NUC Resource Verification Team Visits COOU Ahead of Proposed Pharm.D Programme

The Resource Verification Team of the National Universities Commission (NUC) for the proposed Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D) programme has paid a courtesy visit to the Vice-Chancellor of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), Kate Azuka Omenugha, as part of its ongoing assessment of the Faculty of Pharmacy.

The visit, which took place on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at the Vice-Chancellor’s Conference Room, formed part of the resource verification exercise required for approval of the Doctor of Pharmacy degree. Present at the meeting were the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration and Environmental Sustainability), Anselm Nweke; Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics), Obiora Ejiofor; and the Dean of the Faculty of Pharmacy, Theophine Akunne.

Speaking during the visit, NUC representative Mustapha Audu commended the university’s anthem, while the Head of Team, Abubakar Malidi, appreciated the warm reception extended to the delegation. He acknowledged the contributions of Sylvia Okonkwo, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Uli Campus and Development Affairs), describing her as supportive throughout the process.

Assoc. Prof. Malidi noted that the university’s successful graduation of four sets of pharmacists, alongside the availability of a teaching hospital, positioned COOU favourably for the introduction of the Pharm.D programme. He also referenced the growing pharmaceutical industry in Anambra State as a strategic advantage. While affirming that the Faculty substantially met required standards, he recommended improvements in office space—particularly for senior academics—as well as increased staffing in certain departments. Matters relating to staff welfare, accommodation, appointments, and promotions were also discussed.

In her response, Professor Omenugha welcomed the delegation and expressed satisfaction with the largely positive feedback. She commended the Dean of Pharmacy for his dedication and reiterated her administration’s commitment to institutional growth under her 3Vs agenda—Values, Viability, and Visibility. The Vice-Chancellor assured the team that identified gaps would be addressed promptly to strengthen the Faculty’s capacity for the proposed programme.

The visit concluded with the presentation of souvenirs to the NUC delegation and a group photograph session.