Written by GORDI UDEAJAH
The Amadeus University Amizi (AUA) in Abia state at the weekend marked a historic milestone following its formal unveiling by the Senate president Senator Godswill Akpabio featuring the inaugural matriculation ceremony of it’s pioneer cohort of regular undergraduate students.
The momentous event which various persons from many walks of life and parts of the country were in attendance, including the representative of AUA’s assigned Mentor- Nnamdi Azikwe University Awka Anambra state, commenced with prayer and unveiling of the commemorative plaque at the gate symbolizing it’s formal opening which was performed by His Lordship, Dr Raymond Umoh, the Catholic Bishop of Ikot Ekpene Diocese, Akwa Ibom state. This was beside a guided tour of the campus and ceremonial tree planting to commemorate the occasion.
Founder and Chairman of AUA Board of Trustees, Dr Godwin Nwabunka, a Development Economist, in his address emphasised that in line with the saying “With God, all things are possible ” that had guided his life, is proof that AUA emergence was divinely made possible and that education has the power to transform lives.
According to him, this university we see today is a product of vision , hard work and belief that, with God at the center, no challenge is too great , and no dream is impossible to achieve.
Urging the students to hold onto the belief that with God all things are possible, he told them ” but you will also grow in ways that will challenge you to think critically, act ethically and make meaningful contributions to society.
” Our emphasis is on practical knowledge and strong ethical footing will prepare you for life beyond these walls. In your academic journey here, you will be challenged and stretched , and at times, you may stumble but remember that every journey is marked by perseverance”.
Senate President who was represented by the Senator for Abia Central Chief Austin Akobundu of the Peoples Democratic Party , reiterated his belief in the transformative power of education,
“We gather here not just to mark the beginning of a university but to proclaim, to all who have ears to hear and hearts to feel, that education is the mightiest weapon in the arsenal of civilisation.
“Education is a beacon that shall shine through the darkness of ignorance, guiding young minds towards the shores of wisdom and greatness. History has shown us, again and again, that nations rise and fall not by the strength of their armies nor the vastness of their resources, but by the quality of their education and the spirit of their people.
“Knowledge is the fire that fuels invention, the light that dispels oppression, and the ladder by which men and women ascend to their fullest potential.”
Addressing the matriculated students, the Vice Chancellor, professor Samuel Nzotta said that AUA is dedicated to quality education having been founded
as a world-class educational institution where research, innovation, and a culture of excellence are emphasised.
He informed the students that the university has established scholarship schemes and research funds to support outstanding students and innovative research projects while the management is keen on fostering collaborations with international institutions and professional bodies to ensure compliance with the highest academic standards.
AUA Communications Officer, Mrs Joyce Ofua who said that the mission of Amadeus University is to inspire students to explore their passions, develop critical thinking skills, and contribute meaningfully to society,
” is a not-for-profit institution, but dedicated to producing employable, productive graduates through functional and innovative education.
