By Chinyere Nwoye
Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, is set to graduate 16,842 students at its forthcoming convocation ceremony, following significant achievements in academic development, infrastructure, healthcare, digital transformation and institutional reforms.
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ugochukwu Anyaehie, disclosed this during the University’s pre-convocation press conference, where he highlighted major accomplishments recorded by his administration towards strengthening institutional capacity and improving service delivery.
He said the University had expanded its digital infrastructure with modern computer laboratories, 200 all-in-one desktop computers, 20 high-performance laptops, interactive smart screens, servers and video-conferencing facilities, supported by high-capacity inverter systems.
On administrative reforms, Anyaehie explained that the institution introduced an online graduate-clearance system to eliminate unnecessary delays, while digitising historical academic records, examination results and transcripts for easier retrieval.
He further disclosed that the Vice-Chancellor’s Student Portal had been redesigned to improve communication between students and management, providing a more accessible platform for engagement and timely information.
In medical education, UNIZIK secured full re-accreditation from the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria, while its annual MBBS admission quota increased from 100 to 300 students.
The Vice-Chancellor added that plans were underway to upgrade the University Medical Centre into a 24-hour emergency facility, alongside expanded CCTV surveillance, perimeter lighting and improved hostel facilities.
Highlighting the institution’s growing reputation, Anyaehie announced UNIZIK’s joint fourth position among Nigerian universities in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings, alongside victories in national debate and international sports competitions.
He celebrated the debate team’s historic victory at the 13th All Nigerian Universities Debate Championship and athletes’ silver and bronze medals at the 12th FASU Games in Cairo, urging graduands to uphold discipline, self-reliance and excellence.
Chinyere Nwoye is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
