In a major step to strengthen education in Abia State, the Abia State Government (ABSG) has approved the recruitment of new lecturers into Abia State University (ABSU), Uturu. This move is aimed at filling key academic positions in essential departments across the university. The government also approved the purchase of modern engineering equipment worth N800 million for the university, showing a strong commitment to technological advancement and quality education.
These decisions were made during the weekly State Executive Council meeting held at Government House, Umuahia, and chaired by Governor Alex Otti. Speaking to journalists, the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, explained that the new lecturers would help fill gaps in critical courses, ensuring that ABSU maintains high standards of teaching and learning.
Kanu also shared that the Governor has followed through on his promise to renovate the Male Hostel at ABSU. According to him, “The renovation of the Male Hostel is almost completed and will be ready by May.” He added that work has also started on new 5,000-capacity hostels, which will greatly improve accommodation for students.
In another development, the National Universities Commission (NUC) has released the results of the October/November 2024 accreditation exercise. ABSU received full accreditation for several major programmes including Law, Agriculture, Mass Communication, Educational Management, and Planning. This accreditation not only boosts the university’s reputation but also makes it more attractive to prospective students and employers alike.
The ABSG is also improving conditions at the Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic. Staff who had not been promoted since 2008 have now been promoted. “It is instructive to note that this is the first promotion exercise in the Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic since 2008, making it a better morale booster for the institution,” Prince Kanu said.
Another positive development is the ongoing payment of arrears of salaries owed to sacked and resigned staff. This is a key step in restoring trust between the institution and its former employees. Kanu confirmed that the Governor approved this payment.
On academic performance, the polytechnic also recorded excellent results in the 2nd National Institute of Science, Laboratory, and Technology modular practical exams. All 164 students passed in phase 1, while 157 out of 158 students passed in phase 2. “That indicates a success rate of 99%,” Kanu stated, describing it as a strong indicator of academic quality.
The polytechnic has also introduced an online clearance platform to simplify the clearance process for students. This innovation removes the need for physical presence and saves time for students. Kanu said the school is also reviewing its curriculum to include trending courses like Artificial Intelligence, which positions the school for global competitiveness and relevance in the tech-driven world.
In another development, a panel has been inaugurated to investigate the activities of the recently suspended Provost of ASCETA, with construction projects still ongoing in the institution.
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Kanu also revealed that 5,300 teachers who passed a recent recruitment exercise have been approved for employment. A new round of recruitment will begin soon. “The portal will be opened in the next couple of days for the second batch of teachers’ recruitment exercise,” he announced.
These developments are clear signs of the state’s focus on quality education, innovation, and employment, making Abia a preferred destination for academic growth.