Education
THE Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike in Ikwo Local Government Area of Ebonyi has assured pioneer members of staff that the institution would continue to prioritise their interest in recognition of their sacrifices.
Prof. Daniel Nwachukwu, Vice-Chancellor of the institution gave the assurance while receiving members of the AE-FUNAI Pioneer Staff Forum during a courtesy visit to his office on Friday in Ebonyi.
Nwachukwu commended the pioneer staff for their resilience, dedication and commitment, describing them as critical stakeholders in the development of the institution since its establishment in 2011.
According to him, building a new university is a difficult task, especially at a time when structures, systems, and policies were still evolving.
“I am thrilled to have the pioneer staff of our great university in my office today; it is never easy to start something from the beginning considering the foundation of the university,” he said.
He noted that the pioneer staff distinguished themselves through courage, perseverance, and devotion to duty, adding that their efforts had contributed immensely to the academic and administrative growth of the university.
Nwachukwu applauded the forum for setting standards for others to emulate and urged members to continue to serve diligently in their various departments and offices.
He assured them that their sacrifices and contributions would not be overlooked, stressing that the future held brighter opportunities for both the staff and the institution.
“The sacrifices and contributions of the pioneer staff will be rewarded accordingly; the future holds better prospects for you and for the university as a whole,” the VC said.
He also appealed for their continued support and cooperation toward the attainment of his administration’s vision of repositioning the university for greater academic and administrative excellence.
He disclosed that his administration would give priority consideration to the children of staff in matters relating to admission and employment opportunities within the institution.
Earlier, the chairman of forum, Dr Joseph Chukwu, congratulated Nwachukwu on his appointment as the fourth substantive vice-chancellor of the university.
Chukwu pledged the forum’s support and prayers for the success of the administration, describing the pioneer staff as the bedrock upon which the institution was built.
According to him, despite the difficult working conditions and limited resources during the formative years of the university, the pioneer staff remained committed to excellence, discipline, institutional grow th, and public service.
“The pioneer staff played major roles in developing the academic, administrative, and institutional structures of the university,” he said.
He appealed to the vice-chancellor to sustain the recognition of pioneer staff through greater inclusion in university committees and other institutional activities.
Chukwu also disclosed plans by the forum to establish an AE-FUNAI Pioneers and Archives Centre aimed at preserving and documenting the history and legacy of the institution.
He explained that the proposed centre would serve as a repository of historical information for visitors, staff and students seeking authentic accounts of the university’s origin and development.
According to him, the facility would also include conference halls, offices, and shopping spaces capable of generating revenue for the institution.
The highpoint of the visit was the presentation of a gift to the vice-chancellor by members of the pioneer staff forum. (NAN)
F.O
Tags: Ebonyi Varsity