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Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has pledged continuous financial assistance to bolster the capacity of the state-owned university, aiming to elevate its status to one of the country’s premier academic institutions.
Speaking at the 35th convocation ceremony of the university in Port Harcourt, Governor Fubara emphasized the pivotal role of education in fostering a robust and progressive society. He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to channel adequate funding into the university system.
Acknowledging financial constraints as a common challenge in the education sector, Fubara stressed, “Education is the cornerstone of a firm, equitable, and progressive society. Hence, we will continue our efforts to support our university. Our dedication to making the university one of the best in the country is a goal we are embarking upon today.”
Expressing satisfaction with the university’s achievements despite adversities, including securing full accreditation for all its programs, the governor commended the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Nlerum Okogbule, for his result-oriented leadership. Governor Fubara assured the university community of the timely release of approved grants and highlighted education’s prioritization in the 2024 budget, with substantial allocation.
He pledged the fair distribution of available resources to tackle pressing challenges faced by the institution, such as enhancing new campuses’ development, providing stable power supply, constructing student hostels, and installing effective CCTV coverage for campus security.
“Let me commend the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Nlerum Okogbule, for his innovative, result-oriented approach to the administration of this university. Let me promise this university community that the grant approved but not released will be released by Monday, December 18. The essence of our commitment to education development is reflected in our 2024 budget where it received the third highest allocation,” the governor said.
The Vice Chancellor, in his welcome address, announced that 6,326 graduands received various degrees, postgraduate diplomas, Masters, and Doctor of Philosophy, showcasing the university’s commitment to academic excellence. All 24 programs offered by the university obtained full accreditation, with increased admission quotas for vital programs like medicine, surgery, nursing, and midwifery.
The Chancellor of the University, Justice Sidi Muhammad I, emphasized the critical need for adequate funding for tertiary institutions, asserting that enhanced funding would enable these institutions to undertake crucial research to address development needs.
