GOUNI Opens 2025/2026 Session with Workers’ Retreat and Capacity-Building Workshops

Godfrey Okoye University (GOUNI), Enugu, has formally commenced the 2025/2026 academic session with a spiritual retreat and capacity-building workshops for staff, designed to strengthen professionalism, deepen commitment to service, and foster holistic growth.

Delivering the retreat message, the Superior General of Opus Dei, Rev. Fr. Dr. Anthony Odoh, described the university as “a place for dialogue and demonstration of competence in service.” He cautioned staff against the gap between behaviour in church and in society, reminding them that God judges by daily actions. Fr. Odoh urged participants to embrace their duties as a path to holiness while avoiding quarrels and gossip, which he said hinder progress.

In her vote of thanks, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics), Sr. Prof. Marysylvia Nwachukwu, commended Fr. Odoh for his sacrifice and teachings. She encouraged staff to understand holiness not only as prayer or chapel presence but also as faithfully carrying out the will of God in their daily responsibilities.

The retreat was followed by workshops for both academic and administrative staff.

Delivering a lecture on “Essential Management and Supervising Skills and Effective Relationships with Staff and Students,” the University Librarian, Assoc. Prof. Juliana Iwu-James, emphasized balance in work and life. She urged academic staff to manage time effectively, avoid procrastination, prioritize tasks, and embrace healthy living through exercise, rest, and medical check-ups. On communication, she noted that “ultimate communication is shared understanding that leads to effective action.”

Responding, Prof. Boniface Okere described her lecture as a roadmap for sustaining quality at GOUNI, praising her for setting a high academic and professional standard.

At the administrative workshop, the Registrar, Dr. Peace Ike, described administrators as the “engine room” of the university. She called for continuous dedication, creativity, skill upgrades, and effective communication to ensure the smooth operation of the institution.

Also speaking, the Senior Assistant Registrar, Mr. Jerry Asiegbu, addressed Discipline, Code of Conduct, and Dress Code. He stressed punctuality, confidentiality, honesty, courtesy, and respect in service delivery while cautioning against harassment or intimidation of students and colleagues.

In his closing remarks, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Sergius Udeh, commended the speakers for a successful retreat and charged staff to uphold professionalism in all their roles.

The retreat and workshops set both the spiritual and professional tone for the new academic year, reinforcing GOUNI’s commitment to excellence, discipline, and service.