Provost of Alvan Ikoku Federal College of Education, Dr. Mrs. Stella Lemchi has called on governments and stakeholders to give priority to efforts that would continually enhance education standards in the country.

She also urged stakeholders to partner and support programmes and policies of the government formulated to guarantee quality and quantitative education as well as boost innovation, research, entrepreneurial skills and technology development in higher institutions.

Dr. Lemchi stated this at the official commissioning of the College’s Health Centre, reconstructed to facilitate easy access to quality and effective medical care service delivery for the College community and others.

The Alvan chief executive, who recently clocked one year in office, described the period as one driven by passion and commitment to achieving excellence in education, innovation and quality service delivery.

She said, “When l assumed the position of Provost in July 2022, I pledged to reposition and re-strengthen our College. Through collaborative efforts, dedication, and resilience, we have embarked on a journey to restore Alvan an the primus inter pares, a Center of Excellence in teaching, learning, research, innovation, entrepreneurship, and community service.

“The past year has been transformative, witnessing remarkable changes and achievements that resonate with our shared commitment to progress.

“We have expanded infrastructure, elevated service delivery, and rejuvenated the spirit of research and development within our academic community.

“We have also improved the morale of staff and students, engaged with the college community and our host communities and restored the confidence of all those connected with the College.”

“The restoration of our university status stands as a testament to our dedication to growth and advancement. This milestone is a collective achievement, made possible by the synergy between our administration and the government of Imo State.” she added.

She listed her achievements in one year of office including reconstruction and renovation of Alvan Health Centre, classroom blocks, flood control within the institution, landscaping and electrification of the College’s Senate Building; accessing of TETFUND library and annual intervention from 2019 to 2023 and purchasing of utility vehicle (SUV) for the College.

Others were, digitalisation and eradication of malfeasance in result collation, computation and transfer; increment in students enrolment into the institution and in the College’s Internal Generated Revenue; speedy mobilisation of graduands for NYSC; creation of Parents-Management Forum; achievement of 100% in accreditation for NCE programmes; clearing of the backlog of promotion arrears from 2018 to date; among others.

Meanwhile, commissioning the College’s new project, Prof. Paulinus Okwelle, Executive Secretary, the National Commission for Colleges of Education, NCCE applauded the AIFCE Provost for her vision and commitment for the College and pledged continued support of the Commission to the institution.