The Rivers State Government has reiterated its unwavering dedication to the advancement of quality education and human capital development as the cornerstone of its developmental agenda.
Sir Siminalayi Fubara, Governor of Rivers State, expressed this commitment during the 44th Convocation Ceremony of the Ignatius Ajuru University of Education (IAUE), held today at the institution’s Rumuolumeni campus in Port Harcourt.
Represented by the Deputy Governor, Professor Ngozi Nma Odu, the Governor described the convocation themed “The Story of Academic and Administrative Progress: The Case of IAUE”, as a significant milestone. He noted that such ceremonies transcend the mere conferment of degrees, serving instead as vital opportunities for reflection and a renewed pledge to the ideals of leadership, service, and national progress.
The Governor extended his commendations to the Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Okechuku Onuchuku, and the University’s Governing Council for their role in sustaining academic discipline. He specifically lauded the institution’s transformation, noting its reputation as a premier centre for teacher education in Nigeria.
“Education remains the bedrock of sustainable development and societal transformation,” the Governor stated. He further assured the academic community that his administration remains steadfast in implementing policies that enhance research, innovation, and the general welfare of both staff and students.
In his address, the Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Okechuku Onuchuku, expressed profound gratitude to the State Government for its consistent support, particularly regarding staff recruitment and the funding of accreditation exercises.
Professor Onuchuku provided an encouraging update on the university’s academic standing, revealing that 53 out of 79 undergraduate programmes have attained full accreditation from the National Universities Commission (NUC), with remaining courses having undergone the requisite approvals and verifications. He also acknowledged the contributions of the immediate past Governor, Nyesom Wike, alongside the incumbent administration, for their combined efforts in the university’s growth.
Despite the celebrations, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Dr Chinyere Igwe, highlighted the pressing challenges facing the institution. He identified several critical areas requiring urgent attention, including: Inadequate Funding: The need for increased budgetary allocation to meet rising operational costs. Infrastructure: The necessity of rehabilitating ageing structures and expanding ICT and laboratory facilities. Human Resources: Addressing existing staff shortages to maintain academic standards.
Dr Igwe noted that while the management has introduced reforms such as curriculum modernisation and expanded online learning, sustained growth would require a collaborative effort involving the government, corporate organisations, alumni, and international development partners.
The 44th Convocation saw a significant cohort of scholars entering the professional world, with statistics released during the ceremony confirming that a total of 3,510 students graduated with first degrees, while a further 1,815 individuals earned postgraduate degrees.
Governor Fubara concluded the proceedings by urging the graduands to act as innovators and responsible citizens, reminding them that their certificates are symbols of hard work and determination intended to facilitate their competition on a global stage.
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