By Ovat Abeng
There was laud jubilation at the Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU) Igbariam, Anambra State, as many staff and students of the Institution bags various outstanding performance awards.
The Varsity management also honoured the Chief of Staff to governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, Mr. Ernest Ezeajughi, the Lawmaker representing Anoacha two Stste Constituency, Hon Ejike Okechukwu, the lawmaker representing Anambra East State Constituency, Hon Obi Nweke, the Managing Director of Anambra State ICT Agency, Mr. Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata, ACTDA boss, Hon Ossy Onuko, Paul Okafor and others for their various contributions to the growth and development of the University.
The awards, according to correspondent, were presented to them by the acting Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof Kate Azuka Omenugha, shortly after the conclusion of the School 2024 Carol of night lessons celebration.
The event which took place at the University’s ETF Auditorium, on Friday, December 20th, 2024 with the Theme; COOU Christmas: A bouquet of joy and award, also has in attendance, Traditional rulers, management staff, students and other lovers of the School.
Read Also: Actress Etinosa Idemudia clarified rumors about her new marriage to a white guy
Speaking after the presentation, the VC, Prof Omenugha, said the honoured is the Varsity’s maiden edition, aimed at rewarding remarkable staff and students who are working in line with the Varsity’s 3vs (Vision, Viability and visibility).
She said the staff /students awards cut across eleven distinct categories, including the Research Excellence Award, Teaching Recognition Award, Non-Teaching Staff Awards (which encompass Administrative Excellence Awards for the Registry, Bursary, and the Office of the Vice-Chancellor), and the Student Excellence Recognition Award.
“Additional award categories feature the COOU 2024 Champion Award, Best Green Faculty Award, Award for Institutional Collaboration and Visibility, Most Impactful University Committee of the Year, Tree Planting and Climate Action Award, Selfless Service Award, and the Unsung Hero Award.
She emphasized the initiative behind the maiden awards, stating that it serves as a platform to celebrate excellence, foster camaraderie, and emphasize the well-being of university staff, aligned with the institution’s 3Vs policy—Values, Viability, and Visibility.
“Our goal is to sustain and institutionalize this process, ensuring that exceptional staff and students receive recognition at the close of each year. Since assumption of Office, We observed the remarkable talents present within this university and the commitment of individuals in their respective departments. We have also come across casual workers and cleaners who are true ‘unsung heroes.’ We want to express our gratitude and encourage them, hoping that this acknowledgment will inspire them and motivate others for the year ahead,” the VC noted.
In their unanimous appreciation, the awardees staff/students, expressed their joy, said the recognition would spur them to achieve more excellence and finish strong in their courses of study and research.
The event also featured dance competitions, raffle draws, and gift exchanges.