The Vice Chancellor of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Professor Ursula Ngozi Akanwa, has announced the restoration of the institution’s AGRI VOICE 106.9 FM radio station as part of a broad reform agenda aimed at strengthening agricultural communication, research outreach and community engagement.
Speaking on developments recorded within her first 100 days in office, Professor Akanwa said the revived station would serve as a channel for sharing agricultural innovations, climate resilient farming practices, research outputs and information relevant to both the university community and farmers.
The Vice Chancellor, who is the seventh substantive head of the institution and its first female leader, said her administration has focused on measures designed to improve governance, academic standards and operational efficiency.
According to her, significant changes have been introduced in the university’s administrative structure, including the separation of the Procurement Unit from the Directorate of Physical Planning. She added that adjustments to the institution’s security framework have strengthened safety across the campus.
Professor Akanwa noted that security personnel have successfully tackled incidents of burglary and addressed cult related activities, creating a more secure environment for students and staff.
She also disclosed that staff welfare received considerable attention during the period, with the settlement of salary deficits, payment of outstanding allowances and honoraria, and improvements in promotion procedures.
On the academic front, she explained that new policies have simplified course registration processes and examination administration, making them more efficient for students.
The Vice Chancellor further highlighted efforts to boost the university’s research profile through increased support for research initiatives, staff capacity development programmes, global ranking efforts and partnerships with local and international institutions.
She said the university has also expanded its agricultural activities through extensive cassava cultivation, attracted support from intervention agencies, improved environmental cleanliness on campus and strengthened ties with surrounding host communities.
Expressing appreciation to the Governing Council, management, staff, students and other stakeholders, Professor Akanwa reaffirmed her commitment to sustaining policies that would advance innovation, academic excellence, food security and long term institutional growth.
