From Mokwugwo Solomon, Awka
New Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Anambra State, Dr. (Mrs) Irene Chioma Awuzie, has reeled out 12- point transformative agenda that will be the guiding principles for the administration of the institution for the next five years.
In her address during an elaborate ceremony to mark her official take-off as 6th substantive Rector, at the institution’s convocation arena on Tuesday, February 11, Awuzie noted that the 12- point agenda would serve as a strategic roadmap for repositioning the institution as a hub of technological creativity, innovation, entrepreneurship, and global competitiveness.
“As we embark on this new chapter in the history of this citadel of learning, our administration is firmly committed to a transformative vision encapsulated in a 12-point agenda.
“These pillars represent the strategic priorities our administration will pursue to drive the polytechnic forward. These efforts will create a serene and high-quality learning environment that fosters academic excellence, innovation and overall well-being.
“Our administration is committed to upholding this legacy of excellence while pushing the boundaries of knowledge, innovation, and technological development. We will strengthen our academic curricula, embrace digital transformation, and ensure that our students graduate with not only theoretical knowledge but also practical skills that will make them competitive in the global job market,” she announced.
The 12- point agenda, as encapsulated in the inaugural address, include: Human Resource Development, Staff Welfare, Academic Reinvention and Programme Development, Students’ Welfare, Discipline, Anti-cultism, Academic Integrity, Relationship with Stakeholders, Public Relations and Image Management, Security, Financial Transparency, and Infrastructural Development.
The new boss also called for collaboration among key stakeholders to move the institution forward, saying that she cannot do the works of transferring the institution alone.
She said: “Our administration will uphold an open-door policy, fostering constructive dialogue, stakeholder engagement, and ethical decision-making. We shall be fair, just and firm in all our dealings, ensuring that our policies and actions are guided by due process and the best interests of our institution.
“At this moment of new beginnings, I extend my hand of fellowship to all who participated in the selection process, particularly my esteemed colleagues who contested for this position. Your passion, vision, and dedication to the growth of our beloved institution are commendable, and I deeply respect your contributions.
“Leadership is not a solitary endeavour; it thrives on collaboration, shared aspirations, and collective commitment. I wholeheartedly invite you to joinhands with me as we embark on this journey to advance the polytechnic. Our institution needs our collective strength, ideas, and expertise, and I pledge my willingness to engage, accommodate, and collaborate with each of you.
“Let us set aside differences and unite with a shared purpose to propel this polytechnic to greater heights. With a spirit of inclusivity and teamwork, there is no limit to what we can achieve. Together, we will build, innovate, and transform.
“Together, we have the opportunity to shape the future of our polytechnic, ensuring that it continues to fulfill its mandate as a premier institution dedicated to technical, vocational and entrepreneurial education.”
Awuzie thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Polytechnic Governing Council led by Sen. Barnabas Gamade for approving and recommending her appointment as well as members of the institution’s community for their support.
In his goodwill message, Dr Fidelis Oduah, the chairman of Academic Staff Union of Polytechnic (ASUP), FedPoly, Oko branch, congratulated Awuzie for emerging as the first female Rector from the polytechnic community
Oduah expressed confidence that the new rector is a prayer answered, as she is one of their own and understands the challenges the school faces.
On his own, Mr Chijioke Ibeziako, the Public Relations Officer of the Polytechnic, said the appointment was a pleasant end to search for a substantive rector which produced four acting rectors in one year.
Ibeziako said Awuzie’s administration bring huge value to the successes of previous administrations, while maintaining that Fed Poly Oko remained one of the best in Nigeria.
Prof. Godwin Onu, a former Rector of the Polytechnic, congratulated Awuzie, saying that only God made kings.
Onu who is the Deputy Vice Chancellor Administration at Paul University, Awka, said Awuzie needed more than praises to succeed; but needs support and space to actualise her dreams for the institution.
