The Vice-Chancellor of Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education, Prof. Stella Ngozi Lemchi, has expressed gratitude to the Visitor of the institution and President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for the timely approval and release of the Consolidated Academic Tools Allowance (CATA) to staff of the university.
She said the development has ushered in academic peace and stability in the newly upgraded university.
Lemchi made this known on Thursday during the institution’s second matriculation ceremony held at the university pavilion in Owerri, where 2,121 fresh students were formally admitted. The figure comprises 2,066 Bachelor’s degree students and 55 Professional Diploma in Education candidates who took the matriculation oath.
According to the Vice-Chancellor, AIFUE staff were among the first beneficiaries of the allowance following the institution’s upgrade, noting that the payment has significantly boosted morale, service delivery and productivity among academic and non-academic staff.
She also commended the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, for his role in facilitating the payment and supporting infrastructural development within the university.
Lemchi cited the recent completion and upgrade of student hostels through the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), which she said has provided modern accommodation and addressed deficits that persisted for over 15 years.
The Vice-Chancellor further appreciated the Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodimma, for his support and guidance, noting that his administration recently awarded N10 million to Ebubenna Clinton Amaefula of the English Department, who emerged second in the “Imo at 50” Quiz Competition organised to mark the state’s 50th anniversary.
On discipline, Lemchi reiterated the university’s zero-tolerance stance on examination malpractice, cybercrime, drug abuse, cultism and other social vices, warning that any student found culpable would face expulsion.
She disclosed that since her appointment last July, the university has expanded its academic offerings to 45 degree programmes across six faculties.
Addressing the matriculating students, she urged diligence and integrity, stating:
“Success is not a miracle; it is a daily habit. You build it by attending every lecture and studying in the library long before examinations arrive. Examination malpractice is a complete ‘no, no’. If you are caught, you will be expelled.”
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