Representatives from the Society for Postgraduate Research and Development (SPORED) and the Institute of Chartered Economists of Nigeria (ICEN) paid a courtesy visit to the management of Gregory University, Uturu. This visit is ahead of their 4th International Conference, themed; “A New Africa: Research, Development and Innovation in the Modern Era” which will be hosted in collaboration with the University.
During the visit, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Augustine Uwakwe, along with other principal officers of the university, welcomed the representatives and expressed appreciation for selecting the institution as the venue for the conference.
The university management also assured the visitors of its commitment, support and collaboration towards the success of the event.
On Saturday, 17th February 2024, Gregory University, Uturu, Abia State, marked its 12th Matriculation Ceremony, welcoming 304 scholars across the 13 colleges into its undergraduate program and 16 postgraduate scholars.
Speaking at the event, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Augustine Uwakwe, emphasized the university’s commitment to excellence in character and unrivalled learning. He urged the newly admitted scholars to remain focused and abide by the guiding principles upon which the institution is founded, emphasizing the importance of active participation in their lectures, academic exercises and extracurricular activities while eschewing vices such as cultism, gambling, drugs and substance abuse.
Prof. Uwakwe highlighted the university’s dedication to continued growth and development and expressed openness to symbiotic partnership and collaboration.
“Gregory University Uturu is on a sustained trajectory of giant strides, and our current state remains a glimpse to the glorious future which we are building at this university, even as we remain open to symbiotic partnerships of any proportion,” he said.
He extended gratitude to parents and guardians for their support in guiding their children and wards towards a tertiary education ambition at the university.
Following the matriculation pledge, the scholars were formally admitted to the membership of Gregory University, Uturu, Abia State, and enjoined to live up to the highest standards expected of them.
The event, graced by principal officers of the university, members of staff, scholars, parents, and well-wishers, marked another milestone in the institution’s journey towards academic excellence and holistic development.
In a proactive move towards enhancing security measures and fostering collaboration, a delegation from the University paid a courtesy visit to the Commissioner of Police, Abia State Command, CP-Kenechukwu Onwuemelie.
The university delegation, consisting of key management members included Hon. Boniface Ikwuagwu, representing the founder, Prof. Gregory Ibe; Chief Eze Ibeajah, Member of the University Council; Prof. Augustine Uwakwe, Vice-Chancellor; Prof. Evaristus Anyaehie, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Administration; Prof. Uwaoma Uche, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic; Mr. Vincent Maliki, Registrar; Hon. Christian Ofondu;Ms. Ebubechi Iwuh(Ag. PRO); and Rev. Canon Samuel Ekechukwu.
The delegation was warmly received by the Commissioner of Police, Abia State Command, CP-Kenechukwu Onwuemelie, alongside his deputies, DC Chris Okoro Deputy Commissioner, Operations) and DC Samuel Onoja(Deputy Commissioner of Administration).
During the interaction, the Vice-Chancellor commended the proactive steps taken by the commissioner of police in ensuring security within the state. He expressed the university’s readiness to collaborate with the police command to enhance security, particularly within the university’s environment.
In his response, the commissioner attributed the visible strides in security to the divine intervention of God and acknowledged the support received from the Governor of Abia State, His Excellency, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti.
He highlighted the governor’s commitment to prioritizing security, and ensuring the welfare of the police command, and thanked him for the ongoing support. The Commissioner also assured the university delegation of continued support from the police command in maintaining a secure environment.
Also present at the meeting was the Police Public Relations Officer, Asp. Maureen Chioma Chinaka, and her deputy. Consequently, the visit ended with a vote of thanks from the Deputy Commissioner and administration, wishing the delegation a safe journey back to their destination.
As the 33rd Commissioner of Police, Abia State Command, CP-Kenechukwu Onwuemelie, continues to lead efforts to strengthen security, and this collaborative initiative with the University marks a significant step towards ensuring a safer community and learning environment.
In a historic moment that marked a significant milestone, Gregory University, Uturu hosted the first induction ceremony of medical doctors, which took place on Tuesday, December 5th, 2023.
The ceremony witnessed the presence of esteemed dignitaries including the Executive Governor of Abia State, His Excellency, Dr. Chioma Alex Otti, represented by the SSG, Prof. Kenneth Kalu, and the Registrar of the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria, Dr. T.A.B Sanusi.
Also present were principal officers of the university, the provost of the College of Medicine, the deputy provost, and other esteemed faculty members and staff of the university.
Declaring the event open, the chairman of the occasion, Dr. Chukwuemeka Njionye Oluoha welcomed all guests, emphasizing the event as evidence of the hard work and dedicated efforts invested in shaping young minds.
The Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Augustine Uwakwe, represented by Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic, Prof. Uwaoma Kalu Uche, expressed gratitude to God for the realization of this dream and acknowledged the support and collaborative efforts of the MDCN, Federal Ministry of Health, Abia State government, and the Federal Medical Centre. He affirmed that the induction of the pioneer medical scholars solidifies the university’s commitment to its mission and vision. He congratulated the scholars, urging them to adhere to MDCN ethical standards while upholding the university’s esteemed principles.
Representing the State Governor, the SSG Prof. Kenneth Kalu, commended the university’s achievement and encouraged the inductees to uphold professional ethics. He appreciated the university’s faculty and staff and advised the new doctors to embrace self-motivation as a guiding principle.
SSG Prof. Kenneth Kalu, representing the State Governor, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti
In her address, the Deputy Provost of the College, Prof. Ijeoma Nduka, expressed gratitude for the collective efforts that led to this success, acknowledging that the eight-year journey wasn’t without challenges but eventually rewarding. She charged the newly inducted doctors to discharge their duties diligently and reminded them of the ethical importance of the profession. Prof. Nduka extended gratitude to the university’s founder, Prof. Gregory Ibe, and the MDCN registrar for their pivotal roles.
Dr. T.A.B Sanusi, the Registrar of the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria, described the induction as a call to service, highlighting the greater responsibility it brings. He admonished parents to grant their children the opportunity to practice their profession and choose their speciality. Consequently, he administered the oath to the inductees, officially welcoming them to the medical profession.
A pivotal aspect of the event included an insightful induction lecture on “Medical Colours and Caps: Celebrating Candid Creative Credible Career Counsel” by Associate Professor Eyinnaya Chikwendu Nduka. The ceremony also featured awards and recognition for outstanding performances, with the award for the Most Outstanding Performance Award presented to Dr. Davies Oluwasijibomi Glory.
The Registrar, Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria, Dr. TAB Sanusi Administering the Oath to the Inductees.
This epoch-making event not only echoes a significant achievement for Gregory University Uturu but also reaffirms its commitment to excellence, and shaping the future of medical professionals.
The Science Educators Association of Nigeria (SEAN) recently hosted its third international conference at Gregory University, Uturu, with the theme “Promoting STEAM Education Through Research and Innovation in the Digital Age. The conference brought together distinguished educators and scholars to explore the latest developments, innovations, and research in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) education.
The event featured an impressive lineup of esteemed speakers, participants, and distinguished figures in academia, including the keynote speaker, Prof. Uche Uwaoma, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Academics. His insightful discourse set the tone for a series of engaging discussions and presentations that followed.
Furthermore, Dr. Evelyn Godwin-Nwakwasi, a prominent lead paper presenter at the event, also shared valuable insights in her presentation, adding to the rich discourse on STEAM education, innovation, and research.
A pivotal moment during the conference was the presentation of the prestigious Fellowship Award to several scholars in the academic field by the national president, Prof. Mariam Zakaria Abakpa. Notably, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Augustine Uwakwe, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Administration, Prof. Evaristus Anyaehie, and the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academics, Prof. Uwaoma Uche, were honored for their exceptional contributions and commitment to education and research.
Other deserving recipients included Dr. Lui Ugwulor, the Head of the Department of Public Health and the Chairman of the local organizing committee for the conference, and Dr. Mrs. Amarachi Azubuike, the Jupeb Director and Head of the Department of Physical and Health Education, who were also acknowledged for their outstanding contributions.
Indeed, this conference is a testament to SEAN’s collaborative effort to drive the evolution of STEAM education, innovation, and research in our contemporary digital world.
A wave of excitement filled the air as the 2023/2024 Orientation Programme kicked off, marking the start of a crucial step in the academic journey for our new scholars. The orientation program commenced with a warm welcome by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Administration, Prof. Evaristus Anyaehie, who represented the Vice-Chancellor. He congratulated the new scholars on their successful transition to the university system and encouraged them to seize the opportunity to shape their future at the institution.
The event continued with the University Registrar, Dr. Chukwuemeka Mpamah, providing insights into the university’s history, mission, vision, and core values, underscoring their significance in the university’s identity. Furthermore, the scholars were acquainted with the university’s anthem, motto, slogan, and logo, with detailed explanations of their meaning and importance. The Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Academics, Prof. Uche Uwaoma, also addressed the scholars, urging them to make the most of their time at the university while extending a warm welcome to them.
In his closing remarks, the Dean of Scholars Affairs assured the students that the university would be their home away from home. He encouraged them to reach out when facing challenges and emphasized the importance of taking the orientation program seriously as the foundation of their journey at the university. The event also featured the presence of the Scholars Union Government President, Awo Austin, who shared valuable insights with the scholars, emphasizing the role of positive associations in pursuing academic excellence.
