VC Hails Jonathan Over Bio-Tech Institute

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), Prof. Bartho Okolo, has commended President Goodluck Jonathan for approving an international institute of biotechnology for the institution.

Okolo made the commendation in a statement signed by his Communication Secretary, Mr Gabriel Ndu, in Nsukka, Enugu State.

He said the approval had once again demonstrated the commitment of Mr President to improve the quality of education and research work in the country’s universities.

“I commend Mr President for his determination to improve the quality of education in the university as it will make it one of the best in the world.

“The institute will host international conferences as well as collaborate with other institutions in the country and in Africa to advance bio-technology education in the sub-region.

“The institute is the first of its kind in Africa, its benefits will not be for Nigeria alone but Africa in general,’’ he said.

Okolo said the institute would lay emphasis on food security, bio-resources conservation and tropical diseases, adding that it would attract erudite scholars across the globe who would bring their wealth of experience to bear in academic research.

“The UNN thanks individuals and organisations that made the realisation of the dream that started six years ago a reality.

“Our especial appreciations go to Prof. Ruqqayatu Rufa’i, the Minister of Education, Prof. Julius Okojie, the NUC Chairman, and the management of Education Trust Fund.

“I promise that UNN will provide the enabling environment to see that the institute lives up to its mandate as well as realise its objectives,” he said.