AE-FUNAI Faculty of Agriculture Holds Orientation for Freshmen

As part of its process of integration and familiarization with students , the Faculty of Agriculture, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu Alike, has organized an orientation programme for its freshmen to acquaint them with their new environment.

Myschoolnews the orientation programme which is often held at the ice- breaking stage of the admission into institutions of higher learning, helps to prepare the freshmen for the future by aiding them to adapt with their new environment.

Welcoming the students to the event, the Acting Dean, Faculty of Agriculture, Dr. Christiana Igberi congratulated the freshmen for their admission and admonished them to obey the rules and regulations of the University. She urged them to imbibe the spirit of excellence and Integrity which is the motto of the University.

Dr. igberi further stated that the purpose of the orientation was to enable the students start on a strong footing, and urged them to co-operate with the University and be of good behavior, in order to be found worthy in character and learning.

Prof. Isaac Osakwe while delivering a lecture titled “Career Opportunities in Agriculture” described Agriculture as a vast course which strongly prepares one for the future, especially in a country like Nigeria where there is a gradual shift from Agriculture to oil exploration.

He advised the students to seize the opportunity of learning in the field to plan towards total restoration of Agriculture and diversion from politics.

He further pointed out that passion is a requisite factor that will drive success in their career, urging them not to look down on their chosen field even though some of them did not actually apply for the course as their first choice, and stressed that Agriculture is one of the most lucrative businesses.

Prof. Osakwe also highlighted other aspects of Agriculture that would not necessarily require farming to include Animal Production, which incorporates either of the following Animal Husbandry, Animal Health and Veterinary Technology, Animal and Feed production .

Other aspects of Agriculture, according to him, include: Crop Production, Soil and Surveying, Farm Business Management, Agricultural Marketing, Agricultural Engineering and Fisheries

He assured them that whatever field they wish to venture into, the journey will undoubtedly be pleasant and a didactic merry -go-round.

Prof. Isaac Osakwe delivering his lecture at the event

Dr. Jane Munonye, whose lecture was titled; “Authentic Time Management For Effective Study”, said attendance to classes is strongly linked to students’ success.

She noted that it is a primary Indicator of a student’s engagement levels with their course of study, adding that It also serves as a 1st indicator for students’ retention, wellbeing or academic progression.

Dr Muonye affirmed that time Management plays a significant role in effectiveness and productivity, and enables students to be more efficient, organized, and able to allocate time for research; increases focus and productivity and enables one to be more committed in studies, and eliminates distraction and boosts concentration.

She concluded that effective time management helps one to be smarter and helps in the achievement of goals faster.

The Head of Department of Agriculture, Dr. Michael Olaolu while speaking on “What Inception Quiz and Mid Semester Quiz Are all About”, stressed the importance of Notice Boards and the duties of Academic Adviser in the life of a student, mandating them to know their Academic Advisers.

The Director of Academic Planning, Prof. Dr Johny Ogunji in his presentation enlightened the students on the dangers of Exam Malpractice and admonished them to make hay while the sun shines, noting that making a first class grade starts on one’s first day in the lecture hall. He warned them to desist from any offence that will lead them to be either suspended or expelled from the University.

DAP, Prof. Dr. Jonny Ogunji speaking at the programme

The Deputy Director, Research and Development, Dr. Robert Onyeneke who spoke on Students’ Conduct and Behavior on Campus, advised the students to be of good conduct and ensure the reason their parents and guardians sent them to school is achieved.

He also encouraged them to always mind their dressing, their hairdo and, be punctual to lecture, and sternly warned them to desist from cultism.