The alumni association of the University of Uyo has formally presented an upgraded lecture hall with seating for 550 people to the university's Vice Chancellor, Professor Christopher Ekong.
The transfer event, which also marked the organization's first anniversary, took place at the university's central campus on Monday.
The head of the organization, Mr. Ekerete Adiaiduo, mentioned that upon taking control of the venue, it had significantly declined from its previous state, highlighting that the total renovation, which included a seating capacity for 550 people, was entirely financed by the association.
He stated, "The highlight today is the ELF Lecture Hall, which has now been renovated to match the level expected from a top-tier institution. When we acquired this space, it was far below its true capabilities."
Currently, boasting a capacity for 550 seats, and undergoing a full structural and artistic renovation supported by this Association, we present it to the university as an offering of affection and duty.
This initiative goes beyond mere symbolism; it represents a clear implementation of the infrastructure component outlined in our plan, serving as proof that graduates can create opportunities, rather than simply participate in gatherings.
He pointed out several initiatives implemented at the university, such as resolving the long-standing issue with transcript delivery that had caused stress for students, alumni, and organizational partners. He also mentioned that the association worked to reinstate electricity supply to the Examinations and Records Department, which had been experiencing unstable functioning.
"We introduced a generator to boost power availability for that facility, improving performance and easing tensions that had persisted for an extended period. Graduates who required their documents to seek international prospects could finally feel at ease," he stated.
Adiaiduo revealed that the organization has started closing the gap between the institution and its graduates spread around the world, mentioning that efforts are being made to connect UNIUYO alumni living abroad with the aim of utilizing their knowledge, connections, and support for the university's growth.
Prof. Ekong thanked the graduates for their act, while also urging more support to tackle financial shortfalls within Nigeria's university system.
He expressed sorrow that the funding provided to public universities in the nation is insufficient to sustain activities and ensure high-quality teaching.
He stated, "Nigerian universities continue to receive inadequate funding. Over the last four years, the capital budget allocated to these institutions has been below 10 percent. The universities lack sufficient funds, yet federal authorities visit annually to take 25 percent of the Internal Revenue generated locally. If this amount isn't provided, it gets deducted from your staff expenses—money that could otherwise be utilized for different purposes. This is the current scenario we face."
Renowned speaker and ex-Deputy Vice-Chancellor at the University of Abuja, Professor Philip Afaha, delivered a talk entitled 'From Outstanding Minds to Significant Influence: The Contribution of Alumni Groups to School Development and Country Progress,' cautioning the organization not to exploit their position to pressure university authorities regarding tenders, job placements, and admissions, which occurs in certain institutions.
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