by the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (NBC).

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom (7thL) and some principal officers in a group photograph with members of Board after their inauguration


Speaking at the event, the Vice-chancellor vowed to support the activities of the station to make it viable and a reference point in this part of the world.



He also congratulated the members of the Board, stating that management has selected the best people to do the work, adding that their selection was based on personal merit and antecedents, and pleaded with them to apply all the seriousness that is required to deliver on their mandate.



Speaking further, Prof. Elom enjoined the Board to put in extra work in order to secure a radio licence for the station in the nearest future.

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Chairman, Management Board of the Radio Station, Prof. Michael Onuu speaking at the event


While speaking during the inauguration, the Chairman, Management Board of the station, Prof. Michael Onuu applauded the Vice-Chancellor for seeing the need to establish a functional radio station in the University, adding that Information and Communication Technology is the way to go in putting the activities of the University in the limelight.



Continuing, he noted that the terms of reference of the Board were to make policy for the running of the station, support the station’s vision and mission and ensure that there is sustainability, and to evaluate performance and support staff as well as review programs.

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Manager, AE-FUNAI Radio, 104.7 FM, Chris Akubiro, speaking at the event


Contributing, the station’s manager, Chris Akubuiro appreciated the Vice-Chancellor for constituting the board, adding that with the caliber of people selected as members, and support of the management, the station will be one of the best in radio programming.



Members of the Committee are: Vice-Chancellor (Chairman), Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Administration, Registrar, Bursar, University Public Relations Officer, Head, Department of Mass Communication, Head, Department of Physics, Head, Department of Theatre Arts, Head, Department of Electrical/Electronics, and Manager, AE-FUNAI Radio station (Secretary/Member).

AE-FUNAI VC TASKS STAFF, STUDENTS ON ‘SORTING’, SEXUAL HARASSMENT, INDECENT DRESSING, OTHERS
The Vice-Chancellor, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Prof. Sunday Elom, has charged the staff and students of the institution to avoid ‘sorting’, sexual harassment, indecent dressing, lateness and absenteeism and other ills that may be inimical to the growth, development and public image of the University.

The Vice-Chancellor gave the charge recently during an interactive meeting with staff to commemorate his one year in office.

“The University under my watch remains irrevocably committed to the culture of seriousness in all academic and administrative activities of the University.”

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom addressing the staff at the occasion
He further noted that the practical steps taken to guarantee the culture of seriousness in the University include; “staff being regular and punctual to work; lecturers attending to their classes regularly and punctually; students returning to campus as soon as school reopens after holidays due to the inception quiz policy; ban on sale of hand outs and textbooks not approved by the University Publication Committee; ban on sorting and all other forms of exam misconduct and ban on indecent dressing and sexual harassment.”



He also appreciated the entire staff and students of the University for their support and cooperation in the first year of his administration, and assured that their welfare would continue to be a top priority of his administration.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom and the President, AE-FUNAI Women Association, Dr. Chinyere Elom at the event


The Vice-Chancellor explained that towards achieving the dream of building a world-class University, all hands must continue to be on deck because world-classness is a gradual process that requires the role of every person in the University.



The event which was held at the Abubakar Adamu Rasheed Auditorium was characterized with praise and worship, prayers led by the Bishop of Grace of God Mission, Abakaliki, Dr. D. M. Ubanatu, and comments, suggestions and advices from staff and students.

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Bishop, Grace of God Mission, Dr. D. M. Ubanatu ministering to the VC, Prof. Sunday Elom and principal officers during the event

The United Share Life Mission, Canada, has donated a carton of drugs to the Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, to improve the wellbeing of students.

The United Share Life Mission is a non-governmental and non-profit organization based in Canada with the goal of improving the lives of indigent people through the provision of access to quality education and healthcare.

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President, United Share Life Mission, Canada, Rev. Dr. Jude Dike presenting some of the drugs to the VC, Prof. Sunday Elom while other members of the group watch
Speaking during a courtesy on the Vice-Chancellor, the President of the organization, Rev. Dr. Jude Dike, said he was mandated by God to carry out the assignment of helping those that cannot help themselves, especially orphans, widows, indigent students and the girl –Child through the provision of quality education and healthcare

He also pledged his commitment to always include the University in their programmes and advised that the drugs be judiciously used for the health benefits of staff and students.

The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sunday Elom, in his response expressed his gratitude to the organization, for their donations and pledged maximum use of the drugs for the good of staff and students. He also poured his heartfelt appreciation to the President of the association, noting that it was the second time the university community has benefitted from their benevolence.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom (7th R) and principal officers in a group photograph with members of the association led by their President, Rev. Dr. Jude Dike (7th L)


While thanking the organization for their continued relationship with the University, the Director, Health Services, Dr. Henry Aloh thanked the President, United Share Life Mission for yet another gesture, noting that in 2018 they donated wheel chairs, walking sticks, eye glasses to the University.



