By Ikenna Nwokedi
The UNIZIK Advancement Board (UAB) on Tuesday, 25th February, 2025 held her maiden edition of UNIZIK Advancement Day.
The event which took place at the Charriot Guest House, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka provided a convergence for scholars and critical stakeholders in the education sector to discuss on ways for advancement of the Ivory Tower.
Declaring the event open, the Acting Vice-Chancellor of UNIZIK, Prof. Joseph Ikechebelu stated that the creation of the UNIZIK Advancement Board is geared towards moving the institution to an enviable height in teaching, research, development and community service. Prof. Ikechebelu informed that the UAB platform is strategic in its approach for innovation and all round progressive development of the institution which is in line with his administration’s mandate of BLESSED UNIZIK and hedgehog concept of Happy Productive Staff and Happy Progressive Students.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the occasion, High Chief Engr. Dr. Johnbosco Onunkwo described the program as unique and exciting with UNIZIK being the third institution in the country to establish the all important Directorate. High Chief Onunkwo who was represented by Mr. Evaristus Okonkwo stated that the advent of the UAB will cater for a lot of things in the University that will propel development in both academic excellence and administration. The Oil magnate assured of his support towards the roles and responsibilities of the UAB.
In his welcome address, the Chairman Planning Committee and Global President of UNIZIK Alumni Association, Dr. Ikechukwu Umeh stated that the landmark event marked the beginning of a transformative journey which reaffirms the commitment of the UAB in achieving academic excellence, institutional growth and strategic engagement of stakeholders.
Dr. Umeh further said that the UAB is a vital bridge connecting the university, UNIZIK Alumni, corporate partners and benefactors of the institution in a shared mission to advance the University’s academic infrastructure frontiers. The scholar reminded all that the responsibility of building a world-class institution rests on all stakeholders who are in one way or the other affiliated to the university. He appreciated all who were critical towards achieving the vision of the UAB.
Also speaking, the Special Guest and the CEO, Blord Group, Chief Linus Ifejika averred that the UAB is a good innovation which will accerelate the institution all round with the right framework in place. Chief Ifejika promised to support the institution through funding and innovative transportation made possible through Electric Cars. The tech expert also thanked the UAB for the recognition and award to him.
On his part, the Royal Father of the Day, HRM Igwe (Pharm) Alex Onyido maintained that the challenges of modern education requires innovation, part of which the UAB was set up by the current administration under the leadership of Prof. Ikechebelu. He charged various stakeholders to support the body in achieving her vision and set goals.
The Guest Lecturer, Oladimeji Tiamiyu in his lecture titled, “Advancement Services and Institutional Development”, defined institutional advancement as external relations charged with building relationships with a full range of external stakeholders such as Alumni, donors, community partners, private sector, legislators and other government agencies.
The scholar from the Directorate of Advancement and Linkages, National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) disclosed that the overall objective of institutional advancement is to ensure the development of the University through the creation of a sound third-stream income, strong alumni programs, a credible reputation and flawless image that fosters excellence in teaching and learning, research and community engagement. Highlighting the focus, strategic goals and responsibilities of institutional advancement, Tiamiyu disclosed some of the advancement services’ practices such as advancement management, campaign management, prospect development as well as donor relations and stewardship.
He also mentioned funding as one of the major challenges to the pursuit of sustainable development in Nigerian Universities with steps toward achieving funding as to Identify, appreciate, research, plan, cultivate, request and close. Tiamiyu also affirmed that involvement of alumni in supporting and providing contributions voluntarily to their university is important for maintaining and expanding a University’s development.
In her vote of thanks, the Director of UAB, Prof. Ebele Onwuka appreciated all and sundry who made the event grand describing it as a huge success. The UAB Director promised that the board is poised towards achieving academic excellence and institutional growth by the board’s stated goals and creating a solid relationship between the town and gown.
The event also featured award presentations to the Chairman of the occasion, High Chief Engr. Dr. Johnbosco Onunkwo; Royal Father of the day, HRM Igwe (Pharm) Alex Onyido and the Special Guest, Chief Linus Ifejika.
