AE-FUNAI Inaugurates Governing Board for College of Medical Sciences

Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike (AE-FUNAI), Ebonyi State, has inaugurated the maiden Governing Board of its College of Medical Sciences in a move aimed at strengthening governance and enhancing the college's academic and administrative operations.

The Board was inaugurated by the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Engr. Dr. Anthony Nebo, marking the first time the College of Medical Sciences, established about nine years ago, will operate under a dedicated governing board.

Speaking during the inauguration, Dr. Nebo commended the Vice-Chancellor for initiating the process and reaffirmed the Governing Council's commitment to supporting the board in achieving excellence in medical education, research, and healthcare service delivery.

He said the board is expected to provide strategic leadership and position the College of Medical Sciences as a centre of excellence.

In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Daniel Nwachukwu, described the inauguration as both historic and long overdue.

He explained that upon assuming office, he observed that excessive centralisation of administrative powers in the Office of the Vice-Chancellor had slowed decision-making within the university.

According to him, the institution has commenced a deliberate decentralisation process aimed at building a more proactive, resilient, and efficient university, with the establishment of the College of Medical Sciences Board forming a key part of that reform.

Prof. Nwachukwu stated that granting the college a measure of semi-autonomy would enable the board to directly oversee its academic, administrative, and financial affairs while ensuring that the college achieves its objectives without unnecessary dependence on the university's central administration.

He added that the new governance structure would allow the college to respond more effectively to its challenges and improve its overall performance.

The Governing Board is chaired by the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council. Other members include the Vice-Chancellor, the Provost, the Deputy Provost, the Chief Medical Director of the Teaching Hospital, all Deans of the College's faculties, a nominee of the Governing Council, a nominee of the College Academic Board, a Financial Controller not below the rank of Deputy Bursar, and the College Secretary, who will serve as the board's secretary.

The inauguration reflects AE-FUNAI's commitment to strengthening institutional governance and advancing quality medical education in line with global best practices.