By Ikenna Nwokedi
The G6 group comprising of the Continuing Education Programme (CEP) Unit, Sandwich Unit, General Studies (GS) Unit, Pre Science Unit, Centre for Disability and Special Needs Research (CENDASNER) and Open and Distant Learning Unit on Friday, 17th of May 2024 at the UNIZIK Business School (UBS) conference room hosted UNIZIK Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Charles Esimone in a special valedictory board meeting.
The valedictory meeting and send forth ceremony was part of activities by the units, directorates and faculties in the University geared towards appreciating the Vice-Chancellor for his visionary leadership within the five years as the numero uno.
In his opening remarks, the Director, Igbo Village and Centre for African Civilization (IVACAC), Very Rev. Fr. Prof. Bonachristus Umeogu stated that the occasion was a remarkable moment to appreciate the Vice-Chancellor for his leadership role and administrative acumen during his five years on the saddle. Umeogu described Prof. Esimone as a gift to the institution who ensured that there was peace and tranquility during his term while praying God for blessings upon him in his future endeavours.
Addressing the various units and directorates, UNIZIK Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Esimone informed that the appointment of the various Directors was based on his judgement as people suitable to serve appraised by their prowess and dexterity. The VC highlighted the various achievements recorded by each units and the steps taken by their various Directors in recording the success and landmark achievements.
Prof. Esimone appreciated them for their immense support thus far even as his administration winds down while urging them to continue with his ‘Project 200’ vision by ensuring that they keep the pace and flame ignited even in the aftermath of his tenure as the VC. The VC also addressed the unpaid staff who are yet to be capture into the IPPIS platform to be patient, resolute and prayerful as very soon their condition will change for the good and their present condition will be a thing of the past.
In his note of appreciation, the Director of the CEP, Prof. Cyprian Okenwa Ogbodo remarked that the occasion was a platform to celebrate a leader per excellence and a worthy administrator for his numerous achievements despite the challenges faced during his time in the mould of the TSA, COVID-19 and ASUU’s industrial actions.
Prof. Ogbodo described the G6 as ‘Esimoneist’ who preach ‘Esimonism’ based on the ‘Project 200’ vision, he prayed for long life and good health for Prof. Esimone wishing him the very best in his future endeavours.
On her part, the Director of Sandwich Programme, Prof. Constance Okoli described Prof. Esimone as a man with a large heart filled with milk of kindness. The scholar averred that under Prof. Esimone’s tenure the Sandwich Unit was taken to an accentuated level despite losing a session to COVID-19, She also thanked the VC for the guidance that led to new ideas and innovations which has changed the outlook of the unit while promising that the pace already set will continue even in the aftermath of his reign as the VC.
Also speaking, the Director of CENDASNER, Prof. Williams Emeka Obiozor appreciated the Vice-Chancellor for his numerous support to the centre and drive towards sourcing for funds. Obiozor disclosed that the centre which started with 11 students from the Law Faculty in September 2019 currently has over 100 students auditing the academic programme, a testimony to the fact that the Centre has achieved tremendous growth. He also informed that the foundation stone laying of their centre has been done so the students can learn a skill and get certified for doing so.
Expressing her views, the Director of Pre-Science Programme, Prof. Edith Nwankwo reflected on the VC’s numerous achievements as having left solid footprints in the sands of time as the unit received unflinching support from his administration. Prof. Nwankwo informed that the unit has grown in leaps and bounds, she thanked the VC for the approvals to their memos which was important in improving both administrative and academic activities at the Unit.
The Director, School of General Studies (GS) Unit, Prof. Charles Nweke described Prof. Esimone’s achievements as numerous, uncountable and unparallel. The scholar emphasized that his administration has provided administrative flexibility and huge infrastructural development which are signs of the full actualization of his vision. He prayed God to reward the VC for his achievements which has taken the University to enviable heights and given it massive global outlook.
Also, the Director, Open and Distant Learning Programme, Prof. Helen Adebola thanked the Vice-Chancellor for empowering the Directorate with his nods and approvals. The scholar noted that they now have certificate programmes in digital research, public speaking, blockchain technology and the center is coming up with time attributing the success story to the positive initiative and dynamic vision of the Vice-Chancellor.
In a vote of thanks, the University Bursar, Mr. Gozie Egwuatu thanked all and sundry who found time to honour the VC for his show of love, academic and administrative acumen. Egwuatu affirmed that under his reign there was improved system and landmark achievements, he prayed God to elevate Prof. Esimone to higher positions as he exits the post as the Chief Executive of the institution.
Highpoints of the occasion was presentation of various gift items to the Vice-Chancellor and photo sessions with the members of staff of the various units and directorates.
