Rivers State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Peters Nwagor, has called on the management of Ignatius Ajuru University of Education (IAUE) to strengthen research, embrace digital transformation and improve graduate employability.
Nwagor made the call on Thursday during a familiarisation visit to the university’s Rumuolumeni campus in Port Harcourt.
He said IAUE plays an important role in shaping the state’s education sector, particularly because of its mandate to train teachers and develop human capital.
The Commissioner urged the university to go beyond meeting the basic requirements of the National Universities Commission, NUC, and instead focus on measurable improvements in its programmes, facilities and academic output.
He also encouraged the institution to build stronger links with industries, professional bodies and the private sector to create more opportunities for students and graduates through internships, entrepreneurship and employment.
Also see: OSPAC Arrests Suspect After Shooting At Ignatius Ajuru University
Nwagor stressed the need for accountability in the use of public funds, saying government investments in the university should produce “measurable impact.”
He assured the university of government’s willingness to consider areas requiring intervention, subject to available resources and government policy.
Earlier, the Acting Vice Chancellor of IAUE, Prof. Okechukwu Onuchukwu, said the security breach reported at the university the previous day had been contained, adding that “no life was lost.”
Onuchukwu appealed to the state government to provide a permanent perimeter fence to improve security. He also requested additional classrooms and a staff complex.
He disclosed that the university had installed solar lighting systems in its hostels despite limited resources.
The Commissioner was accompanied by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Dr. Mina Tele Ikuru, directors and other stakeholders.
