By Ikenna Nwokedi
The Department of Chemical Engineering, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka on Tuesday, 7th May 2024 honoured her past HODs in a special appreciation and get-together event held at the New building of the Faculty of Engineering.
In his address, the Head Department of Chemical Engineering, Engr. Dr. Chukwunonso Okoye stated that the day was set aside to celebrate the unwavering labour, selfless service, dedicated commitment and visionary leadership of the past Heads of Departments.
Dr. Okoye informed that the story of the phenomenal successes recorded by the department cannot be completely told without remembering the sacrifices of the great men and woman who made the department grew in leaps and bounds in all facets such as academics, infrastructure and equipment. The HOD thanked the planning committee for making the day a reality.
In his keynote address centered on Principles of Leadership, the immediate past Dean of the Faculty, Prof. Joseph Nwabanne defined leadership as an act of getting things done through people which can only happen through getting people together. Prof. Nwabanne outlined the attributes of leadership highlighting that the most valuable gift a leader can give is to be an example.
The scholar called on staff of the department to continuously support the present administration in order to sustain the tempo of development and positive attributes that the Department is known right from her inception.
On his part, the Dean of the Faculty, Prof. Solomon Nwigbo expressed his delight with the landmark achievements of the department which he described as enviable. He disclosed that Chemical Engineering stands out in the Faculty in all ramifications while admonishing the young scholars of the Department to borrow a leaf from her past leaders in ensuring that the department grow from strength to strengthen.
Re-echoing the views of Prof. Nwabanne, the pioneer HOD, Prof. O.D. Onukwuli said he is happy that the Department has grown from strength to strength. The scholar emphasized the essence of hardwork which should be the watchword of the teaching staff members through nurturing the young ones, diligence to their duties as well as manuscript publication for their career growth and development. He also advised the members of staff to learn financial literacy which is pivotal for their growth and stability.
In a vote of thanks, Dr. Ifeoma Obiora-Okafo thanked members of staff for their support towards the success of the day. She stated that Chemical Engineering will continue to be a stand out Department in the institution in the area of teaching, research and observing the core values of education.
Highpoints of the occasion was awards of outstanding leadership to past HODs from the inception of the Department from 2001 to 2024, photo sessions and merriment among members of staff.
