By Emeka Chiaghanam
Alumni return with renewed commitment to support
their alma mater
Management outlines bold vision for transformation
and future expansion
Both sides agree on deeper collaboration to drive
progress
The
Alumni Association of Nwafor Orizu College of Education Nsugbe has
pledged to work closely with the institution’s management to drive development
and strengthen its long-standing reputation as one of Nigeria’s respected
teacher training colleges.
The commitment came during a strategic meeting held at the
college between the Alumni Executive Council and the newly appointed Provost,
Prof. Victor Ndirika, alongside members of his management team. The engagement
focused on how both sides can join forces to reposition the school for greater
impact and ensure it continues to stand tall in Nigeria’s educational
landscape.
For the alumni, the visit was more than a routine courtesy call. It carried emotional weight and a deep sense of responsibility. It was a return to familiar ground, a place where personal and professional foundations were first laid, and where a shared identity continues to bind generations together.
A homecoming filled with pride and reflection
Leading the delegation, the pioneer National President of
the Alumni Association, Prince Emeka Ernest Oramadike, a 1987 graduate of
Accounts and Economics, spoke with visible pride and reflection as he revisited
memories of his time at the college. He described the institution as a strong
foundation that has shaped the lives, values, and careers of countless former
students now contributing across different sectors of society.
According to him, the discipline, mentorship, and commitment of lecturers and administrators over the years have continued to serve as a guiding light for alumni. He stressed that the college remains a “bedrock of excellence” that must not only be preserved but also strengthened and expanded for future generations who will pass through its gates.
Calls for stronger systems and
deeper student connection
Prince Oramadike also commended the visible infrastructural
improvements within the institution, noting that the transformation of the
physical environment reflects a renewed sense of progress. He particularly
praised the administration of Anambra State Governor Prof. Chukwuma Soludo for
the road network upgrades around the campus, describing it as a development
that enhances access, learning conditions, and the overall image of the school.
Beyond commendation, however, he used the opportunity to
advocate for stronger institutional systems to deepen alumni engagement. He
urged the college management to establish a structured and seamless process
that would automatically enrol graduating students into the Alumni Association.
In his view, such a system would help build a more connected, organised, and
active alumni network capable of contributing meaningfully to the institution’s
growth.
He also reflected on the vibrant social life that
characterised student days in the 1980s, suggesting that modern students should
be encouraged to experience a more engaging campus environment that fosters
unity, identity, and lasting relationships.
Provost unveils vision for
university status and expansion
In his response, Provost Prof. Victor Ndirika welcomed the
alumni delegation with optimism and appreciation. He assured them that his
administration is firmly committed to elevating the college to greater heights,
with a long-term vision of transforming it into a full-fledged university.
He explained that deliberate strategies and developmental
programmes are already being implemented to achieve this goal. He emphasised
that collaboration with key stakeholders, particularly the alumni, would play a
critical role in shaping the success of these plans.
Agricultural ventures open new
opportunities for growth
Prof. Ndirika also drew attention to the institution’s
growing agricultural ventures, which include poultry, piggery, goat farming,
fish production, and extensive crop cultivation across its vast fertile land.
He noted that these initiatives are not only designed for practical training
but also present viable investment opportunities for partners willing to
support or expand them.
He encouraged the Alumni Association to remain actively
engaged in the affairs of the college, describing them as a vital pillar in the
institution’s ongoing transformation.
Call for unity within the
alumni structure
Contributing during the meeting, the National Legal Adviser
of the Alumni Association, Barrister Nnadiume Awforkansi, raised concerns about
the need to harmonise membership structures within the association. He
specifically pointed to the differences between NCE and degree programme
graduates, calling for a unified framework that would strengthen cohesion and
prevent division within the body.
He emphasised that inclusiveness would enhance the
association’s effectiveness and ensure that all former students feel fully
represented under one umbrella.
Management expresses confidence
in partnership
In his closing remarks, the College Bursar, Tony Aniebo,
expressed confidence in the emerging partnership between the alumni and
management. He stated that the collaboration would open new doors for
institutional advancement and help reinforce administrative efficiency. He
assured the delegation that the college would deploy all necessary systems to
improve communication and strengthen alumni engagement.
Other members of the management present included the Acting
Registrar, Mrs. Edith Nwoye; Acting College Librarian, Dr. Mrs. Chioma
Azubuike; and Deputy Director of Works, Engr. Nnamdi Onyili. The Alumni
delegation also featured Vice Presidents UBAKA Onwuanibe and Ozo Hon Emma Onoh,
alongside other officials.
Shared optimism for a stronger
future
The meeting concluded on a hopeful and forward-looking note,
with both the alumni and management agreeing that sustained collaboration,
shared vision, and active participation would unlock new opportunities for
growth, innovation, and long-term institutional excellence.
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