•Varsity set for 34th convocation of 13,816 graduands
From TONY JOHN, Port Harcourt
The Vice Chancellor of University of Port Harcourt (UniPort), Professor Owunari Georgewill, said the institution has played important role in addressing societal challenges and promoting sustainable development.
He said the institution achieved the milestone through academic programmes, research endeavours, outreach initiatives and empowering countless individuals to pursue their dreams, contribute to society, and drive positive change in their communities.
Prof. Georgewill said this when he briefed journalists in Port Harcourt, on Friday, on the university’s 34th Convocation Ceremony for 13,816 graduands, slated for Saturday, February 24, 2024.
According to him, because of the institution’s location, UniPort has served as a beacon of enlightenment and progress for the surrounding communities.
“Our location in this vibrant region has allowed us to leverage local resources, address regional challenges, and promote sustainable development. Through our academic programmes, research endeavours, and outreach initiatives, we have empowered countless individuals to pursue their dreams, contribute to society, and drive positive change in their communities.
“Additionally, the university has played a pivotal role in addressing societal challenges through community engagement initiatives and partnerships with government agencies, NGOs, and industry stakeholders.
“Over the past four decades, the institution has remained steadfast in its commitment to providing quality education, conducting cutting-edge research, and fostering community development.
“From its humble beginnings, the University of Port Harcourt has grown to become a renowned centre of learning, contributing significantly to the intellectual, social, and economic advancement of the nation.”
On the successes recorded so far, Prof. Georgewill continued: “Throughout its history, the University of Port Harcourt has achieved numerous milestones and accolades. Notably, our institution has consistently ranked among the top universities in Nigeria and currently is ranked as number one and has garnered international recognition for its academic programmes and research output.
“The University of Port Harcourt takes pride in our diverse and vibrant community of students, faculties, and staff, who continually strive for excellence in their respective fields.’
He added that the institution has benefited greatly from the generous support of both federal and state governments, which have enabled the university to enhance its infrastructure, expand its academic offerings, and improve the overall learning environment for students.
Georgewill expressed: “We would like to use this medium to appreciate the Federal Government for their support and programmes through intervention platforms. The Rivers State Government present and past administrations, we say thank you.”
He added: “As we prepare to celebrate our 34th Convocation Ceremony, we are delighted to announce that we are set to graduate a total number of 13,816 graduands out of which 8,146 are for the award of First Degree certificates, 3,665 are for the Post Graduate Diploma, 1,528 are for Masters Degrees and 477 are for Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) respectfully.
According to the vice chancellor, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Musa Christopher, will deliver convocation lecture on ‘National Security and Challenges’.