UNIZIK Pre-Medical Programmes Unit Holds Interactive Forum, Projects Structure, Transition Guidelines

By Gabriel Chy Alonta

The Pre-Medical Programmes Unit of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, has held its annual Interactive Session Forum, drawing together over 2,000 students, deans, heads of departments and senior academics in a strategic engagement designed to clarify expectations, strengthen structure and prepare students for the demanding journey ahead.

Unlike a routine orientation, the forum served as a deliberate institutional conversation, a platform where management, faculties and students engaged directly on academic standards, transition processes and the responsibilities tied to studying in the health-related disciplines of the University.

In her address, the Coordinator of the Pre-Medical Programmes Unit, Prof. Ebere Ihegihu, described the gathering as “more than a meeting,” noting that it represents a structured dialogue between those who lead and those who learn.

She explained that the Unit occupies a unique position within the academic architecture of the University, coordinating twelve programmes across five faculties – spanning Anatomy, Physiology, Medical Rehabilitation, Radiography, Nursing, Environmental Health Sciences, Nutrition and Dietetics, Medical Laboratory Sciences, Medicine and Surgery, Dentistry, Pharmacy and Forensic Science.

“Twelve programmes. Five faculties. One shared beginning – right here on this Awka Campus,” she stated, emphasising that the Unit provides the foundational academic platform upon which future health professionals are built.

Prof. Ihegihu stressed that the transition from the Awka Campus to the Agulu and Nnewi campuses is not merely geographical but academic, requiring adequate preparation, discipline and clarity of purpose. She maintained that the interactive forum exists to ensure that no student navigates that transition without guidance, support and a sense of belonging.

During the session, students were clearly informed of the academic implications of underperformance, including the consequence of any carryover course, which could terminate their progression in the programme. They were provided with practical guidelines for successful studentship, including consistent lecture attendance, disciplined study habits, adherence to University regulations and early academic engagement.

Representing the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ugochukwu Bond Anyaehie, the Director of the Continuous Education Programme, Prof. Greg Obiamalu, reaffirmed the University management’s commitment to sustaining high academic standards and providing an enabling environment for learning.

Other University officials who spoke briefly reinforced the core message of responsibility, focus and integrity as non-negotiable pillars for students pursuing careers in the health sciences.

The forum featured an extensive interactive segment, where students asked questions on academic expectations, departmental requirements and transition procedures. The engagement provided clarity, dispelled uncertainties and strengthened confidence among participants.

Also, Dean of Students Affairs, Prof. Kingsley Ubaoji, advised students to prioritize their studies. He cautioned them to stay focused, noting that relationships and other distractions have their place, but timing is key.

The Dean of the Faculty of Physical Sciences, Prof. Ebere Virginia Ejiofor, commended the Coordinator of the Pre-Medical Programmes Unit, Prof. Ihegihu for formally recognising the foundational roles of the Faculties of Physical Sciences and Biosciences in nurturing the students at their entry stage.

She noted that it was the first time the foundational faculties were being expressly acknowledged and invited to such a strategic forum, describing the gesture as thoughtful and inclusive. According to her, the collaboration underscores the shared responsibility of building a solid academic base for the students’ future professional training.

Prof. Ejiofor further advised the students to take their core science courses seriously and commit themselves to rigorous study, stressing that their performance in the foundational subjects would determine their progression in the programme.

Also, UNIZIK Registrar, Dr. Gloria Okeke, represented by Mr. Emma Nnaemeka, Administration Officer, Faculty of Biosciences urged students to ensure they meet 75 percent lecture attendance, dress appropriately, shun hard drugs, cultism and examination misconduct.

Earlier in his remarks, the Chairman of the occasion and Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, Prof. I.K. Mbachu, underscored the significance of the interactive forum, describing it as a vital platform for aligning students with the expectations of the University and their respective professional pathways. He urged the students to internalise and put into practice the guidance and directives shared during the session, stressing that the strength of the programme lies not only in its structure but in the discipline and character of its participants.

Prof. Mbachu further reminded them that academic excellence must be complemented by good conduct at all times, noting that professionalism begins with integrity, responsibility and adherence to institutional regulations.