13/05/2026
IAUE LAUDED FOR ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE
The Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, GSSRS, has lauded the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Ignatius Ajuru University of Education (IAUE), Rt. Hon. Chief Dr. Chinyere Igwe; Council Members; the Vice-Chancellor of IAUE, Professor Okechuku Onuchuku; Management, Senate, and Staff for sustaining academic excellence, discipline, and human capital development over the years.
Speaking during the 44th Convocation Ceremony for higher degrees on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at the university auditorium, the Visitor to the University observed that IAUE has continued to distinguish itself as one of the leading institutions of higher learning in the country. He praised IAUE for changing the perceived narrative of the ivory tower and for demonstrating dedication, perseverance, and commitment to excellence.
He stated that the Convocation Ceremony is a remarkable milestone in the life of the prestigious institution and symbolises not just the conferment of degrees but also moments of reflection, celebration, and renewed commitment to the ideals of learning, leadership, service, and nation-building. It reminds society of the vital role education plays in shaping individuals, communities, and nations.
The State Chief Executive commended the visible transformation of the University and urged IAUE to continue upholding excellence in teaching and learning. He encouraged staff to continue making sacrifices that would distinguish the University in the future.
He advised the graduands to be good ambassadors, give back to IAUE, and pursue hard work, excellence, honesty, and discipline, while contributing meaningfully to society.
While assuring the commitment of the State Government to policies and programmes that would promote access to quality education, research, innovation, infrastructural development, and the welfare of staff and students, Governor Siminalayi Fubara reiterated that the State Government is committed to quality education and human capital development.
The Governor was represented by the Deputy Governor, Professor Ngozi Nma Odu.
In his address, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of IAUE, Rt. Hon. Chief Dr. Chinyere Igwe, Esq., reminded all that success is not measured solely by material gain but by the lives lifted, injustices corrected, knowledge disseminated, and hope restored.
While urging graduands to find fulfilment in service, excellence in their craft, and joy in the communities they build, he called on all to join hands with IAUE in partnership to fulfil the mandate of producing leaders who will transform society.
Also speaking, the Vice-Chancellor of IAUE, Professor Okechuku Onuchuku, informed that his administration had promoted a total of 150 academic staff to professorial level — 63 to full Professor and 87 to Reader. He added that the University sponsored over 80 departmental, faculty, and association conferences, 48 inaugural lectures, and several teaching and non-teaching staff for internal and external conferences and workshops.
Professor Onuchuku explained that the two-instalment payment plan for school charges per session, introduced to lighten the burden on indigent students facing harsh economic realities, has been well received by students and parents. He appealed for the humane policy to be continued by the University for the foreseeable future.
A total of 1,815 students graduated, comprising 618 Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) candidates, 774 Master’s degree recipients, and 423 Postgraduate Diploma holders.
Dr. Ngozi Okiridu
Public Relations Officer
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