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UNICROSS Medical Biochemistry Graduates Win International Scholarships, Inspire Students

 



Graduates of the Department of Medical Biochemistry, University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), Okuku Campus, have secured prestigious international scholarships for postgraduate studies in the United Kingdom, China and Taiwan, underscoring the academic potential of the University’s alumni and the opportunities available for advanced studies and research.

The achievements, highlighted in a report by Dr. Ati, Boniface Unimke of the Department, reflect the graduates’ academic excellence and determination to pursue further studies at internationally recognised institutions.

Among the graduates are Mrs. Francisca Timothy, who has commenced a Doctor of Philosophy (DPhil) programme in Biochemistry at the University of Oxford, United Kingdom; Sunday Chukwuebuka, who secured a scholarship for a Master’s degree in Public Health at Tzu Chi University, Taiwan; Clancy Otu Bush, who completed a fully funded Master’s programme in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (UCAS), China; and Abraham Ogochukwu, who also secured admission and a scholarship for postgraduate studies at the same Chinese university.

The report, originally shared on the WhatsApp platform of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), UNICROSS Branch, attributes these achievements to academic excellence, dedication and mentorship.

Timothy, a 2018 First Class graduate of UNICROSS, previously received the Mandela Rhodes Foundation Scholarship to pursue an MSc in Biochemistry at Stellenbosch University, South Africa, where she graduated with distinction (Cum Laude). She is now a Shaun Johnson Memorial Scholar at Oxford, researching how immune cells combat bacterial infections and how their natural antibacterial processes can be enhanced.

Reflecting on her journey, Timothy acknowledged the role of mentorship, meaningful relationships and opportunities in her academic progression. She encouraged students to think beyond their immediate environment, build supportive relationships with lecturers and peers, and take advantage of opportunities that could advance their ambitions.

Bush, a 2021 graduate, obtained the CAS-ANSO Scholarship for a three-year Master’s programme in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at UCAS following his national service. His research training at the Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology broadened his experience in metabolic and behavioural neuroscience

He expressed gratitude to lecturers who contributed to his development, particularly Dr Melvin Ugwu, his undergraduate research supervisor; Prof. Asuk Atamgba; Dr Azubuike Okafor; Dr Dasofunjo Kayode; and Dr Peter Ujong.

While acknowledging challenges relating to laboratory facilities, equipment and staffing during his undergraduate studies, Bush expressed hope for continued improvements in the department’s infrastructure, staffing and practical training opportunities. He urged students to develop relevant skills, seek mentorship and pursue scholarships and research opportunities, adding that present circumstances should not determine their future aspirations.

Another graduate, Ifunanya G. Eze, who obtained her degree in Medical Biochemistry in 2021, has demonstrated the diverse career paths open to UNICROSS graduates. She holds a Master’s degree in Cyberpsychology from Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, Russia, and is the founder of The Almond Brand and Valexx Pro Technology.

Eze advised students to remain confident and open to new possibilities, stressing that a university degree should serve as a foundation for growth rather than a limitation. She encouraged them to learn from setbacks, persevere through challenges and continue developing their potential.

The graduates conveyed their respective messages and advice to current UNICROSS students through their former Lecturer, Dr Azubuike Okafor, encouraging them to approach their academic pursuits with determination, embrace opportunities for growth and remain confident in their capacity to achieve beyond their present circumstances.

Although the graduates achieved these milestones before Prof. Francisca Bassey assumed office as Vice Chancellor, their accomplishments align with her vision of positioning UNICROSS as a centre of academic excellence, research and opportunities for students and graduates to thrive locally and internationally.

- UNICROSS Media Team

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