The University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) announced on Tuesday that it is spending a substantial N200 million monthly to power its operations across its three campuses in Nsukka, Enugu, and Ituku-Ozalla.

Acting Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Oguejiofor Ujam, who stated this during a press briefing to mark its 54th convocation ceremony, lamented that the escalating electricity costs had increased the institution’s financial burden and significantly impacted its operational capacity and resource allocation.

He, however, stated that his administration had embarked on a comprehensive strategy to mitigate electricity costs and transition towards more sustainable energy sources.

“We are rigorously implementing energy-saving measures across all campuses, optimising our energy consumption patterns, and promoting energy-efficient practices among staff and students,” he said.

He added that the University was actively exploring and investing in alternative energy solutions, including solar and hybrid systems, stressing that he recently signed a memorandum of understanding with the Rural Electrification Agency for the provision of 10 megawatts of electricity in the university.

“These initiatives are not merely about cost reduction; they are about ensuring a stable and uninterrupted power supply, which is fundamental to supporting our academic, research, and administrative functions. Our commitment to energy transition reflects our dedication to environmental sustainability and fiscal responsibility, paving the way for a more resilient and self-sufficient University,” he said.

Ujam added that recognising the role Information Communications Technology (ICT) plays in any major institution of learning, the University recently received an ICT Development Grant of USD 3 million from the French Development Agency, stressing that it was a boost to the infrastructural upgrade of the school.

Given a statistics of graduates for the convocation ceremony, he stated that 167 students made first class; 3485 made second class (upper division); 5217 made second class (lower division), while 739 made third class and 33 pass.

The acting vice chancellor added that 616 would be decorated with award of doctorate degrees, while 1101 would be awarded a Master of Science, 133 would be awarded a PGD, and 42 would be awarded a Diploma.