Practice With Diligence, Resilience, MOUAU VC Advises Engineering Graduates
he Vice-Chancellor of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU), Professor Ursula Ngozi Akanwa, has urged the newly inducted engineering graduates of the university to practice their profession with diligence, resilience, and determination.
Professor Akanwa delivered this message during the 2026 Engineering Graduates Induction and Oath-Taking Ceremony of the College of Engineering and Engineering Technology (CEET).
In her opening remarks, the Vice-Chancellor characterized the induction as a pivotal transition from academic training to professional engagement, highlighting it as a testament to the graduates’ achievements and potential.
She commended COREN and NSE for maintaining high standards in engineering education and for their ongoing recognition of the accomplishments of MOUAU’s engineering faculty and students over the years.
Additionally, she reaffirmed the university’s commitment to delivering outcome-based and transformative engineering education, as well as fostering responsible research and innovation without borders.
According to her, the inductees must serve as exemplary ambassadors of the university as they navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
“Today is not merely another ceremony; it marks the culmination of your academic journey into a professional calling. Remember that you are ambassadors of this University. I urge you to practice your profession with diligence, dignity, resilience, and determination to effect transformative changes in society,” stated Professor Akanwa.
In their respective addresses, the President of COREN, Engr. Professor Sadiq Zubair Abubakar, represented by the Chairman of the South-East Technical Committee of COREN, Engr. P. C. Mgbemena; the President of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, Engr. A. A. Rabiu, represented by the Chairman of the Umuahia Branch, Engr. Chris Nwankwo; and the COREN Registrar, Engr. Professor O. A. U. Uche, represented by the South-East Regional Officer, Engr. Peter Awunde, encouraged the inductees to apply the knowledge they have acquired with discipline and responsibility.
They emphasized that engineering transcends mere profession; it embodies a commitment to addressing societal needs.
They urged the new engineers to utilize their competence, discipline, and innovation in developing sustainable solutions to societal challenges, asserting that an engineering degree from MOUAU serves as a global credential for competence and ethical integrity.
In his welcome address, the Dean of CEET, Engr. Professor Bethrand Nduka Nwankwojike, described the induction as an official launchpad for a new generation of complex problem-solvers and a celebration of CEET-MOUAU’s legacy of producing innovative leaders, which has resulted in securing 16 patents and achieving global recognition.
Professor Nwankwojike urged the inductees to remember that the engineering profession is founded on competence and character, noting that the oath and lapel pin they received symbolize sacred commitments to uphold and monitor professional conduct.
He further remarked that, as graduates of University of Agriculture, they possess the knowledge and capacity to make significant contributions to technological advancement, food security, and sustainable development.
Delivering the keynote lecture, Engr. Tochukwu Clinton Chukwueke, an investor, ASHOKA Fellow, and founder of Clintonel Innovation Centre, called upon the Federal Government to prioritize support for engineers by establishing an enabling environment, implementing sound policies, and providing adequate infrastructure to facilitate their effective contributions to nation-building.
He also encouraged the graduates to recognize opportunities where others perceive challenges and to cultivate strategic relationships that would enhance their professional development and impact.
The highlight of the ceremony was the administration of the 10-point Pupil Engineer’s Oath and the Engineers’ Affirmation, during which the graduates pledged to uphold the principles of the engineering profession, commit to continuing professional development (CPD), engage in experiential learning, and complete the mandatory one-year internship.
They also vowed to promote sustainability and public safety, and to practice their profession with skill, conscience, and dignity for the betterment of humanity.
Iheokoronye ElPrince Chimeremeze of the Department of Computer Engineering emerged as the overall best graduating student, achieving a 4.75 CGPA.
He received an award alongside other outstanding graduates who excelled in their respective departments.
A total of 742 graduates were formally inducted into the engineering profession by the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) and the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE).
