Chioma Sunny-Adikwu
The Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Procurement, Environmental and Social Standards (CE-sPESS) at the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO) recently concluded a two-day orientation programme for its new students. The event, which took place recently, welcomed and onboarded 85 Undergraduate and 63 Postgraduate Diploma students, respectively, introducing them to the university’s academic, social, and cultural environment.
In her opening remarks, the eighth substantive Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof Nnenna Oti, represented by the Deputy Director of the Centre, Prof. Jude-Anthony Ogbulie, congratulated the new intakes for making it to the University and reminded them that FUTO remained one of the best universities in Nigeria to acquire higher degrees, hence they should maximize the opportunity.
The Centre Director, Engr. Prof. Gloria Chukwudebe, in her welcome address, emphasised the importance of making the most of the university experience. She encouraged students to engage with their lecturers, utilise the Centre’s resources, and participate in extracurricular activities to develop their skills and interests. The Centre Director also emphasised the Centre’s commitment to fostering students’ academic, personal, and professional development. In her words, “This event today is to acquaint you with the special features of our Centre and also advise on how to graduate promptly with a good result and fulfilment in your area of study and life generally”.
The Deputy Directors of the Centre also addressed the students, offering words of wisdom and advice. The Deputy Director, Procurement Management (PRM), Engr. Prof. (Mrs.) Benedicta Uche Dike encouraged students to focus on their academics, socialise, and join professional and spiritual organisations for their personal growth. Prof. Chris Nwoko, the Deputy Director, Sustainable Environmental Studies (EVS), reminded students to prioritise their studies, put God first, and strive for excellence. Similarly, the Deputy Director of Social Standards Development (SSD), Prof. Jude-Anthony Ogbulie, emphasised the importance of representing oneself and one’s family in a good light and advised students to make the most of the facilities and opportunities available to them.
Moreover, the Dean, School of Postgraduate Studies (PGS), Prof. Justina Nwosu, who was represented by the Associate Dean of PGS, Prof. Chukwudi Egwuonwu, advised the students to stick to the rules and regulations of the school while their programmes last to avoid complaints, as the school has the needed facilities to accelerate their learning activities.
The orientation programme featured plenary sessions handled by faculty members on a range of topics, including academic discipline, the use of ICT and the Learning Management System (LMS), code of conduct and sexual harassment, environmental health and safety, grievance redress, the role of course advisers and the University rules and regulations. The students also had the opportunity to ask questions and interact with faculty members.
In his vote of thanks, Mr. Haggai Musa, an undergraduate student representative, thanked the management and the Centre Director for organising the programme. “I promise that the year one students will be of good behaviour and make the most use of the facilities available to us”, he added. Similarly, one of the PGD students, Mr. Ignatius Emeziem, appreciated the Management for their high academic standards. “I promise that we will uphold the regulations of the Centre and the University”, he concluded.
In her closing remarks, the Centre Director, Engr. Prof. Gloria Chukwudebe expressed gratitude to the students for their active participation and anticipated compliance with the University’s rules and regulations throughout their programme. “Importantly, the management team is committed to providing the necessary support and care you need throughout your stay at the university”, she assured.
The successful orientation programme marked an important milestone in the students’ academic journey and set the stage for a productive and fulfilling experience at FUTO.