Earlier in her opening remarks, the facilitator of the visit and a member of the organization, who also is a staff of the University, Dr. Mrs. Ngozi Nwudu said the organization is utterly committed to the alleviation of the challenges faced by indigent people, adding that the donation was to help the indigent students in the university.

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The secret to success in leadership is for a man to be ready when his time comes. Sunday Oge Elom, a Professor of Medical Biochemistry is not an accidental Vice-Chancellor. He is a man that has been adequately and properly prepared for the position he presently occupies.

Accordingly, it was not a surprise, especially for those who know his enviable track records as a consummate academic and astute university administrator when the Governing Council appointed him the Vice-Chancellor of the Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, on Tuesday, 19th January, 2021.

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On assumption of office as the 3rd substantive Vice-Chancellor of the University on 11th February, 2021, armed with three specific objectives of sustaining, consolidating and expanding on the achievements of the past administrations of the University, the Vice-Chancellor left no one in doubt that the institution which is regarded as one of the most serious public universities in Nigeria, is headed for a fresh beginning.

As a through-bred academic that is utterly committed to the core values of academic excellence and integrity, he immediately hit the ground running. Consequently, in the last one year of his administration, he did not only build on the foundations laid by his predecessors, he also led change in different aspects of the University.

University has three core mandates – teaching, research and community service. In these three key areas, the University faired modestly well in the past one year. Firstly, in the area of teaching, the Vice-Chancellor on assumption of office had vowed as part of his 16-point agenda, to ensure the accreditation of all the programmes of the University. Thus, in the past one year of his administration, the Nigeria Medical and Dental Council (MDCN) accredited the MBBSS programme of the University which led to the commencement of Clinical training for the pioneer students of the College of Medical Sciences. The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) also accredited the Accounting programme of the University. More so, 6 programmes of the University- Computer Science, Medicine and Surgery, Geology, Religious Studies, Educational Administration, and Guidance and Counseling were also reaccredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC). In addition to these, 7 more programmes – Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Statistics, Biotechnology, Physiology, Agricultural Education, and Fisheries and Aquaculture were presented to the NUC for accreditation in December 2021. Furthermore, 3 engineering programmes- Chemical, Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering were presented to the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) for professional accreditation in January 2022. Results of these accreditation exercises are being expected in few months.

The academic calendar was also maintained which ensured that students were not only graduated on schedule but also mobilized for the National Youth Service Corps programme. The 6th convocation ceremony of the University was also held on Tuesday, 14th December, 2021 where 916 graduates were turned-out with their academic certificates issued to them on the same day. This is unprecedented in the history of public universities in Nigeria. We also want to place on record, that AE-FUNAI was the only public university in Nigeria that mobilized students for NYSC programme in the 2019/2020 academic session (Batch B, July/August, 2021)

Also, in the area of teaching the University was ranked 32 out of 167 universities in Nigeria on the quality of scientists in 2021 by a leading global ranking body based in Turkey, AD Scientific Index. In the July 2021 edition of Webometric World University ranking, the University ranked 50 out of 279 tertiary institutions in Nigeria. Also in the African Continent, the institution was ranked 279 out of 1,952 Institutions. Globally AE-FUNAI ranked 6,006 out of 11,987 institutions in 2021. This is far beyond the performances of old universities.

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Commissioning of an Intellectual Property and Knowledge Transfer Office (IPTTO) in the University by the National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP), Abuja, to enhance research, innovation and development in the University and Southeast region
Secondly, in the area of research and innovation, the University in the last one year of Prof. Elom’s administration acquitted itself creditably well with many of its staff, students and departments winning awards in research and innovations.

Ten academic staff from various faculties obtained research grants locally and internationally amounting to a total of 3.4BN; Centre for Climate Change and Development secured a $4,000 grant from Climate Works Foundation; Department of Chemical Engineering secured N2.2m grant from Raw Materials Research and Development Council and Department of Civil Engineering had a grant of £5,000 from the Royal Academy of Engineering, United Kingdom.

