By Austin Ogwuda
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State has charged institutions of higher learning in the country to ensure they produce graduates with capacity to play critical roles in nation building.
He gave the charge while speaking today, Thursday at the second convocation ceremony of Admiralty University of Nigeria, ADUN, Ibusa, Delta State, Nigeria.
Represented at the occasion by his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, the governor made it clear that institutions of higher learning should stand out and pay priority attention to human capital development.
Said he, “We give priority attention to human capital development. Yes, Artificial Intelligence is currently taking the centre stage across the globe, but the core essence of the continuous existence of Artificial Intelligence revolves round human capital, especially those exposed to technologically centred learning.
“I must commend the management and staff of Admiralty University for addressing human capital development, which is one of the key thrusts of my administration, because we understand the importance of education not only in the lives of every individual, especially among the youths but also in nation building.
“Let me assure you that the seamless relationship between the state government and Admiralty University will continue to grow, I am particularly impressed by the modest progress this institution has made in the short span of its existence, especially in the telecommunication industry”.
The governor therefore congratulated the graduands and charged them to think outside the box and be worthy ambassadors of the institution.
“I congratulate the graduating students for being able to come this far to attain the height, which is being celebrated today.
“I sincerely hope you are all ready for the challenges ahead, because Information and Communication Technology currently rules the world.
“You should be proud alumni of this growing and respected institution; please, go out there and do exploits so that by your fruits, this citadel of learning will remain acceptable and respected among the comity of universities both in Nigeria and overseas”, he further stated.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu represented by Mrs Stella Ugochukwu, a Director in the Federal Ministry of Education spoke in the same direction.
According to him, “Universities should build leaders that will play critical roles in our national life.
“This administration is committed to the welfare of the teaching and none teaching and non teaching staff”, adding that “we will continue to pay attention to quality education of our youths”.
Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Paul Omaji in an address, stated, “in ADUN, integrity and respect for hard work is our guiding principles; the graduates of the University were prepared to face the challenges of the society”.
Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla was among the dignitaries that graced the occasion.