IAUE Senate Approves New Institute for Peace and Conflict Studies

The Ignatius Ajuru University of Education (IAUE) Institute for Peace and Conflict Studies has received approval from the university’s Senate. This significant development was announced during the statutory Senate meeting held on Wednesday, May 29, 2024, at the Postgraduate Hall. The proposal, presented by Director of Academic Planning, Professor Joseph Kinanee, received enthusiastic support.

New Institute for Peace and Conflict Studies

The Senate’s Chairman, Professor Okechuku Onuchuku, confirmed that a Director would soon be appointed to head the Institute. The institute awaits resource verification from the National Universities Commission (NUC), alongside other programmes. This new initiative aims to foster understanding and resolution of conflicts, contributing significantly to peace-building efforts.

Recognition of New Professors

Professor Onuchuku also welcomed newly promoted Professors attending the Senate meeting for the first time. He encouraged them to engage actively in university functions and continue publishing academic journals. By sharing their thoughts, opinions, and ideas, they can mentor the younger generation, teaching them essential survival skills in these challenging times.

Commendation for Academic Contributions

The Acting Vice-Chancellor praised the Dean of Postgraduate School, Professor Good Wilson, and the Associate Dean, Professor Chibuzor Nwobueze, for their efforts in producing two valuable journals. He encouraged them to make this a yearly practice to enrich the academic community further.

NDDC Projects and Sustainability Initiatives

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has mobilised resources to construct a Corpers’ Lodge and a Science Laboratory. The Acting Vice-Chancellor called for cooperation to realise these projects and proposed the installation of solar panels in classrooms, offices, and hostels to reduce the university’s high power costs. He urged those with influential contacts to help attract more projects to the institution.

Addressing Student Attendance Issues

Professor Sam Otamiri raised concerns about student attendance, noting that many students only appear in large numbers during examinations. He highlighted a case where he taught 200 students, but 700 showed up for exams. To combat this, Professor Onuchuku advised that students should register their courses at the beginning of each semester, including providing passport photographs for easy identification. This measure aims to prevent impersonation during exams.

Preventing Academic Extortion

Professor Onuchuku emphasized that only students who register and attend classes should be allowed to sit for exams. He cautioned lecturers against attaching financial requirements to the registration process or making textbook purchases mandatory for registration. He urged academic staff to support the system and avoid any form of extortion, as such practices negatively impact the institution.

Support for French Language Students

Dr. Mrs Juliet Elikwu, Head of the Department of French and International Studies, expressed gratitude to the Acting Vice-Chancellor for the support given to French Language students in Togo, Badagry, and Ivory Coast. This support has made their stay comfortable and conducive to learning.

Fire Safety Measures

To prevent fire outbreaks, Professor Chibuzor Nwobueze urged staff to ensure all electrical appliances are turned off before leaving their offices. The Senate Chairman directed Departmental Heads to appoint staff responsible for ensuring compliance with this directive daily. Meanwhile, a student who recently caused a fire in the female hostel by cooking outside the designated kitchen area will face disciplinary action.

Approval of Academic Results

The Senate approved all the results presented by the Dean of Postgraduate School, Faculty Deans, and the Director of the Centre for Continuing Education (CCE). This approval marks another step in maintaining the university’s high academic standards.