In a grand recognition of impact and humanitarian excellence, the Institute For Humanitarian Studies and Social Development (IHSD) bestowed the prestigious title of Distinguished Fellows on the Founder and Proprietor of the University, Prof. Gregory Ibe, and the University’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Augustine Uwakwe.
Presiding over the event, Dr. Francis Orija, the registrar of the institute, stated that although the awards ceremony itself took place in Abuja, the nation’s capital, the institute deemed it essential to formally recognize and confer these distinguished fellowships.
He highlighted that these awards were a reflection of the exceptional leadership qualities, unwavering character, and outstanding contributions that both Prof. Gregory Ibe and Prof. Augustine Uwakwe have made to society.
He acknowledged the numerous philanthropic activities and social development initiatives undertaken by Prof. Gregory Ibe, particularly his utilization of education and the academic environment as instruments for driving and promoting development.
“Prof. Ibe’s tireless efforts have cast the southeastern region in a favourable and positive light”, He said.
Dr. Orija also extolled the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Augustine Uwakwe, for his embodiment of values such as simplicity and humility, characteristics deeply associated with humanitarians. He highlighted the Vice-Chancellor’s unwavering support and significant contributions to the university’s growth, expansion, and success, which have made him a beacon of credible leadership.
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Augustine Uwakwe, had the distinct honour of accepting the Distinguished Fellowship award on behalf of Prof. Gregory Ibe, further acknowledging his own significant contributions. During his acceptance speech, he expressed profound gratitude and overwhelming appreciation to IHSD for recognizing the university’s unwavering commitment to human development and corporate social responsibility.
He specifically highlighted the numerous scholarships and educational opportunities made available through the founder’s generosity. Similarly, he expressed the university’s readiness and willingness to partner with the institute in promoting impact and social development.
The Deputy Vice-Chancellor, administration, Prof. Evaristus Anyaehie, representing the university’s administration, extended a heartfelt vote of thanks to IHSD for its support and recognition of the university’s continuous efforts to society. He underscored the shared dedication to making a lasting impact in human development, a principle deeply ingrained in the values of both the Founder and the Vice-chancellor
The event was also graced by the distinguished presence of various principal officers of the University.
Today, a team from the National Universities Commission (NUC) paid a visit to the university, to conduct an accreditation assessment of the Department of Geology. The team which comprised three members, including Prof. A. N Amadi, Prof. N.G Goki, and Fatima Yaliya Akurki (NUC. REP), was warmly received by the Principal Officers of the University, led by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academics, Prof. Uwaoma Uche, alongside the Head of the Department, Prof. N.E. Ekeocha.
In his remark, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor reaffirmed the University’s commitment to providing quality education that meets the needs of its students and prepares them for professional development. He also highlighted the University’s efforts in maintaining high standards and ensuring that its programs are in line with global best practices.
He wished the team a successful outing and assured them of the University’s support as they carried out their duties.
The Vice Chancellor, Gregory University Uturu has called on the scholars who participated in the 2023 Students Work Experience Program (SWEP) to endeavour to practice all they have learned during the course of the program. He made this call during the closing ceremony of the programme held at Justice Izima Chamber, Gregory University Uturu. The SWEP programme is a full time hands-on-lab programme organized for scholars who have concluded their 200L and are about to enter 300L. This is meant to strengthen their knowledge in their different course of study.
According to Prof Uwakwe, “the program is equipped to inculcate and improve the students performance which will in turn help them to perform excellently during their six months (Industrial training). I therefore congratulate this set of scholars for their immense work and participation, you are the best,” he added.
Further, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academics) Prof Uwaoma Uche in his speech addressed the scholars to continue to strive hard to achieve the best they can so as to produce the best results. According to him, “I enjoined you to always respect dignitaries, accord them the respect they deserve by doing that which is expected of you and continue to strive higher till you get to the peak of your study.”
More so, the scholars presented what they produced during the programme wherein an over-all winner was drawn from the department of chemical engineering, a first runner up taking from the department of Hotel Management and Tourism and the second runner-up taken from the department of Mass Communication. An award was presented to the best SWEP scholar of the year and certificates given to all participated scholars by Dr E. U. Godwin Nwakwasi.
Concluding, the SWEP Director, Dr Chigoziri Akudo Osuji in her closing remarks thanked the management for given the scholars the opportunity to participate in the programme, she expressed her profound gratitude to the Founder and Proprietor, Prof. Gregory Ikechukwu Ibe and urge him to continue creating opportunities for the scholars to leverage on. She prayed that the good Lord will grant everyone journey mercies back to their various destinations.
