Post Graduate Studies Engine Room of Research, Says UNICAL VC
The Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Prof. Offiong Efanga Offiong, has described the College of Postgraduate Studies( CPGS) as the engine room of research in the institution, saying it plays a crucial role in driving the university's mission to advance knowledge and innovation.
Prof. Offiong stated this at the Godswill Akpabio International Conference Centre during an Orientation Programme for postgraduate students for the 2023/2024 academic session.
Represented by the Dean, Faculty of Physical Sciences, Prof. Samuel Inyang, the University helmsman emphasized the importance of research in driving development and urged students to take advantage of the opportunities available to them.
The Vice Chancellor assured the students that their decision to choose UNICAL for their postgraduate studies was a wise one, noting that the institution has the necessary resources and a team of experienced academics dedicated to guiding them towards achieving their academic goals.
Prof. Offiong advised the students to prioritize time management and self-discipline to ensure they complete their programmes within the stipulated timeframe, cautioning that unnecessary delays would only hinder their progress.
He further encouraged the students to publish their research findings in reputable journals, emphasizing the need to contribute new knowledge and make an impact in their respective fields, and to leverage on research to drive innovation and societal development.
The Provost of the College of Postgraduate Studies( CPGS), Prof. Eyong Ubana Eyong, also congratulated the students on choosing UNICAL for their postgraduate studies, welcoming them to the academic community.
Prof. Eyong noted that the CPGS, and by extension the University, is committed to providing a conducive environment that would enhance the students' capacity to excel in their chosen fields, empowering them to make meaningful contributions to their professions.
He explained that the orientation programme was designed to familiarize the students with the College's operations and procedures, and to equip them with the necessary knowledge to navigate their academic journey successfully and achieve their goals.
Prof. Eyong urged the students to remain committed and focused on their academic pursuits, assuring them that with dedication and perseverance, they would achieve their goals and fulfill the purpose for which they are in the college.
The President of the Postgraduate Students Government (PGSG), Comrade Ekpo Tete, reminded the students that postgraduate studies demand focus, discipline, research commitment, and intellectual independence.
He emphasized that they are in the College to refine their expertise, expand their horizons, and prepare for leadership roles in their respective fields.
Comrade Ekpo Tete explained that the orientation programme was designed to acquaint the students with the academic structure and expectations of postgraduate studies, introduce them to policies, regulations, and ethical standards guiding research and scholarship.
The PG President said the programme is also aimed at equiping them with the necessary skills to navigate their academic journey successfully.
He assured the students that the PGSG remains committed to advocating for their welfare, better learning facilities, and constructive engagement with University Management, promising to work tirelessly to ensure that their voices are heard and their needs are met.
Comrade Tete also encouraged the students to be law-abiding, proactive, and involved in activities that add value to their academic journey, even as he emphasized the importance of making the most of their time in the College to achieve their goals and become responsible leaders in their chosen fields.
He further reminded the students that success in postgraduate school requires effective time management, academic integrity, emotional resilience, and balance, urging them to cultivate these qualities to navigate the challenges of postgraduate studies and emerge victorious.
Comrade Tete urged the students not to isolate themselves but build healthy academic relationships and seek guidance when necessary, stressing that collaboration and mentorship are essential components of a successful postgraduate experience.
The PG President encouraged the students to participate in seminars, conferences, and intellectual discussions that will shape their scholarly growth, broaden their perspectives, and enhance their academic profile.
The orientation programme featured various presentations, including the Administrative structure of the College and Registration Procedures by Deputy Registrar/ Academic Secretary, Mrs Vivien Oqua Edim, payment of school fees and approved charges by Deputy Bursar of the College, Dr. John Owan, Course credit waivers and Credit Load by Deputy Provost, Prof. Godwin Eneji Egbung.
Other presentations included Students' Rights and Obligations by Chairman, Students Rights Committee, Dr. Eni Alobo, Approved Associations in the University of Calabar by Dean, Students Affairs, Prof. Eyo Mensah, and College of Postgraduate Studies-based General Courses by Provost of the College, Prof. Eyong Ubana Eyong, among others.
