FUNAI BUILDS STUDENTS’ CAPACITY TO EXCEL IN GLOBALIZED ECONOMY
As part of the efforts to build the capacities of its students in order to prepare them for the demands of the 21st century economy and ensure that the institution actualizes its dream of becoming a top ranking University in the world, the Federal University Ndufu Alike Ikwo (FUNAI), Ebonyi state recently organized a 2-day workshop with the topic “Challenges and Issues in Education in the 21st Century-The Way Forward”, for her students at the University auditorium.
A section of the students during the workshop
Declaring the workshop open, the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Chinedum Nwajiuba who was represented in the event by the Dean, Student Affairs, Dr. Charles Okoli, noted that the institution was geared towards grooming students with the relevant knowledge to be relevant in a globalized economy. He urged the students to avail themselves of the numerous opportunities being provided by the University to build their intellectual capacities, stressing that the University would continue to prepare her students for the future.
Dean of students’ Affairs, Dr. Charles Okolie admonishing the students
Addressing the students on how to “Curb Youths’ Restiveness on Campus”, Dr. Smart Otuu of the Department of Psychology/Sociology/Criminology and Criminal Justice enjoined them to hold tenaciously to the tenets of 3C’s in all their academic pursuit – ‘Consultation’, ‘Consolidation’ and ‘Confrontation’. He maintained that youth’s restiveness can be curbed by seeking proper information from the constituted authorities and right channels, avoiding unfriendly friends that can lead them to danger, bearing in mind that no criminal when caught, would want to die alone but rather drag his companion into the mess. He further urged them to always make use of the library, read their Bibles and attend fellowships and sporting activities to deter them from social vices.
Expounding the “Techniques and Ethics for Successful Examination”, the Chairman of Examination Committee and Director, Students’ Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES), Dr. Omaka N. Omaka reiterated the commitment of the University towards achieving its vision of world-class status, adding that no individual would be allowed to jeopardize the principles of excellence and integrity which the University are known for.
Dr. Omaka N. Omaka speaking at the event
He admonished the students to ensure they have their identity cards during examinations, adding that they would be checked into examination halls using photo album rather than admit cards previously used. He maintained that these strategies were aimed at curbing impersonations and other forms of examination malpractices. He equally enjoined them to be serious with their studies and exhibit high level of preparedness before examinations, advising them ‘never to underestimate the power of prayer’.
Speaking on “Good Study Habit and Preparation of Functional Reading Timetable”, an educationist, from the Faculty of Education, Dr. Kelechi Duru cautioned the students to be ‘guided by the school timetable and their personal timetables and to pay deep attention to subjects of their study’. He also charged them to form Group Discussions and maintain regular good habits that would assist them in their academics.
The workshop was one of the various ways through which the University authorities are using to prepare and equip her students with the relevant functional knowledge to compete favourably in a globalized economy.