Emma Elekwa
Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra state has inaugurated a 24-member Advancement Board to provide necessary support to the development of the university.
The Board created in 2024 has the Chairman, Stanel Group, Dr Stanley Uzochukwu, as the Chairman.
Inaugurating the Board, Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof Ugochukwu Anyaehie said it was constituted for the university advancement and projects development.
According to him, the board is composed of strategic partners, university staff, alumni who have excelled in different endeavors.
They are also people who are interested in the development of the institution.
“The board is constituted to assist us attract funds from friends to develop projects including infrastructure, scholarships endowment,” he added.
He described appointment of the board chairman, Dr Stanley Uzochukwu, as strategic considering his expertise and influence.
Prof. Anyaehie expressed optimism on the board’s ability to deliver on their mandate.
“Today’s starting shows God’s hand is in it and we’re not afraid of failure. We might not achieve all our expectations, but we believe God we’ll succeed,” he said.
Global rating
Speaking after the inauguration, the Board Chairman, who doubles as Chairman, Stanel Group, Uzochukwu said he envisioned a university that would be globally rated, calling for support towards achieving the overall goal of the board.
He said, “Today is not just about an inauguration. It is about alignment; alignment between vision and purpose, between legacy and the future, between what this university has been and what it is destined to become.
“This assignment is a call to serve and humbling one which puts lots of pressure on us to deliver.
“In the next 12 months, we should have something tangible to showcase to the world that this movement has started.
“It’s not going to be story telling. With the quality and credible persons in the board, we can’t afford to tell stories. We must showcase results.
“We anticipate to see the institution after our assignment on the global stage because our members are global icons, with quality names.
“We’re looking at putting this university on global stage. “As I take on this role, I do not come with titles, I come with responsibility.
“A responsibility to bring strategic thinking, bold partnerships, and a relentless drive for excellence. Because we must think bigger.
“We must build a university that does not just produce graduates, but produces global changemakers.
Setting trends
“A university that does not just follow trends but sets them. A university that does not just grow but transforms lives, industries, and nations.”
Director of the Board, Prof Ebele Onwuka described the inauguration as beginning of a renewed and purposeful partnership between the university and her critical stakeholders.
She congratulated Uzochukwu on his appointment which she described as testament to his distinguished accomplishments, Integrity, and proven leadership capacity.
“We are confident that under your stewardship, UNIZIK Advancement Board will chart a bold, innovative, and transformative course for this university.
“As the Director, I assure you of the full support and cooperation of the Secretariat.
“Together, we shall work diligently to build a vibrant advancement culture; one that inspires giving, fosters Institutional pride, and creates lasting impact for present and future generations,” she added.
Global president of the UNIZIK Alumni Association, Prof Ikechukwu Umeh expressed the association’s readiness to support the board.
He urged the members to make themselves available for the service of transforming their alma mater.
