MOUAU celebrates 30th anniversary, decries non-release of take-off grant
Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike,(MOUAU) Abia, has appealed to the Federal Government to release the take-off grant that was meant for it since 30 years ago that it was established.
The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Maduebibisi Iwe, made the appeal on Tuesday, while briefing the press on the occasion of the 30th Anniversary and Founder’s Day celebration of the university.
Iwe, who reiterated the call for the urgency in funding, said that the institution was one of those that commenced operations without an initial government grant.
According to him, compounded by our rural location, the provision of essential amenities is a daunting task, giving the elevated costs associated with development in such settings.
Reflecting on the journey, Iwe said that the university had made substantial progress in infrastructural development, despite the absence of a take-off grant.
He expressed optimism that the government would prioritise the university’s take-off grant, recognisng its pivotal role in driving agricultural education and development.
“From humble beginnings, the university has expanded its academic and administrative structure.
“Today, it boasts of 11 Colleges, two Schools, numerous Centres, and Directorates, each contributing to a diverse and vibrant academic community,” he said.
Iwe, who assumed office on March 1, 2021, as the sixth vice-chancellor, said that the university’s commitment to academic excellence, research, innovation and community development remained steadfast.
The vice-chancellor disclosed that a lot of activities had been lined up for the ceremony that would be rounded off on Friday.
He further said that the high point of the celebration would be the maiden Public Lecture in honour of a one time Premier of the defunct Easter Nigeria, late Dr Michael Okpara, whom the university was named after.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that MOUAU was established by the promulgation of Decree 48 of 1992 under the leadership of the then military President, Gen. Ibrahim Babangida, and began academic activities in May 1993.
The purpose was to address the pressing challenges of food security and advance agricultural knowledge and related issues.(NAN)
