TWO WEEKS RETROSPECT IN THE UNIVERSITY OF PORT HARCOURT

The following events took place in the University from Monday 20th to Friday 31st October, 2025.

1. The Arm of Hope Foundation led by her founder and President, Apostle Eugene Ogu paid a thank you visit to the University Management in recognition of our contributions to the well-being of the indigent students through the various scholarship schemes we have attracted to the University.
2. It was another moment of academic display of excellence as Prof. Ayoade Oludayo of the Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering delivered the 204th Inaugural Lecture Series of the University.
3. We organized a one-day workshop for Heads of Department, Course Advisers, and Examination Officers as part of our human capacity development initiative. The program was designed to enhance work efficiency, recognizing the vital roles these categories of staff play in shaping the academic journey and overall success of our students.
4. We conducted the 55th Induction Ceremony of newly qualified Medical Doctors as administered by the Registrar, Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria, Prof. Fatima Kyari, ably represented by Dr. Tijani. By the oath, the newly qualified medical doctors were commissioned to rise above mediocrity and build systems that heal.
5. In response to the alarming rise in illicit drug use and its adverse impact on society, especially among the youth, the University of Port Harcourt, in collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force, NDLEA, and PARK, organized an advocacy and sensitization programme on campus. The event aimed to raise awareness about the devastating consequences of drug abuse and promote a drug-free society.
6. The Management of the University welcomed the Speaker, African Youth Development Parliament (AYDP), Mr. Wealth Akerele and some members of the parliament from across the continent. The AYDP being the Youth Wing of the African Union presented us with an Award of recognition for our modest contributions to the advancement of Education frontiers.
7. The University of Port Harcourt through the Institute of Niger Delta Studies entered into a collaboration with the Nigeria Navy Intelligence School to provide expertise and training to the Institute. We commended the Commandant, Commodore B. M. Sule and the Director of the Niger Delta Studies for facilitating the partnership.
8. As one of Africa’s policy advocacy and advancement centres, the University of Port Harcourt Centre for Politics hosted its first International Conference on Advancing Politics and Governance for Sustainable Development. Scholars, key political actors and policy analysts from across Nigeria, South Africa, Ghana, Australia, United Kingdom gathered at the University to interrogate contemporary issues on politics and governance. The Conference attracted the Executive Governor of Abia State, His Excellency Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, the Speaker, Rivers State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Martin Chike Amawhule and other stakeholders who provided practical knowledge to politics and governance.
9. In furtherance to the approval by the Federal Government and the University Governing Council granting the University the permission to employ new members of staff, we invited qualified applicants to a screening exercise in readiness for the oral interview and employment in strict compliance with the approved quota.
10. We participated in the week-long celebration of the Graduate Students Association which commenced with a fitness and road walk and a one-day capacity building training on research, football competition amongst others. The research training for graduate students had the Hon. Enemi Alabo George, a member of Rivers State House of Assembly as keynote speaker and renowned Nigerian actress, Hilda Dokubo as one of the panelists. We were also presented with an Award by the Association.
11. Similarly, we received an Award from the National Association of Educational Management and Planning Students of the University in appreciation of our continued support to the Association.
12. We took a moment out of our very busy schedule to celebrate the promotion of the two pilot drivers attached to Vice-Chancellor. Mr. Dapper and Mr. Everest as they earned promotion to their next ranks. These moments are so celebrated because staff welfare stands at the heart of this administration.
13. We received some chiefs and elders from the Ibaa Community, one of the notable communities in Emohua Local Government Area to inform us of the decision of the Council of Chiefs to confer on us a chieftaincy title in recognition of our noble contributions to humanity.
14. As the College of Health Sciences conducted the Part I MBBS examination, we stopped by to supervise the conduct of the examination. We commended both the staff and students for their orderly conduct and dedication throughout the examination.
15. The University of Port Harcourt played host to the Federal Government IDEAS-TVET 2 programme under the Renewed Hope initiative of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The initiative which is also supported by the World Bank aims to build capacity to bridge skills gap and tackle unemployment.
16. We felicitated with the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH) on the commemorate of her forty-five years of health education, research, and service to humanity and reaffirmed our readiness for sustainable partnership.
17. We attended the solo art exhibition by Dr. Osikhiana Onekpe, aptly titled “Silent Dialogue of Colors and Faces,” and commended him for showcasing exceptional creativity and artistic expression through his work.
18. The Committee of Provost and Deans held a meeting to deliberate on adjustment of academic calendar. After exhaustive deliberation, the Committee approved the calendar which will be made public soon.
19. We participated in the induction of our graduating students from the Department of History and Diplomatic Studies, Faculty of Humanities into the Historical Society of Nigeria and charged them to remain ethical in their practice for the advancement of knowledge and betterment of our nation and humanity.
20. We formally declared the one-day mandatory workshop for Occupational Health and Safety postgraduate, M.Sc. and Doctoral students officially open. While commending the Director of the Centre, Prof. John Ugbebor and the organizing committee for their efforts in putting together this important program, we encouraged all participants to engage actively, ask questions, and make the most of this learning opportunity.We appreciate the roles you all played at your various designated units during the weeks 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.