Anambra to Sponsor 37 First-Class Graduates for Postgraduate Studies

The Anambra State Government has pledged to fully sponsor 37 first-class graduates of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU) for postgraduate studies in any Nigerian-owned university, as part of efforts to strengthen higher education and human capital development in the state.

Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo made the announcement during the university’s combined convocation ceremony held at the Igbariam campus, where he urged graduating students to become ambassadors of positive change and contribute to national development.

Soludo, referencing Sunny Okosun’s classic “Which Way Nigeria,” challenged the graduates to rethink the country’s trajectory and actively participate in rebuilding its economy and institutions.

He also disclosed plans to engage the university management and governing council on a structured financial and welfare support framework aimed at improving staff welfare and institutional sustainability.

The 16th convocation ceremony, which formed part of the institution’s silver jubilee celebrations, also featured the presence of dignitaries and the conferment of honorary degrees on distinguished Nigerians, including the newly appointed Chancellor, Most Rev. Matthew Hassan Kukah, who expressed appreciation to the state government for his appointment. 

Kukah commended the institution for its growth and urged graduands to remain connected to their alma mater by contributing to its continued development.

Speaking earlier, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Kate Omenugha, described the convocation as historic, noting that it marked another milestone in the university’s academic calendar and its efforts to restore consistent annual graduations. 

She also highlighted the university’s steady academic expansion and reaffirmed its commitment to delivering globally competitive education.

The ceremony, according to the university, reflects its continued evolution as a leading state-owned institution committed to academic excellence and innovation.