News

Gregory University Uturu (GUU) has received accolades for consistently meeting all the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) requirements, ensuring the smooth progression of the programme.

The Industrial Training Fund (ITF) Area Manager, Aba, Nwigboji Nwafagu, while applauding GUU, stated that this commitment to excellence should be maintained and never let down. Mr. Nwafagu made this statement during a visit to the institution for the Students’ Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) orientation exercise on 20th February, 2025.

The Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Regina Ogali, on behalf of the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Cele Njoku, welcomed the Area Manager and his team, which included the Training Development Officer, Nse Brown; SIWES Accountant, Igbokwe Joseph; and SIWES Officer, Uchendu Prince. She mentioned that this orientation exercise is crucial for the scholars and serves as an addition to their IT preparations for improved success.

In her remarks, the Students’ Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) Director, Dr. Chigoziri Akudo Osuji, extended a warm welcome to the ITF officials, lecturers, scholars, and all attendees. She urged the scholars to pay close attention to the lessons, emphasizing the significance of these lessons in preparing them for a successful industrial training experience.

In a traditional gesture of hospitality, Mr. Ibe Njoku, a Mass Communication Department lecturer, welcomed the ITF delegation with kola nut, explaining its deep cultural significance in Igbo land as a symbol of respect and unity.

Major highlights of the programme included a detailed reading and explanation of the Code of Conduct for students, SIWES documentation procedures, and financial documentation guidelines.

Scholars were also introduced to the five key stakeholders responsible for SIWES: the Federal Government, the Industrial Training Fund, the National Universities Commission (NUC), the institution, and the students.

They were reminded that industrial training is a critical phase of their education, preparing them for real-world challenges. Therefore, they should maintain good behaviour, dress appropriately, establish useful and cordial relationships, and be punctual at work at all times.

The event recorded strong attendance from scholars and university lecturers, including Dr. Chabalin Elem, who, during his closing remarks, reinforced the significance of the orientation for scholars preparing for their industrial training.

The College of Pharmacy at Gregory University Uturu held a highly impactful workshop and sensitization program for its members of staff on Thursday, 23rd January 2025.

The workshop had as its theme “Dispensing Pharmacy Education in the 21st Century,” was aimed at enhancing the skills, knowledge, and professionalism of both academic and administrative staff.

In his opening remarks, the Dean of the College of Pharmacy, Dr. Sunday Okafor, emphasized the importance of continuous professional development in keeping up with the dynamic trends in pharmaceutical education and practice. He highlighted the university’s commitment to academic excellence and the critical role of well-trained staff in achieving this vision.

The guest speaker, Prof. C.S. Nworu, in his lecture, discussed, among other things, the need for educators to serve as a bridge between knowledge and practice, molding pharmacy students to be ethical, competent, innovative, and effective problem-solvers.

Prof. Nworu encouraged educators to familiarize themselves with 21st-century technological advancements and adopt a research and mentorship mindset to guide students toward personal growth. He also urged regular participation in conferences, workshops, and seminars.

In attendance was the Vice Chancellor of the university, Prof. C.U. Njoku, who was represented by the DVC Administration, Prof. Uwaoma Uche; the DVC Academic, Prof. Regina Ogali; and other senior university officials, whose presence underscored the institution’s strong support.

Constitutional lawyer and human rights advocate, Professor Mike Ozekhome, SAN, has emphasized that the Judiciary’s function in resolving electoral disputes is to safeguard the integrity, fairness, and legality of electoral processes by interpreting and applying electoral laws to address conflicts that arise during or after elections.

Prof. Ozekhome stated this during the 9th Convocation Ceremony Lecture of Gregory University Uturu, where he delivered a lecture titled “The Judiciary as the Final Arbiter of Electoral Outcomes: Aberrations and Judgements Without Justice.”

He further explained that this crucial function not only upholds the rule of law but also reinforces public confidence in the democratic process, offering a sense of order and justice when tensions are high.

Prof. Ozekhome pointed out that the exploitation of procedural rules has placed an additional burden on the judicial system. In this regard, he argued, “The quality of testimony tendered by witnesses is more important than the number of witnesses in an election matter, as a large number of witnesses may not necessarily guarantee victory for a party in election matters.”

He therefore called for further amendments to the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the 2022 Electoral Act to ensure that election petitions are concluded before the inauguration of elected officials, as was done during the 1979 elections in the Second Republic. “In other words, no winner of an election petition should be sworn in until the disposal of a petition challenging his or her election,” Ozekhome said.

