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UNICAL @ 50: VC Unveils Activities for 37th Convocation, Honours Wike, Otu, Arthur Eze, Others

 


The Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar (UNICAL), Prof. Florence Banku Obi, has outlined the activities marking the institution’s Golden Jubilee and 37th Convocation Ceremony, a week-long event scheduled to run from Monday, March 17, to Sunday, March 23, 2025.

Speaking at a press conference held at the Council Chambers of the University, Prof. Obi noted the significance of the milestone, describing it as a testament to five decades of academic excellence, resilience, and contributions to national development.

She lauded the media for their unwavering support in projecting UNICAL’s achievements and called for continued collaboration.

 "I deeply appreciate your partnership, goodwill, and commitment to taking UNICAL to the world. This synergy must be sustained even beyond my tenure," she said.

The celebrations commence today with a symbolic “Victory Walk” led by the Vice Chancellor from the university’s main gate, signifying the institution’s triumphs over the years.

On Tuesday, March 18, an Inter-Denominational Service will be held at the UNICAL International Conference Centre at 10 a.m., followed by the Convocation Research Fair and Exhibition at 11 a.m.

Wednesday, March 19, will focus on Alumni Reunion Activities, with a meeting of the Convocation (Alumni) at 9 a.m. and an interactive session at Malabor Republic, a symbolic gathering of past and present students.

A major highlight on Thursday, March 20, is the 50th Anniversary and Convocation Lecture, to be delivered by the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, at the Calabar International Convention Centre (CICC). 

The lecture, themed “Our Gown in Town and in Cyberspace: Sustainable and Human-Centred Education, the Mandate of Our University, 2025–2075,” will be chaired by Prof. Ekanem Ikpi Braide, former Vice Chancellor of CRUTECH and ex-President of the Nigeria Academy of Science.

The day will also feature an Awards and Fundraising Ceremony, aimed at recognizing distinguished alumni and securing funds for infrastructural expansion ahead of NUGA 2026.

Friday, March 21, is dedicated to the Award of First Degrees, Masters, and Diplomas, with 13,610 students set to graduate. A breakdown reveals 66 First Class graduates, 3,054 Second Class Upper, 7,450 Second Class Lower, 925 Third Class, and seven in the Pass category. Prior to the ceremony, key university projects, including the Hall of Fame and Multipurpose Auditorium, College of Education Complex, and a Fire Service Station, will be commissioned.

On Saturday, March 22, the university will confer Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degrees, Honorary Doctorates, and the Investiture of Emeritus Professors.

Among those to receive Honorary Doctorate Degrees are:

✓H.E. Nyesom Ezenwo Wike – D. Political Science

✓H.E. Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu – D. Political Science

✓Hon. Justice Emmanuel Akomaye Agim, JSC – D. Laws

✓Mrs. Ekaette Unoma Godswill Akpabio – D. Education Management

✓Maj. Gen. (rtd.) Moses Bisong Obi – D. Peace & Conflict Studies

✓Prince Arthur I. Eze – D. Business Management

Additionally, Prof. Ekanem Ikpi Braide, Prof. Eme Effiom Osim, and Prof. Chris Nwamuo will be conferred with the prestigious Emeritus Professorship in recognition of their outstanding contributions to academia.

The convocation events will culminate on Sunday, March 23, with a Thanksgiving Service at St. Paul’s Parish, University of Calabar, at 9 a.m.

Obi, in what will be her final convocation as Vice Chancellor, reaffirmed the university’s commitment to producing graduates equipped to compete globally. "As an institution, we remain focused on academic excellence, research, and community impact," she said.

She thanked stakeholders for their support and called for greater investment in the university’s future.

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