Jonathan Decries Poor Work Ethics In Varsities

University
administrators in  Nigeria  have been called upon to address without delay the current challenges of poor work ethics and prolonged industrial actions to enable the country run a successful 21st century educational system.
President, Goodluck Jonathan, who made the call in his adderss on the occasion of the 43rd Convocation ceremony of the University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN), stated that the development Nigeria desired could only take place in an atmosphere of peace and tranquility.
“The relevance of the university system to our transformation agenda and policy initiatives, for building a greater Nigeria, cannot be over-emphasized. We believe that to remain relevant in this 21st century, we must as a nation, consistently develop our human capital, as well as improve the state and standard of education in our country”.
He, however, reiterated his appeal to authorities of universities in the country to seek other ways of generating additional revenue needed to fund research and capital development in their various institutions.
Also speaking on the occasion, the Vice Chancellor of UNN, Professor Barth  Okolo, expressed deep concern over the future of university system in Nigeria
According to him, “the operation of our higher education is seriously abnormal and does not conform to recent trends in management of higher education institutions. Indeed,it obviously requires serious review”.
Turning to the over 7, 000 graduands, Professor Okolo said, “You should please not allow the prevailing socio-economic situation, especially the problem of unempolyment to diminish the feeling of pride and accomplishment you should have on a day like this. I, therefore, urge you all to face the future with both courage and confidence , knowing that the future holds enormous potentials for you”.
No fewer than 7,989  deserving graduands were awarded degrees and diplomas during the convocation, while four distinguished Nigerians including   Ex-Biafran warlord, late Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, received honorary doctorate degrees of the university

Representative of Minister of Industry, Mr Samuel Eya, cutting the tape to declare open the 25th Enugu International Trade Fair in Enugu last Friday. With him is representative of Enugu State Government, Mr Ugwu Egede. Photo: NAN