The Scholars Work Experience Programme (SWEP) for the 2023/2024 academic year concluded in grand style as participating scholars from various departments showcased their skills and made beautiful presentations.

It was a moment of fulfillment and delight as members of the University gathered at the Goodluck Jonathan Auditorium to celebrate this momentous occasion, which is unique to our University community and aligns with our core values.

In her remarks, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Cele Njoku represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor of Administration, Prof. Uwaoma Uche, commended the staff and scholars for a job well done. She emphasized that the skills learnt should be regularly applied to maximize their impact within and beyond the school community.

The University Librarian in his speech congratulated all participants of the programme, and recommended that they should strive to be more innovative and consistently put in the right amount of work needed in order to achieve greater results.

Earlier, in her address, the Students Work Industrial Experience Scheme (SIWES) Director, Dr. Chigoziri Akudo highlighted the programme’s commitment to consistently equip scholars with relevant practical skills for their respective industries.

She particularly thanked everyone, specifically the school management, for their contributions to the overall success of this year’s programme and expressed excitement about the scholars’ rich entrepreneurial skills, which will position them well in the labour market.

Recall that on the 10th day of September, members of the  management staff, lecturers, and scholars gathered at Izima Chambers of Gregory University Uturu for the SWEP opening ceremony, where Dr. Akudo stressed the need for scholars to take the programme seriously as it is a great opportunity to learn beyond theories.

Highlights of the event included the presentation of the SIWES Director Award to the best male and female SWEP participants, the distribution of certificates to all participants, and the announcement of the overall winners of this year’s programme, with Chemical Engineering and Human Anatomy taking third and second place, while Microbiology emerged as the overall winner with the first prize.

The five-week, practically oriented programme included scholars from various departments, including, but not limited to, Architecture, Mass Communication, Anatomy, Human Physiology, Radiography, Engineering, Computer Science, Biochemistry, and Microbiology.

I, Prof Gregory Ibe, Founder of Gregory University Uturu, Innov8 Hub Abuja and Managing Director of Africa’s foremost manufacturer of science equipment Skill ‘G’ Ltd, join millions of people around the world to celebrate the selfless contributions of teachers on the commemoration of the 2024 World Teachers Day.

As an educator and founder of an institution of learning, I understand the vital role teachers play in shaping the minds of future generations. Their dedication, hard work, and commitment to imparting knowledge are the backbone of our education system.

On this occasion, I want to express my heartfelt appreciation and solidarity with my fellow teachers, who tirelessly inspire and educate our students. Your efforts are truly making a difference in the lives of countless individuals and communities.

As we commemorate World Teachers Day, I urge governments, policymakers, and stakeholders to recognize the importance of supporting and empowering teachers, by creating the enabling environment for effective execution of their vital social functions. They deserve our collective gratitude, respect, and investment in their professional development.

At Gregory University Uturu, we are committed to upholding the highest standards of education and fostering a supportive environment for our teachers to thrive. We believe that by working together, we can create a brighter future for all.

Happy World Teachers Day to all dedicated teachers in Abia State, Nigeria and the world at large!
Your impact is immeasurable, and we celebrate you today and every day.

Prof Gregory Ibe,PhD,OFR(Enyi Abia)
Founder and Proprietor,
Gregory University Uturu

The Primary Medical Qualification (PMQ) awarded by the Gregory University Uturu College of Medicine and Health Sciences now meets the General Medical Council’s (GMC) criteria for an acceptable overseas qualification.

This development was confirmed following a thorough assessment of evidence by the GMC, UK, regarding the acceptability of the PMQ awarded by our institution.

According to the General Medical Council (GMC), UK: “We have completed our assessment, and I am pleased to inform you that the PMQ awarded by your institution currently meets the GMC’s criteria for an acceptable overseas qualification.”

The GMC added: “This means that any doctor awarded a Primary Medical Qualification from Gregory University Uturu will be able to apply to sit the Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) Test and for GMC registration without having their qualification individually assessed.”

The Provost of Gregory University Uturu College of Medicine, Prof. S.A.U Offiah therefore states that this is an addition to the earlier privilege granted by Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates ECFMG (US and Canada) to write United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE)

He expressed his gratitude to the founder, Professor Gregory Ibe, the university administration, and the college staff for their support and dedication.

Congratulations to Gregory University Uturu for achieving yet another milestone.

Ekemini Udo
P.R.O.