THIS WEEK IN RETROSPECT IN THE UNIVERSITY OF PORT HARCOURT

The following events took place in the University from Monday 2nd – Friday 6th March, 2026

1. We honored an invitation to attend the Annual Praise and Thanksgiving Service from one of our strategic partners, Dr. Seinye O. B. Lulu-Briggs, Chairman/CEO of the O. B. Lulu-Briggs Foundation. At the event, Dr. Seinye O. B. Lulu-Briggs highlighted some of the major milestones achieved by the organization, attributing these successes to God’s grace and guidance. The O. B. Lulu-Briggs Foundation and Dr. Seinye O. B. Lulu-Briggs have contributed significantly to the growth and development of the University of Port Harcourt.
2. We also joined the Bursary Department, University of Port Harcourt for their Thanksgiving Service at Our Saviour Chapel, celebrating the blessings and achievements of the department over the past year, and recommitting the new year to God in prayers.
3. The University of Port Harcourt Centre for Peace and Security Studies, in collaboration with the Bonn Centre for Dependency and Slavery Studies, organized a hybrid research training workshop aimed at equipping postgraduate students with the necessary methodologies for conducting research in conflict studies. We commend the Centre Director, Prof. Chioma Daisy Onyige, Dr. Benjamin from University of Bonn, the keynote speaker Prof. Martin Ifeanacho, as well as other invited speakers for their dedication and commitment to advancing the objectives and academic growth of the Centre
4. We are pleased to announce that an increasing number of staff and students are taking the opportunity to learn the Chinese language. This initiative will expose them to the numerous opportunities available through the “Road to China” program, enhancing their global engagement and cultural competence.
5. The Career Services Intervention Centre, University of Port Harcourt hosted the 2026 Careers Fair Day to enhance the employability of our students and support them in pursuing their chosen career paths. The event provided valuable opportunities for students to engage with industry professionals, explore career options, and gain insights into the skills and experiences required for success in their fields.
6. We participated in the Inter-House Sports competitions of both the University of Port Harcourt Demonstration Secondary School and the University of Port Harcourt Demonstration Primary School, and were thrilled by the skillful performances of our children. We commend the management, teachers, and parents for creating an enabling environment that contributed to the success of these events
7. One of the University’s distinguished scholars has concluded his service with meritorious distinction. The 44th Valedictorian, Prof. Lucky Akaruese of the Department of Philosophy, delivered a compelling lecture titled “The Philosopher and the Social Space: A Panorama from Socrates to Akaruese”. In his address, he emphasized that philosophy has never been neutral; rather, it has always been engaged in struggles—against complacency, injustice, and silence—highlighting the enduring role of philosophers in shaping society. We wish him happy retirement in good health
8. The University of Port Harcourt Senate, at its emergency meeting held on Wednesday, 4th March 2025, at the CBN Centre of Excellence Auditorium, elected Profs. Tobinson Briggs and Chinedu Ogbuji to represent the interests of the University Senate on the Joint Selection Board of Council and Senate. Additionally, Profs. Faith Aminikpo and Chidiebere Ugwu were appointed to serve on the Search Team for the selection of a substantive Vice-Chancellor.
9. In continuation of this process, the University of Port Harcourt Congregation has elected Prof. Hope Kagbo and Mrs. Otami Akubom as its representatives on the Search Team for the appointment of a substantive Vice-Chancellor
10. In celebration of International Women’s Day, the University of Port Harcourt Women Association (UPWA) marked the occasion with a refreshing outing at the Jolie Rose Hotel. In line with the theme of this year’s celebration, “Give to Gain”, participants engaged in a gift exchange session, fostering camaraderie and appreciation among members. We commend the President of UPWA, Prof. Udeme O. Georgewill and her team for organizing a well-planned and memorable event
11. We attended the thesis defense for the Department of Pharmacology, University of Port Harcourt, where doctoral students presented and defended their respective research work, demonstrating rigorous scholarship and contributing to the advancement of knowledge in their field
12. We received top management staff from Access Bank on a courtesy visit. The bank commended the peaceful and conducive environment of the University of Port Harcourt, noting that it has facilitated the smooth operation of its services on campus. In response, we assured them of our continued commitment to fostering a harmonious environment that supports seamless financial transactions for both staff and students
13. The Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Port Harcourt held its 14th Induction and Oath-Taking Ceremony, marking a significant milestone as new pharmacists were formally inducted into the noble profession, celebrating their achievements and commitment to excellence in pharmaceutical practice. The University of Port Harcourt continues to shine, fulfilling its mandate of enlightenment and promoting self-reliance among its students and graduates.
14. The M.Sc. students of the Counselling and Human Development Centre, University of Port Harcourt presented us with an Award of Excellence in recognition of our visionary and student-friendly leadership, acknowledging our commitment to creating a supportive and empowering environment for students.
15. We received state-of-the-art laboratory equipment to enhance teaching and research in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering,.The equipment—including a Hydrocarbon Spectrometer, Atomic Absorption Spectrometer, and Flame Photometer, etc were graciously donated by the Federal Government of Nigeria through the Federal Ministry of Regional Development. We once again convey our deep appreciation to the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for this thoughtful intervention. We also urge the department to ensure the effective utilization and proper maintenance of the donated equipment in order to maximize its benefits for teaching, learning, and research
16. We received the Digital Transformation and Leadership Award from Cisco in recognition of our commitment to digital transformation, groundbreaking research, and inspiring innovative solutions that advance academic excellence. This recognition underscores the growing impact of the University of Port Harcourt in leveraging technology to enhance teaching, learning, and research

We appreciate the roles you all played at your designated units during the week under review.

Do have a great weekend.

Prof. Owunari A. Georgewill, FRSB, FIIA, FWASOT, FCSI, FFs, FWASOP, FECRMI, FIARSA, FIHSC , DFCIHTMA
Vice-Chancellor, University of Port Harcourt