Minister Urges Universities to Act as Think Tanks for National Development
In a significant address at the 16th convocation ceremony of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu University (COOU) in Anambra State, the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Ojukwu, emphasized the critical role universities must play in shaping national progress. She called on higher education institutions to serve as dynamic think tanks, generating innovative ideas and robust research that can directly inform government policies, particularly in areas such as foreign relations, economic diplomacy, and broader national development strategies.
COOU's 16th Convocation Ceremony Details
The convocation event, set to confer degrees on a total of 3,315 students, marks a milestone for the university. Among the graduates, approximately 800 are postgraduate students, highlighting the institution's commitment to advanced academic pursuits. The five-day celebration commenced with a Founder's Day and a lecture delivered by the European Union Ambassador to Nigeria, Gautier Mignot, focusing on the legacy of Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu. This was followed by a Students Day and Interdenominational Service held at the Igbariam Campus in Oyi Local Council Area.
Prior to the main convocation ceremony scheduled for this weekend, a convocation lecture will be presented by the Polish Ambassador to Nigeria, Michael Cygan. The Vice-Chancellor of COOU, Prof. Kate Onenugha, expressed that this event stands as a testament to the visionary dream of Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu, the esteemed figure after whom the university is named.
Minister's Emphasis on Knowledge and Legacy
Minister Bianca Ojukwu delivered her remarks during the 4th Annual Chukwuemeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu Memorial Lecture, which was organized as part of the university's Founders' Day activities. She described the occasion not merely as a ceremonial gathering but as a profound convergence of history, intellect, and enduring legacy. Reflecting on the ex-Biafra leader, she noted that Odumegwu Ojukwu was not only synonymous with the struggle for justice but also a fervent believer in the transformative power of knowledge.
"We gather to honour and reflect on the life of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, a towering figure whose contributions to Nigeria's political evolution and whose unwavering commitment to the dignity of his people remain indelible," she stated. "He was not only a soldier and statesman, but also a man of ideas, a leader who believed in the power of knowledge, justice, and principled leadership."
She further elaborated that Ojukwu's legacy challenges contemporary society to engage with difficult questions regarding nationhood, equity, inclusion, and the responsibilities of leadership. "His life reminds us that leadership is not defined by convenience, but by courage, sacrifice, and the willingness to stand for what is just, even in the face of overwhelming odds," she added.
Commitment to Collaboration and Climate Resilience
In her address, Minister Ojukwu assured that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs remains open to collaborative efforts with academic institutions. She highlighted the ministry's dedication to projecting Nigeria's image positively on the global stage through such partnerships. Additionally, she commended COOU for its initiatives in promoting climate resilience, aligning with the environmental values championed by Odumegwu-Ojukwu.
This convocation not only celebrates academic achievements but also reinforces the vital connection between higher education and national policy-making, setting a precedent for universities across Nigeria to actively contribute to societal advancement through research and intellectual engagement.
