Former Vice Chancellor of Rivers State University, Professor Barineme B. Fakae, has reflected on a lifetime of service, dedication and impact as he marked his 70th birthday with a colloquium and book launch held in his honour.
Professor Fakae, who bowed out of the university as a lecturer upon attaining the mandatory retirement age, expressed gratitude for the recognition accorded him at the event held at the Nyesom Ezenwo Wike Senate Building, Rivers State University, Port Harcourt, over the week.
The celebrant noted that despite prevailing challenges, he remains committed to contributing meaningfully to societal development and uplifting humanity.
He cautioned against destructive tendencies in society, stressing that no system or individual thrives by undermining its own foundation, just as no parasite survives by killing its host.
A major highlight of the event was the unveiling of a book titled Priest of Three Temples, published in honour of the former Vice Chancellor in recognition of his contributions to academia and society.
In his remarks, the Vice Chancellor of Rivers State University, Professor Isaac Zeb-Obipi, commended the immense contributions of Professor Fakae to the growth and technological advancement of the institution.
Zeb-Obipi said this during the 70th birthday celebration, colloquium and book launch in honour of the former Vice Chancellor at the university’s Senate Building.
He stated that Professor Fakae uplifted the university at a time when the world was yet to fully appreciate the benefits of Information and Communication Technology (ICT), noting that his leadership launched the institution into the digital age.
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The Vice Chancellor emphasized that the former helmsman made the university ICT-driven during his tenure, describing the move as visionary and foundational to its present status.
He added that history and providence would remain kind to the celebrant for his foresight and commitment to repositioning the university for global relevance.
According to him, the legacy of Professor Fakae continues to reflect in the university’s academic excellence and administrative efficiency.
Also speaking, Chairman of the occasion, High Chief Dumo Lulu-Briggs, described the celebrant as an epitome of service to humanity and a man of commendable character.
Lulu-Briggs noted that Professor Fakae’s life embodies discipline, integrity and a deep sense of responsibility to society, adding that his contributions extend beyond the university community to various sectors of national life.
The theme of the event was ” Fulfilling Life’s Purpose Through Service”,
Eze Princewill
