Universities operating under despondent condition 

Universities in Nigeria are said to be operating under despondent conditions, as a result of low funding, untimely release of approved statutory allocation, strikes, last COVID-19 pandemic, increasing overheads, impact of fuel subsidy removal, among others.

The sixth Vice Chancellor of the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike (MOUAU), Abia State, Prof. Maduebibisi Ofo Iwe, gave this indication, yesterday while addressing a press briefing as part of activities to mark the institution’s 30th anniversary, founders’ day, including the maiden lecture series of Dr Michael Okpara, who was the premier of the defunct Eastern Region.

Activities will feature exhibitions, alumni, students and awards. Others are goodwill messages and keynote lecture to be delivered, on Thursday 31st August, by the Director General of the World Trade Organisation, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, and Anambra State Governor and former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo.

Soludo’s lecture would have the theme, ‘Leadership, Agriculture and Entrepreneurship: The Dr. Michael Okpara Model for National Growth and Identity.’ According to the Vice Chancellor, the anniversary is not just a celebration of time past, but a testament to the unwavering commitment of all stakeholders, government, faculty, staff, students, alumni and partners, who have contributed to the growth and development of the university.

He said: “Our University has evolved into a hub of knowledge creation, fostering cutting-edge research across various disciplines and producing graduates who make meaningful contributions to society.”