MOAU: VC Reveals Struggle with Mounting Power Costs Amidst Broader Challenges

The Vice Chancellor of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike, Prof. Maduebibisi Iwe, disclosed that the institution grapples with the burden of spending over N44 million every four weeks on power, citing the pressing economic realities. Prof. Iwe addressed the media in Umuahia during a press conference held as part of the school's 2019/2020, 2020/2021, and 2021/2022 combined convocation.

Among the challenges highlighted by the VC are inadequate physical facilities, poor funding, non-release of take-off grants, high demand for amenities and public utilities, especially electricity and water, and the state of the roads. He further mentioned difficulties in accessing and controlling the land allocated for the university by the federal government, as well as frequent disruptions in the academic calendar due to national industrial actions.

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Despite these challenges, Prof. Iwe emphasized the university's progress in various areas. Notably, the institution is advancing towards becoming an entrepreneurial university, with its bread and biscuit factory, as well as a water factory, experiencing significant growth. Additionally, plans for functional feed mills within the next two months are underway, aiming to provide enough feed for animals and generate extra revenue.

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The VC acknowledged the financial strains faced by the university, stating, "Funding the university and all these are by the grace of God and by being prudent. Our resources are small, and we spend about N44 million every four weeks to buy diesel. We have decided to put prudence in all we do."

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Prof. Iwe expressed the university's dedication to enhancing laboratories with state-of-the-art equipment, particularly for sciences and engineering. He also revealed ongoing efforts by specialized universities to persuade the federal government to enlist in related courses and to secure the long-awaited take-off grant owed to the university since its inception.

The upcoming convocation will see approximately 8,369 graduands, marking a significant academic milestone for Michael Okpara University of Agriculture.