Oko rector celebrates 100 days of steady progress, says ‘We’ve come to serve’
By: Ijeoma Sandra, Nnewi.
It was exactly 100 days of glorious emergence of the substantive Rector, Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Anambra State, Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie, who was appointed by His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR on 4th of February 2025.
Awuzie, who has worked assiduously to bring the institution to limelight, has reiterated her commitment to serve, rebuild trust, strengthen academic excellence, build infrastructure and restore the dignity and pride of the great institution during a press briefing held on 29th of May, 2025 at the institution.
She noted that the early days of her administration were challenging and deeply inspiring, adding that her faith in resilience, creativity, and the immense potential that resides within the institution have been keyed to her successful story.
The Rector has worked hard in delivering her 12-point agenda outlined during her inaugural address.
She enunciated her contributions recorded under each thematic pillar of the 12-point agenda for the growth of the institution.
Awuzie began with Human Resources Development and Staff Welfare, and she said her tenure has been marked by remarkable strides in human resources development and Staff welfare. She demonstrated her deep commitment to creating a motivated, productive, and inclusive workforce in the Polytechnic.
She said her tenure has prioritized Academic Reinvention and Programme Development, and she revealed that they have initiated far-reaching reforms aimed at redefining the institution’s academic trajectory.
Awuzie disclosed that they have established several novel academic programmes to expand the academic horizons of the Polytechnic.
She aslo said her administration accommodated students’ welfare,revealing that in her compassionate move,she approved 7% reduction in school fees aimed at reducing financial burden on the students and their families.
Awuzie boldly said that her administration has taken bold reforms that have succeeded in fostering discipline, anti-cultism and security, academic integrity, relationship with Stakeholders,financial transformation, infrastructure development, among others.
She appreciated God Almighty for his guidance and grace throughout the journey, His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, for approving her appointment as the substantive Rector of Federal Polytechnic, Oko,Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa for his steadfast support and the pivotal roles he played in facilitating the process, entire leadership and officials of the Federal Ministry of Education for their diligence, professionalism and commitment to excellence.
Awuzie also expressed her profound gratitude to the Chairman of the Governing Council, Distinguished Senator Barnabas Gemade, OFR and the esteemed members of the Council.
“We have tried to demonstrate that positive change is possible in the Federal Polytechnic Oko.Now that it is confirmed,we can quickly engage in the detailed implementation of the 12-point agenda. It is with great joy and firm optimism that I welcome you once again not just to celebrate the victories of 100 days ,but to cast a visionary gaze into the future,a future of boundless promise, transformation, and renewed academic glory for the Federal Polytechnic, Oko.
“Having laid a solid foundation in just 100 days,marked by passion, inclusiveness, and transformative result, it is time to journey forward with confidence” she added
The Rector affirmatively said in the next four years and eight month, under the 12-point agenda, she would be devoted to consolidation, expansion,modernization, and ultimately,transformation,assuring the institution her readiness to serve to reclaim the institution’s rightful place as a hub of innovation, excellence, and national relevance.
The celebration was power packed with several novel activities which included; free medical outreach for the host community,Oko at the Civic Center,a visit to Chinonso Hospital,Oko where she paid some indigent patients hospital bills and donated some palliatives,commissioning of security post 1,2 and 3,guests house, Polytechnic press,Polytechnic bakery and bottle water factory by the Honourable Minister of Education,Dr.Maruf Alausa and awards presentation.
