FUTIA Holds Send-Forth Ceremony for Pioneer Director of Academic Planning, Prof. Felicia Etim

The Federal University of Technology, Ikot Abasi (FUTIA), Akwa Ibom State, has celebrated the pioneer Director of Academic Planning (DAP), Prof. Felicia Etim, in a send-forth ceremony that highlighted her meritorious service during a one-year sabbatical appointment.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Leo Daniel, commended Prof. Etim for her contributions, noting that she played a pivotal role in laying the foundation for academic planning in the young institution. Speaking at the event, which took place on Friday, September 26, 2025, at the Senate Chambers, Takeoff Campus, Prof. Daniel said:

“On behalf of the Governing Council, Management, Staff, and Students of FUTIA, I congratulate you on the successful completion of your sabbatical. We acknowledge and commend your efforts as our pioneer Director of Academic Planning and the modest but significant contributions you made towards the growth of our specialized university and the education sector at large.”

He further expressed the university’s willingness to collaborate with her in future academic and professional engagements.

Setting the tone earlier, the Registrar, Mrs. Offiongita Nkang, explained that the send-forth was organized to specially honour Prof. Etim for her impressive services and lasting legacies within the institution. She described her tenure as impactful and congratulated her on a successful sabbatical.

In her remarks, Prof. Etim expressed gratitude to God and appreciation to FUTIA for granting her the opportunity to serve. She thanked the Vice-Chancellor, Registrar, Bursar Dr. Mbobo Erasmus, University Librarian Prof. Philip Akor, Members of Senate, Provosts of Schools, Heads of Departments, the staff of Academic Planning Directorate, and the university community for their support.

Prof. Etim, a former University Librarian at the University of Uyo, commended FUTIA’s groundbreaking programmes in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Innovation, while praying for the continued growth and fulfillment of the university’s vision in academics, research, and innovation.

Goodwill messages came from the current DAP and Provost of the School of Management Technology, Prof. Isaac Ayandele; Chairman of the Send-Forth Planning Committee and Head of Mechanical Engineering, Engr. Dr. Bassey Okon; Prof. Eme Joseph of the University of Uyo; and Lady Helen Ebi of the National Library of Nigeria, Akwa Ibom State Branch, who accompanied Prof. Etim to the ceremony.

The highlight of the event was the presentation of a commendation letter and a memento by the Vice-Chancellor on behalf of FUTIA. Additional tributes came from the Head of the Department of Library and Information Technology, Dr. Colombus Udofot, who presented a memento on behalf of his department and the University Library.

Delivering the vote of thanks, Registrar Mrs. Nkang praised the Vice-Chancellor, Management, Senate, and the Planning Committee for their support in honouring Prof. Etim. She extended appreciation to the guests, colleagues, and friends of the celebrant, while wishing Prof. Etim success in her future endeavours.