By Christian ABURIME
Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU) celebrated its 11th to 15th combined convocation ceremonies, marking a significant milestone in the university’s history.
The event, held at the university campus, Igbariam, gathered dignitaries, faculty, students, and alumni to honour the achievements of graduates and reflect on the institution’s strides in recent years.
In his address, Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, reflected on the transformation of COOU since his administration took office. “The university is far different from what it used to be since my last time here,” he stated, reinforcing the need for partnerships with the private sector and local communities to expedite development.
The Governor stated that government alone cannot fast track the speed of development without partnerships with the private sector and communities. He celebrated the former Governor, Dr. Chinwoke Mbadinuju, who founded the University, as well as his predecessors and others who made various contributions to the university.
“Late Dr. Mbadinuju is not celebrated enough here. We must find something significant to immortalize him.
“I celebrate all men of goodwill who love and believe in education as the bridge to the future,” Governor Soludo further added
Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Kate Omenugha highlighted the university’s stable academic calendar, which has remained uninterrupted for several years. “We are proud to combine five years of academic success into this celebration,” Omenugha said. “This stable academic calendar is a legacy we intend to sustain as we move forward.”
Prof. Omenugha expressed gratitude to Governor Chukwuma Soludo for his numerous support to the university community, underscoring openness to partnerships that can enhance educational opportunities. “We appreciate the governor for his unwavering commitment to our institution,” she noted.
Also addressing the audience, Pro-Chancellor of COOU, Prof. Chidi Odinkalu emphasized the importance of communal engagement and forward-thinking in education. “We have celebrated our heritage this week, and we intend to forge a vibrant future for this university,” he said, identifying a university community as an environment where disagreement can occur in a spirit of cordiality. “I encourage everyone to join in and actively participate in this journey.”
The Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ngozi Chuma-Udeh commended the governor’s administration for prioritizing education as a foundation for progress. “Governor Soludo’s government remains unwavering in its mission to elevate education in our state,” she affirmed.
A highlight of the event was the conferment of an honorary doctorate degree in food science and nutrition to Mrs. Nonye Soludo, the governor’s wife, in recognition of her outstanding contributions to the field, a field she is passionately dedicated to, especially with her “Healthy living with Nonye Soludo”
In her remarks, the Governor’s wife thanked the institution for the award and also expressed her profound gratitude to all for their support
The ceremony was well-attended, with notable figures such as Deputy Governor Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim, Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Somtochukwu Udeze, Hosue of Rep member representing Ihiala, Dr Paschal Agbodike, traditional rulers, and other dignitaries.
