JAMB Registrar Stresses Accountability in Universities at Prof. Ozumba's Retirement Event
Prof. Ishaq Oloyede emphasizes the vital link between university autonomy and accountability during the retirement celebration of Prof. Benjamin Ozumba, urging responsible governance for sustainable development.
Mary Nwaeze 
In a notable event honoring the retirement of Prof. Benjamin Ozumba, the former Vice Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), the Registrar of the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, underscored the significance of granting full autonomy to universities, stressing the accompanying responsibility and accountability for sustainable development.
During his lecture titled "Institutional Autonomy, Accountability and the Quest for Efficient Governance of Nigerian Universities," Prof. Oloyede highlighted the complexities surrounding discussions on university autonomy and accountability, emphasizing the need for universities to effectively utilize allocated funds for the nation's educational and economic advancement.
He urged universities to prioritize quality teaching, research, community service, and proactive engagement in addressing national issues, while also stressing the importance of accountability to the government. Prof. Oloyede advocated for mutual understanding between universities and the government regarding their respective responsibilities, promoting a balance between rights and obligations.
SUGGESTED: Step-by-Step Guide On How to Check Your 2024 JAMB Mock Exam Result
Drawing examples from other African countries like Ghana and Kenya, Prof. Oloyede suggested the establishment of visitation panels by universities themselves for internal review and enhancement of service delivery and accountability.
In his valedictory lecture, Prof. Ozumba reiterated the pivotal role of tertiary institutions in nation-building, emphasizing the necessity of adequate government funding for education. He urged the government to allocate 26% of the total budget to educational development, aligning with recommendations from the United Nations.
RECOMMENDED: UNN Aspirants Urged to Upload O'level Results Promptly
Prof. Charles Igwe, the Vice-Chancellor of UNN, commended Prof. Oloyede for delivering the lecture in honor of Prof. Ozumba's retirement, recognizing the timeliness and relevance of the topic. He applauded Prof. Ozumba's achievements during his tenure as Vice-Chancellor, acknowledging his significant contributions to the university.
FOLLOW THIS: UNN and Elite Academy International Collaborate for Final JAMB CBT Mock Exam
Senator Tony Nwoye, representing Anambra North Senatorial District, lauded Prof. Ozumba as a father figure and role model, attributing his own success as a medical doctor to Ozumba's guidance. Nwoye pledged to collaborate with others to secure a much-needed N20 billion intervention from the Federal Government to upgrade infrastructure at UNN.
The occasion was marked by the cutting of Prof. Ozumba's 70th birthday cake, symbolizing not only his personal milestone but also his enduring legacy in the academic and administrative spheres of UNN.
The celebration underscored the importance of accountability and responsible governance in Nigerian universities, signaling a collective commitment to advancing education and national development.
