The Acting Vice-Chancellor of the Rivers State University (RSU), Nkpolu-Oroworukwo, Port Harcourt, Prof. Opuenebo Binya Owei, has commended the Faculty of Engineering of the institution for instituting an Honours Award to appreciate those who have contributed to the development of the Faculty.
The Acting Vice-Chancellor who gave the commendation during the maiden edition of the 2019 Distinguished Honours Award Ceremony held on Tuesday 3rd December 2019 at the University’s Amphitheatre, noted that the award is in line with the tradition of the University which is anchored in the promotion of excellence and hard work.
Prof. Owei while congratulating the awardees on their meritorious awards, charged the staff who are still in active service, to emulate the lifestyle of the awardees, adding that they should strive to maintain the tradition of the University and uphold the rules and regulations, which she said has continued to make the University community outstanding over other institutions.
She called on the staff to be happy of choosing a career in the University, stressing that the University is the most dignified institution in the world with its unique pattern of conducting her specialized programmes.
Earlier in his address, the Dean of the Faculty, Prof. Christopher Ahiakwo said that when he assumed duty as Dean, he found out that his predecessors contributed so much to the growth and progress of the Faculty but were yet to be appreciated.
He said the significance of the Distinguished Honours Award, which according to him was endorsed by the Faculty Board, is to recognize the contributions of the past leaders of the Faculty and also some individuals in the industry, adding that the initiative will inspire staff and students to understand that hard work pays.
Those who were honoured include the Acting Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Opuenebo Binya Owei, former Vice-Chancellor and former Dean Faculty of Engineering, Prof. Steve Odi-Owei; former Acting Vice-Chancellor and Dean of the Faculty, Engr. Prof. J. G. Chinwah; and former Deans of the Faculty, Engr. Prof. F. J. K. Ideriah and Engr. Prof. M. J. Ayotamuno.
The awardees from the industry include Dr. Bello Aliyu Gusau, Executive Secretary, PTDF; Engr. Chief G. Massari and Ibifuro Asawo, CEO of Cinfores Limited.
Responding on behalf of the awardees, Prof. Steve Odi-Owei thanked the Dean of the Faculty and the Acting Vice-Chancellor of the University for the award, recalling that during his days, the University’s Senate was a school where HODs, Deans and Professors go to learn.
The Award Ceremony was graced by the Principal Offices of the University, Deans of Faculty, Directors of Institutes and Centres, Heads of Departments, staff and students.
