Why We Established Parents, Guardian Forum in Ojukwu Varsity – VC

By Praise Chinecherem

Management of the Chukwuemeka Odumegewu Ojukwu University, Igbariam, Anambra State has established a parents and guardians forum to checkmate welfare of students of the institution.

Speaking during the unveiling at the Varsity’s ETF Auditorium during its maiden meeting with stakeholders, VIce Chancellor, Prof Kate Omenugha, said the forum is targeted at mediating between students and university Management during uprisings capable of disrupting peace and smooth running of academic activities within the university community.

She said the forum is also to mediate between parents and the university management as well as help fast track resolution of issues like that of missing results, transcripts request and poor class attendance.

According to her, the launching of the Parents’ Forum is to kill rumors and build trust as well as assist in dissuading students from cultism practices, cyber bullying, examination malpractices, thuggery and other related vices.

“This forum will be a direct channel. No more rumors, no more third-party stories. Through our various official fora, you will get timely updates on fees, academic calendars, facilities and student welfare.

“Any message that is not from the Coordinator Parents Forum, Dr Chijioke Okoye or the University PRO, Dr Harrison Madubueze should be disregarded.

“We also want to hear from you — your concerns, suggestions and ideas. Do not use foul language. Communication will be our compass.

“The University under my watch is building a community of happy people. Today’s maiden meeting mark a commendable day for us because every student journey in this university is our value.

“As it stands today, we have over 27,000 students and the students cut across 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

“We are trying to build a sustainability in our varsity system. Students are my first priority. I must protect them as a mother because they are the reason why we all are here.

“My administration is anchored on fairness, equity, justice, transparency and accountability. The University has not increased her school fees for good ten years now. We make this sacrifice to encourage you parents and guardians to train your children with ease.

“My administration is also focusing more on ICT to catch up international best standard.

“The University established 25 years ago has been a beacon of qualitative and research-oriented education for thousands of knowledge seekers across Nigeria.”

Assuring the forum and other stakeholders of her openness to suggestions, innovations and ideas which would drive transformative development in the university, Omenugha called for teamwork to sustain the institution as the university of now and of the future.

“We also want to let the parents and guardians know that they are also critical stakeholders to the development of education in Anambra State and beyond.

“We urge other parents and guardians who are not present during the meeting to visit the school administrative office for proper registration as members of the forum,” she added.

Speaking separately, participants expressed readiness to contribute collaboratively to ensure safety, allay fears and promote goodwill for the betterment of the university.

The event also featured VC’s inspection tour to some ongoing construction projects and tree planting as symbol of solid partnership between the University management and the forum.