UNICAL Confers Doctor of Laws on Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu
The University of Calabar has honored the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Okezie Kalu, with a Doctor of Laws (PhD) degree during its 38th convocation ceremony. This prestigious academic recognition was accompanied by the distinction of his doctoral research being selected as one of the most outstanding contributions to knowledge, earning a place at the institution's Achievement Exhibition.
A Demanding Academic Journey
While delivering the vote of thanks on behalf of the PhD graduating class, Deputy Speaker Kalu described his doctoral journey as "demanding, humbling and transformative." He emphasized that the process required substantial resilience, discipline, and intellectual commitment, noting that the path to academic excellence is never easy but ultimately rewarding.
Quoting the ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle, Kalu stated, "The roots of education are bitter, but the fruit is sweet," highlighting how the sacrifices involved—from sleepless nights to intense academic struggles—underscore the true value of such achievements. He reflected on the personal significance of this honor, recalling that the University of Calabar had previously shaped his academic foundation, having earned both his LL.B and LL.M degrees from the same institution.
PhD as a Call to Responsibility
Kalu stressed that a PhD should not be viewed merely as an academic title but as a profound call to responsibility. He urged fellow graduates to ensure their research contributes meaningfully to societal development, citing former South African President Nelson Mandela's assertion that "education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world."
The lawmaker referenced concerning data from the National Bureau of Statistics, which indicates that fewer than 100,000 Nigerians hold doctoral degrees in a population exceeding 220 million. He described PhD holders as a "narrow community" bound not just by privilege but by significant responsibility, placing a burden of intellectual leadership on them to drive innovation and national development.
Legislative Commitment to Education
Highlighting his legislative interventions, Kalu reiterated his commitment to expanding educational access through the establishment of several institutions. These include the Federal College of Education in Bende, the Federal University of Medical and Health Sciences in Item Bende, and the Federal University in Okigwe. He emphasized that these institutions were conceived as long-term investments in Nigeria's intellectual and human capital development, rather than mere political accomplishments.
Kalu called on fellow PhD holders to serve as agents of transformation by bridging the gap between academic research and real-world solutions. He expressed deep appreciation to the university's Governing Council, Senate, academic staff, and supervisors for recognizing his research as one of the most outstanding contributions to knowledge, acknowledging their role in his academic success.
