…As students celebrate culture, elegance and excellence
By Anthony Uwadiegwu
The Acting Vice Chancellor of Arthur Jarvis University( AJU), in Calabar, Cross River State, Dr. Joe Edet has cautioned students of the institution to stay off all forms of drugs and illegal substances as these could be detrimental to their well-being.
Dr. Edet gave the warning while declaring open activities to mark the 2024/2025 academic session’s students’ week.
The Acting Vice Chancellor emphasized the need for students to maintain a safe and conducive environment as they embarked on an exciting journey of fun, learning, and camaraderie.
“As we embark on this exciting journey of fun, learning, and camaraderie, it is important to maintain a safe and respectful environment.
“You must steer clear of behaviors and substances that could jeopardize our well-being and the harmony of our community.
“I urge everyone to avoid the use of any drugs and illegal substances; these can have devastating effects on your health and future.
“Let’s keep our minds and bodies clear and strong, alcohol abuse must be avoided as excessive drinking can lead to serious consequences, enjoy responsibly, if at all, and always look out for one another,” the Vice Chancellor admonished the students.
The students’ week, which kick-start from the 17th and ended on June 23rd, was marked with a vibrant celebration filled with diverse activities showcasing student talent, culture, and athletics.
The long week event started with a Picnic and board games at the Tourism Garden, where the students enjoyed an afternoon of fun, food, and games, featuring a variety of activities such as table tennis and snooker with an Old School Party on Tuesday.
There was also a Female Football Match between the Black Titans and the Fierce Falcons.
The event, which culminated into a Cultural Day on Thursday, 20th June, displaying AJU’s cultural diversity, saw students dressing in their respective traditional costumes and performed various cultural dances in captivating styles.
The traditional performances that went across the campus and climaxing with vibrant celebrations at the Entrepreneurship Development Center (EDC) highlighted the rich heritage of the Tiv, Efik, Monikim, and Ibibio cultures.
On Friday, June 21, which featured the first ever AJU Marathon, had determined male contestants competing in a highly competitive race around the campus.
At the end of the marathon, Jordan Simplicio, Blaise Anthony, and Effiom Nathaniel emerged as the top three finishers.
Saturday, June 22, 2024, was for Mr. and Miss AJU beauty pageant, which included an award night as well as the celebration of beauty, talent, and achievement.
The event also included catwalk, cultural displays, and a question-and-answer session. Winners were awarded prizes, and the night was a dazzling celebration of student excellence.
A thanksgiving service in appreciation of God’s grace for a successful outing was held on Sunday to bring to an end the remarkable annual celebration of the students in the school.