₦1 Million Academic Gift and Scholarships as COOU English Department’s 2006 Set Returns After 20 Years

The Department of English, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), on Friday, August 7, 2026, welcomed its 2006 graduating set, marking two decades since the alumni left the University.

The delegation, comprising staff of the Department and members of the alumni body, paid a courtesy visit to the Vice-Chancellor as part of activities marking their 20th anniversary and to explore opportunities for renewed partnership with their alma mater.

Leading the delegation, the Head of the Department of English, Professor Ikechukwu Asika, introduced members of staff and the visiting alumni.

He expressed appreciation to the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kate Azuka Omenugha, FNIPR, for her commitment to the growth and transformation of the University.

Reflecting on the institution as it was two decades ago, Professor Asika noted the remarkable transformation that has taken place, particularly the development of the University’s gates, infrastructure and general environment at the Igbariam Campus, as well as similar developments at the Uli Campus.

He described the return of the alumni as an opportunity to reconnect with the institution that shaped them and contribute meaningfully to its continued growth.

Speaking on behalf of the alumni, the President of the 2006 set, Dr Chukwulobe Innocent, thanked the University Management for the warm reception and expressed delight at witnessing the transformation of their alma mater.

He revealed that members of the set had unanimously resolved to return to the University where their journey began as part of what he described as “a revolutionary move” to reconnect, contribute and give back.

As part of their 20th-anniversary activities, the alumni have already commenced initiatives aimed at supporting the Department, including the provision of academic materials valued at about ₦1 million and sponsorship of tuition fees for selected students of the Department.

Also speaking, Professor Ifejirika expressed delight at seeing former students of the Department thriving in their various endeavours.

He commended the alumni for returning to their alma mater and described their gesture as a significant milestone, particularly as they have become the first graduating set to make such a direct contribution to the Department.

He noted that their achievements and willingness to give back demonstrate that studying English is not a waste of time, but a foundation capable of producing accomplished professionals across different fields.

Responding on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Administration and Environmental Sustainability, Professor Anselem Nweke, warmly welcomed the alumni to “the Now University and of the Future.”

He commended the 2006 set for remembering their alma mater after 20 years and, more importantly, for choosing to translate their gratitude into tangible support.

Professor Nweke described the donation of academic materials and sponsorship of students’ tuition fees as significant contributions capable of making a real difference in the lives of current students.

He assured the alumni of Management’s readiness to partner with them on initiatives that would produce greater impact, emphasising that the University remains open to meaningful collaborations with its alumni.

The reunion therefore served not only as a celebration of two decades of friendship, achievement and shared memories, but also as the beginning of a renewed relationship between the 2006 set and their alma mater.

Their decision to return, reflect and invest in the next generation represents an example of alumni responsibility and institutional loyalty, further advancing COOU’s vision of building the Now University and of the Future.

The visit ended with a group photograph.