01/09/2026
SCHOOL OF SECONDARY EDUCATION, SCIENCE PROGRAMME HONOURS RETIRING ELDER OKON ENOH, CELEBRATES DR. ELIZABETH BETIANG
The School of Secondary Education, Sciences Programme, Federal College of Education, Obudu, has held a colourful send-forth ceremony in honour of Elder Ephraim Okon-Enoh, a long-serving staff member of the College, who recently retired from the services of the College, while also recognising the immediate past Dean of the School, Dr. Elizabeth Betiang, for her meritorious service and outstanding contributions to the growth and development of the School.
The ceremony, which took place today at the College Pavilion, brought together members of staff, friends, colleagues, students and well-wishers who gathered to celebrate two individuals whose contributions have left an indelible mark on the School and the wider College community.
In his opening remarks, the Provost of the College, Dr. Richard Ugbaha Utubaku, ably represented by the Deputy Provost Academics, Dr. Ezekiel Oji, expressed profound appreciation to Elder Ephraim Okon-Enoh for his years of dedicated service to the Federal College of Education, Obudu.
The Deputy Provost, on behalf of the Provost and the entire College Management, thanked the retiring staff member for the sacrifices, commitment and contributions he made throughout his years in the service of the College.
He described retirement not as an end to productivity but as the beginning of another phase of life, encouraging Elder Okon-Enoh to continue to make meaningful contributions to society, noting that he still possesses the strength and capacity to remain useful and impactful.
He urged him to remain active and continue to deploy his wealth of experience for the benefit of the younger generation and society at large.
The occasion also provided an opportunity for the School to celebrate the immediate past Dean, Dr. Elizabeth Betiang, for her meritorious service and leadership during her tenure.
Dr. Betiang was recognised for her commitment to the development of the School, her leadership qualities, and the contributions she made towards advancing academic and administrative activities within the Sciences Programme.
The highlight of the occasion was the reading of the citation of the retiree, which provided an insight into his professional journey, accomplishment, dedication and contribution to the College.
Following the citation, the School presented special awards to both Elder Ephraim Okon-Enoh and Dr. Elizabeth Betiang in recognition of their respective services and contributions.
The awards were received amid applause from colleagues and guests, who described the gesture as a fitting recognition of individuals who have given their best to the institution.
Delivering his valedictory speech, Elder Ephraim Okon-Enoh expressed gratitude to God, whom he described as the giver and sustainer of life.
In an emotional reflection on his years of service, the retiring staff member took the audience down memory lane, recalling how he was employed into the services of the Federal College of Education, Obudu.
He reflected on the transformation that had taken place in his life over the years, stressing that he came into the College as a young man and was leaving as a grandfather.
According to him, one of the greatest rewards of his years in the teaching profession has been the opportunity to influence and shape the lives of students who passed through him.
He expressed pride in the fact that many of his former students have gone on to attain remarkable heights in their academic and professional careers, with some becoming academics, while others are on their way to becoming Academic Doctors and other professionals.
Elder Okon-Enoh described the experience as a fulfilment of his calling as a teacher, noting that the impact of a teacher goes far beyond the classroom.
He encouraged young teachers and members of the teaching profession to remain focused, dedicated and committed to their responsibilities, stressing the importance of perseverance and consistency in building a meaningful career.
The ceremony featured a rich display of goodwill messages from colleagues, friends and well-wishers, who took turns to celebrate the personality and contributions of Elder Okon-Enoh.
Speakers described him as a jovial, cheerful and good-natured fellow whose warmth and friendliness made him a memorable colleague to many.
His ability to relate freely with people, coupled with his commitment to his duties, was repeatedly highlighted as some of the qualities that endeared him to colleagues and students.
The immediate past Dean, Dr. Elizabeth Betiang, was equally celebrated for her service, leadership and commitment to the School.
The goodwill messages reflected the deep sense of affection, respect and appreciation shared by members of the School for the two honourees.
The send-forth ceremony served not only as a farewell to a retiring staff member but also as a celebration of a legacy built through years of service, mentorship and human development.
For Elder Ephraim Okon-Enoh, retirement marks the closing of one chapter after years of service to the Federal College of Education, Obudu, but the impact of his work continues through the lives of the students and colleagues he influenced.
For Dr. Elizabeth Betiang, the honour stands as a testament to her meritorious service and leadership as Dean of the School.
The event ended on a celebratory note, with members of the School expressing their appreciation to both honourees and wishing Elder Okon-Enoh a fulfilling, healthy and rewarding retirement, while also celebrating Dr. Betiang for her outstanding contributions to the School.
The occasion ultimately underscored the enduring value of service, mentorship and institutional commitment, reminding the College community that while positions and appointments may come to an end, the positive impact made on lives and college remains a lasting legacy.
