By Lawrence Mpama
The golden Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar (UNICAL), Prof. Florence Banku Obi, has lauded the media for their unquantifiable support in publicising the programs and projects of the University. She used the occasion of the media briefing to outlined the week-long event of activities to mark the University’s Golden Jubilee and 37th Convocation Ceremony at the Senate council of the institution Monday.
In her words, “I deeply appreciate your partnership, goodwill, and commitment to taking UNICAL to the world. This synergy must be sustained even beyond my tenure,” she stated.
Prof. Obi averred the significance of the milestone achievement, describing it as a testament to five decades of academic excellence, resilience, and contributions to national development. The celebrations commences with a symbolic “Victory Walk” led by the Golden Vice Chancellor from the university’s main gate, signifying the institution’s triumphs over the years.
The event will continue on tuesday, March 18th, with an Inter-Denominational Service that will be held at the UNICAL International Conference Centre at 10 a.m, followed by the Convocation Research Fair and Exhibition at 11 a.m same day
On Wednesday, March 19th, the focus will be on Alumni Reunion Activities, with a meeting of the Convocation (Alumni) at 9 a.m. and an interactive session at Malabor Republic, a symbolic gathering of past and present students.
One important major highlight on thursday, March 20th, is the 50th Anniversary and Convocation Lecture, to be delivered by one of the alumni, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, at the Calabar International Convention Centre (CICC).
The theme of the lecture is, “Our Gown in Town and in Cyberspace: Sustainable and Human-Centred Education, the Mandate of Our University, 2025–2075,” and will be chaired by Prof. Ekanem Ikpi Braide, former Vice Chancellor of CRUTECH and ex-President of the Nigeria Academy of Science. That same day, there will be an Awards and Fundraising Ceremony, aimed at recognizing distinguished alumni and securing funds for infrastructural expansion ahead of NUGA 2026.
And on day five, Friday, March 21st, will be dedicated to the commissioning of key projects in the University like the University Hall of Fame and Multipurpose Auditorium, College of Education Complex, and the fire Service Station. Afterward, award of First Degrees, Masters, and Diplomas, with 13,610 students set to graduate. A breakdown reveals 66 First Class graduates, 3,054 Second Class Upper, 7,450 Second Class Lower, 925 Third Class, and seven in the Pass category.
The big boys day is on Saturday, March 22, where the university will confer Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degrees, Honorary Doctorates, and the Investiture of Emeritus Professors.
Those to receive Honorary Doctorate Degrees are:
H.E.Sen.Prince Bassey Edet Otu – Doctorate of Political Science
Hon. Justice Emmanuel Akomaye Agim, JSC– Doctorate Of Law
H.E. Nyesom Ezenwo Wike – Doctorate of Political Science
Mrs. Ekaette Unoma Godswill Akpabio – Doctorate of Education Management
Prince Arthur I.Eze -Doctorate of Business
Maj. Gen. (rtd.) Moses Bisong Obi – Doctorate of Peace & Conflict Studies
Those to be conferred with the prestigious Professor of Emeritus are :- Prof Eme Effiom Osim, Prof. Ekanem Ikpi Braide, and Prof. Chris Nwamuo in recognition of their outstanding contributions in the field of academia.
The climax of the week long activities will be on Sunday, March 23rd, with a Thanksgiving Service at St. Paul’s Parish, University of Calabar, at 9 a.m.
The Golden Vice Chancellor, Prof Obi, this being her final convocation as Vice Chancellor, reaffirmed the university’s commitment to producing graduates equipped to compete globally. She stated that, “As an institution, we remain focused on academic excellence, research, and community impact,”
