…seeks Senate President’s intervention
By Shadrach Okon
The leadership of University of Uyo Alumni Association has lamented over the delay in the release of take-off grant for University of Uyo, 33 years after the institution came into existence.
Rt Hon. Onofiok Luke the National Alumni President of the institution while speaking yesterday in Uyo during the first alumni reunion of graduates of the university lamented that the delay has hampered efficient developmental programmes in the institution.
The National President who acknowledged the important role of the institution in man power training for the country and the global community, sought the intervention of the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio in advocating for the University at the federal executive council.
Speaking on the theme of the reunion, “Drawing from Town to the Gown,” the National President said the theme emphasizes the symbiotic relationship between the University of Uyo and the macro society to bridge the gap between academic excellence and societal impact.
“According to him, “This year’s reunion, theme Drawing from Town to the Gown,” captures the essence of the alumni ‘s collective mission. It emphasizes the symbiotic relationship between the University of Uyo and the larger Nigerian society, reminding us of our role as alumni to bridge the gap between academic excellence and societal impact.As we connect, reflect, and celebrate today, let us also commit to leveraging our diverse experiences and resources to enrich both our alma mater and the communities we serve. Together, we can ensure that the knowledge, values, and opportunities nurtured within these walls continue to transform lives beyond them.”
Earlier in his remarks, the governor of Akwa Ibom State, Governor Umo Eno, an alumnus of the institution highlighted some of his contributions to the university to include intervening in the construction of internal roads in the university and provision of basic infrastructures in the institution to aide learning among others.
The governor who was represented at the event by the Deputy Governor, Senator (Dr) Akon Eyakenyi, Governor Eno, an alumnus of Uniuyo, said that alumni play an important role in fostering development of their alma mater, noting that abandoning one’s alma mater after graduation is akin to pushing down the ladder after using it to ascend heights.
The event which climaxed with the award of ‘Eminent Alumnus Award’ by the University of Uyo Alumni Association to Governor Umo Eno also featured a panel session where imputs where gathered from some of the alumni of the institution on how to draw support for the institution from all the alumni of University engaged in various life endeavors across the globe.