Engr. Dr. Chizoo Esonye of the Faculty of Engineering and Technology emerged 2nd in the 2021 National Academic Publication Competition for academic staff of Faculties of Engineering and Technology in Nigeria and Mr. Ogbonnia Ukie, a lecturer in the Department of Fine Arts, won the 1st prize at the European Union/United Nations- sponsored National Arts competition

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Boniface Chidiebube Godspower of the Department of Mechatronics Engineering (L) presenting his innovation, an “Automated Water Level Regulator Using GSM” to the VC, Prof. Sunday Elom in his office. Boniface came second in the CODET innovation competition for final year Engineering students in the Southeast/South-south regions of the country.
Our students were not left out as three students of Biotechnology, Nwaire ThankGod Kelechi, Bosah Raphael Obiora and Eluh Maximilian Mathew won the 2021 Biotechnology Society of Nigeria 33rd Annual International Conference Quiz Competition. Also, Boniface Chidiebube Godspower of the Department of Mechatronics Engineering came second in the CODET innovation competition for final year Engineering and Technology students in the Southeast/South-south regions of the country through his “Automated Water Level Regulator Using GSM” while Ekpe Francis Ayuk and Okafor Chukwudi Amos of the Department of Mechanical Engineering took 3rd position at the 2021 National Content Science and Technology Innovation Challenge held in Yenaogua, Beyelsa state. And the Department of Theatre Arts’ feature film “Tara’s Diary” won the best musical film award at the 18th Abuja International Film Festival, 2021.

More importantly, still in 2021, the National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP), Abuja, precisely on 6th October, 2021, inaugurated an Intellectual Property and Technology Transfer Office (IPTTO) in the University to enhance research, development and innovation. The IPTTO is the first of its kind in the history of universities in the southeast zone of the Nigeria.

Thirdly, in the area of community service and engagement, the university partnered many international, national and local organizations. These various engagement activities are placing the University in the front burner of national discourse.

The Vice-Chancellor on 16th December, 2021 signed a new Memorandum of Understanding with Campus France for the continuation of the postgraduate scholarship partnership between the university and French government, after the expiration of the first MoU in August 2021. The partnership is the first of its kind in the history of the Nigerian University system, and through it about 42 young academics of the University travelled to France for postgraduate studies on scholarship.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Oge Elom (seated) flanked by some principal officers and some senior staff during the signing of a new MoU on Postgraduate Scholarship partnership between the University and French Government through Campus France


AE-FUNAI is one of the 6 universities in Nigeria selected to collaborate with the Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU) on Blended Teaching and Learning. Through this partnership, the University is building the necessary capacities to ensure smooth take-off and operations of blended teaching and learning in its academic activities.



Also, the University established a bi-institutional collaboration with Tub University, Germany for the Erasmus + programme. Through the collaboration two of our lecturers travelled to Germany in November 2021 on the Erasmus + mobility programme. The partnership has also attracted Engineering equipment to the University.

In spite of these worthy international engagements, it is also instructive to note that the Vice-Chancellor had on assumption of office embarked on shuttle diplomacy to all strategic stakeholders within the university and its host community to ensure industrial harmony and peaceful coexistence which are needed for seamless academic activities on campus. This paid off as the various university-based staff unions – ASUU, SSANU, NAAT and NASU were on the same page with the Management even as the University also enjoyed cordial relationship with its host community which engendered peace and security for staff and students within and outside the campus.

More importantly, the University through some of its departments and directorates engaged in community service activities in some villages within and outside its host community. The Centre for Entrepreneurship and Employability (CEE) trained 50 wives of military personnel of Nkwagu cantonment on production of household materials. The Centre for Adaptive Research and Fabrication carried out STEM Awareness Campaign at Community Girls’ Secondary School, Ohankwu. In addition, the Centre for Climate Change and Development (CCCD) trained some secondary school teachers and students in Ebonyi State on climate issues.

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Newly completed Library complex
Apart from the obvious achievements made in the core mandates of teaching, research and community service, the University in the last one year also made some progress in the area of infrastructural development. The new university library which was at foundation level when the Vice-Chancellor took over the reins of power has been completed. The University liaison office at Abuja was renovated and made functional while the Clinical students’ hostel at the Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki is nearing completion. Two intra campus roads – leading to College of Medical Sciences and Faculty of Law are presently being asphalted. When completed, incidence of dust and mud which are common sights on the roads during dry and rainy seasons will be a thing of the past. Many hand-driven water boreholes were also sunk at strategic places within the University to provide alternative sources of water to students. More so, in order to provide banking facilities/services to staff and students and members of the University’s host community, the University in conjunction with Zenith Bank Plc established Agency bank. Before then, there was no functional bank in the University and its host community.

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Ongoing construction of the two intra campus roads leading to the College of Medical Sciences and Faculty of Law
In concluding, leadership is not a position one occupies or the seat one sits. It is rather the capacity to engineer progress. In the last one year, Prof. Elom has engineered progress in many fronts, though a lot still need to be done. Nevertheless, with his guiding principle of doing everything as “…unto the Lord”, we can make bold to say that Project AE-FUNAI is on the right track to greater heights.

Elom Iyke Ubochi, MinstPM

Head, Public Relations & Information/University PRO

AE-FUNAI