100 DAYS: Anambra Commissioner Hails Awuzie’s Giant Strides as Fedpoly Oko Rector

By Praise Chinecherem

Anambra state Commissioner for Culture, Entertainment and Tourism, Don Onyenji has assured the Federal Polytechnic Oko of preparedness of state government to support the institution towards its growth and development.

Onyenji gave the assurance during the thanksgiving celebration as part of activities marking the 100 days in office of the Rector, Dr Chioma Awuzie.

He commended efforts of the Rector in transforming the institution, including reactivation of polytechnic’s radio station, water factory, bakery and confectionaries.

While noting that the Rector’s feats did not take him by surprise, having known her for several years and what she could offer, the Commissioner however advised her not to rest on her oars but to rather up her ante.

He said, “Anambra state government has a role to play towards the success of the institution.

“Our governor is a Professor of professors who loves and is passionate about quality and functional education.

“He has his eyes on the institution and he’s supporting her very well. That’s why we’re here to celebrate with the Polytechnic community.

“I’m not surprised about Chioma’s performance. I’ve known her for years. Before she became Rector, she’s held several sensitive positions in the institution.

“As you can see today, the taste of the pudding is in the eating. The environment has changed. This is the first time after Prof Godwin Onu, with due respect.

“My message to her is to put her ears on the ground. She should ensure she always listens to both sides to get the right position.

“She should also insist on intervention in critical areas that will make the Polytechnic productive and take her place in the comity of institutions, especially technical institutions.

“I’m happy she’s reactivated the moribund radio station after several years. The Polytechnic radio is very critical in community broadcasting and mobilization.”

Earlier, the Rector, while enumerating her achievements, reassured her commitment to quality education, promoting community service, sports development and culture of excellence.
She said, “My administration hit the ground running immediately and has recorded many successes including the completion of the Skills Development Centre, Senator Barnabas Gemade Medical Centre at Ufuma Campus, restoration of regular water supply in institution, 7% fee reduction, and the revitalization of the Polytechnic enterprises.

“We’ve also commissioned new projects such as the Staff Sport Club/Guest House, expanded and renovated Polytechnic Press, Medical Centre Ufuma Campus, reactivated polytechnic water factory, reactivated polytechnic bakery and confectionaries, security posts completed under the new administration in the school.

“My aspiration is to rebuild trust, strengthen academic excellence, build infrastructure and restore the dignity and pride of the polytechnic”

Awuzie expressed deep gratitude to President Bola Tinubu, Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, and the Governing Council for the call to serve.

Former Acting Rector, Dr. Chukwugekwu Ubaka attested the giant turn around in the institution and prayed God to grant her health to enable her fulfill her vision and mission for the school.

The event was graced by members of Governing Council of the institution, management, staff and students as well as friends of the Polytechnic, including Imo state deputy governor, Dr Chinyere Ekomaru.