Ebonyi New Varsities Kick off Soon As Commissioner Sworn-in VCs

Commissioner for Tertiary Education in Ebonyi State, Prof. Amari Omaka, SAN, has announced that the two newly established universities in the state are expected to commence operations early next year.

This was revealed while interacting with newsmen shortly after the swearing-in ceremony of the acting Vice Chancellors of the University of Information Communication Technology (ICT), Oferekpe-Agbaja, and the University of Aeronautical Engineering, Ezza, at the Centenary City, Abakaliki. Prof. Omaka stated that necessary preparation needed to be undergone to ensure the universities are ready for their first intake of students.

"Our initial target was for the universities to take off by September, but it appears that may not be realistic because a lot of things have to be done," he explained. He cited the ongoing construction of academic buildings and the development of the university master plans as the course for delay. "For things to be ready for the students to come into the university, I don't expect them to go maybe later than early next year," he added. The Commissioner stressed that the newly sworn-in acting Vice Chancellors, Prof. Ernest Egba for the University of ICT and Prof. Patrick Nwofe for the University of Aeronautical Engineering, have significant responsobilities beyond academic leadership. "This appointment is not to come and drink tea, but to come and work," Prof. Omaka stated.

He urged them to engage with relevant authorities, including the National Universities Commission (NUC), to secure necessary approvals and ensure the seamless operation of the universities. In his remarks, the acting Vice Chancellor of University of Information Communication Technology (ICT), Prof. Ernest Egba, expressed his commitment to advancing the university's mission. "I'm overwhelmed by what happened, and I promise to do my best to keep the flag flying," he said. He expressed confidence in ensuring the smooth running of the institution. "I believe with so many intellectuals around me, we will move mountains and level the mountains," he added. Similarly, the acting Vice Chancellor of the University of Aeronautical Engineering, Prof. Patrick Nwofe, pledged to fulfill his duties in alignment with the state's educational goals. "I will perform my duties as expected and ensure that the people's charter of needs mantra concerning education, which today I have been given a special assignment, I will ensure that I fulfill it," Prof. Nwofe stated. He assured that his efforts would make both the state and the world proud of the university. "The university will be a world-class institution," he affirmed.