Abia State Government has warned private tertiary institutions operating in the state against compromising standards.
Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Prof. Eme Uche Eme who gave the warning at a Stakeholders’ Forum of Amadeus University, Amizi in Ikwuano Local Government Area, threatened sanctions against defaulters.
She tasked Amadeus University billed to take off soon, to key into the ongoing transformation of the Alex Otti-led administration which has for the first time, since the history of the state, met the 25% budgetary threshold for Education.
Prof. Eme said the state was committed to upholding the highest standards with regard to education at all levels. Prof. Eme commended the Founder of Amadeus University, Dr Godwin Nwabunka, for establishing the university which according to her, “represents an investment in the future of youths and the advancement of education”.
“Amadues University is not just another addition to our educational landscape, it is a beacon of hope and a symbol of our determination to provide a world-class education that is accessible to all. “With a focus on innovative teaching methods, cutting-edge research and community engagement, Amadeus University is expected to become a hub for intellectual and professional development”, the Commissioner said.
She promised the Government’s support for the success of the university.
In a remark, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Samuel Nzotta, assured the Forum that the institution “set to commence full academic activities”, would help improve the quality of education in the country.
He said the university was established “with a clear vision of producing globally competitive and practically-oriented graduates that will positively impact societal sustainable development”.
He disclosed that the institution had secured full accreditation for 19 programmes under 13 Departments and four faculties.
“The university is positioned to be a global brand and shall provide opportunities for the students to become visionary, skilled and development-oriented leaders with innovative and entrepreneurship orientation”, the VC said.
Speaking also, former Vice Chancellor, University of Uyo, who had also served as Chairman of National Universities Commission (NUC) Standing Committee on Private Universities, expressed satisfaction with the quality of facilities in the institution.
Traditional Ruler of Amizi Autonomous Community, His Royal Highness, Eze Ozo Ananaba, promised full support and cooperation of the host community.
“Our community will do all that are required of it. We are grateful that this university is sited on our soil by our silent-Achiver son”, the monarch said.
Speaking at the event, the Registrar, Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Prof Ishaq Olyede, tasked tertiary institutions in the country on running entrepreneurship courses and skills acquisition programmes for self-reliance of their products.
He said society needed job creators and not job seekers.
“We envision a university that would not only educate but also inspire; we envision a place where students would be turned to leaders, entrepreneurs and change-makers; a place that will not be reckoned with cultists, notorious boys and girls; a place where ideas will be formed and dreams realized”, he added
The JAMB boss who said that Amadeus University had got all necessary approvals and licenses it needed to operate as a private university, promised collaboration with the institution.
Prof. Olyede who was represented by the Abia State Coordinator of JAMB, Juliet Anikwe, said :”Amadeus university is NUC approved and accredited, JAMB approved, JAMB accredited and enjoys JAMB partnership”.
He expressed hope that the university would deliver on its core mandate.
