The Executive Chairman, Benue State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Dr. Grace Adagba, recently attended the board meeting of the Faculty of Sciences, Benue State University (BSU), to reunite with her immediate academic constituency.
Addressing faculty members, Dr. Adagba emphasised the importance of maintaining ties with the institution that shaped her career, stating that she felt it necessary to reconnect, share experiences and discuss challenges for mutual benefit. She expressed gratitude to the university and the faculty for the mentorship and training she received, which have guided her both in academia and administration.
Adagba acknowledged Governor Hyacinth Alia’s commitment to appointing individuals into leadership positions and encouraging them to support their constituents; and with BSU as her academic constituency, she was happy to reach out to them.
She noted that one of her contributions since assuming office was facilitating the return of the SUBEB training institution to the university and ensuring that its facilitators were drawn mainly from the faculty.
Additionally, she facilitated the enrollment of BSU with the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN), which has strengthened teachers’ training and professional development.
Furthermore, she approved several requests made by the faculty to enhance teaching and learning, assuring members that her doors remain open for collaboration and support.
Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academics), Professor Simon Ubwa, lauded Adagba’s visit, commending her for remaining connected to her roots. He urged others in leadership positions to emulate her dedication and generosity in giving back to their roots.
Dean of the Faculty of Sciences, Professor Bernard Atu, praised Adagba for her developmental strides in basic education and for taking time out of her busy schedule to engage with her former colleagues. He lamented that many people forget their academic origins when they rise to higher positions but acknowledged Adagba’s visit as a remarkable exception.
He also requested support for the faculty, particularly in providing furniture for three lecture rooms, a smart board for teaching, a public address system, a projector and a motorised borehole pump to address staff water needs.
Head of the Department of Physics, Professor Frederick Gbaorun, described Adagba as an outstanding administrator, whose leadership skills had been evident in various capacities. He expressed appreciation for her visit and the hospitality extended to faculty members, praying for her continued success.
Professor Omodu Umoru joined his colleagues in praying for Adagba’s advancement. He urged other faculty members to remember their alma mater when elevated to higher positions, just as the SUBEB chairman has done.