Oko Poly to Split Public Administration Department, Introduce New Programmes

The Federal Polytechnic Oko, Anambra State, has announced plans to unbundle its Department of Public Administration in a move aimed at introducing new interdisciplinary programmes.

The Rector, Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie, disclosed this during the second National Hybrid Conference of the department, held on Thursday, August 7, 2025, at the Polytechnic Auditorium.

According to Dr. Awuzie, the decentralisation is intended to integrate government innovations, political communication, and digital service delivery into the institution’s curriculum. She revealed that arrangements have been concluded for resource inspection and the launch of the following programmes:

• National Diploma in Local Government and Administrative Studies
• National Diploma in Crime Management
• National Diploma in Law
• Higher National Diploma in Human Resources Management

Speaking on the conference theme, Politics, Governance and Contending Issues in Nigeria, the Rector described it as timely, urging participants to use the platform to generate practical solutions for the country’s national rebirth.

She stressed that the topic reflects the urgent need to reclaim governance from those who prioritise personal interests over the needs of the people. “This keynote address aims to chart a path for reclaiming governance and restoring public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic future,” she said, adding that her administration’s 12-point development agenda aligns with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope agenda.

One of the resource persons, Dr. Arum Nnenna Charity of Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic, Aba, identified key governance challenges including political party defections, corruption, insecurity, flawed elections, naira devaluation, fuel subsidy removal, and leadership deficits. She called for stronger democratic institutions to address these issues.

Earlier, the representative of the Head of Department, Mr. Ferdinand Ekwealor, expressed appreciation to the Rector, principal officers, and paper presenters including Prof. Odum Mbanefo of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, and Dr. Charity for their participation.

The conference’s LOC Chairman, Dr. Ijeoma Aniemeka, emphasised the relevance of the event and commended the department for its initiative.

Dr. Awuzie reiterated her administration’s zero tolerance for student extortion and sexual harassment, warning that offenders would face strict disciplinary action.