UEE Defends Academic Expansion, Says Programmes Align With NUC Standards and Entrepreneurial Mandate

The University of Education and Entrepreneurship, Akamkpa (UEEA), has responded to public reactions following the recent approval and expansion of its academic programmes, stating that the development reflects its mandate and aligns with regulatory standards.

In a statement addressing what it described as both positive feedback and misconceptions, the institution noted that the reactions to its programme expansion reaffirm public confidence in its direction as an emerging centre of excellence.

The university, however, said it considered it necessary to clarify concerns raised by some members of the public regarding the nature of its courses and institutional identity.

According to the statement, critics had questioned the introduction of programmes such as Nursing Science and the entrepreneurial relevance of the listed courses. The university described such views as arising from limited understanding of its operational framework and academic mandate.

It stated that a university, by global definition, is a universal centre of knowledge not restricted by narrow academic boundaries, but structured to address societal needs through diverse disciplines that promote development.

The institution further explained that the inclusion of “Education” in its name reflects its foundational commitment to teaching, learning, research, and the production of skilled professionals across sectors, adding that its programmes are designed to meet both national and global demands.

On its entrepreneurial identity, UEEA emphasized that entrepreneurship remains central to its academic philosophy and is integrated across all disciplines rather than confined to a specific department.

It stated that every student, regardless of field of study, is trained in entrepreneurial thinking, innovation, and value creation in line with global trends where universities are expected to produce job creators rather than job seekers.

The institution also referenced international examples, noting that universities such as Scotland Entrepreneurship University offer multidisciplinary programmes, including political science and conflict studies alongside science and humanities disciplines, as part of a broader academic structure.

UEEA further disclosed that all its programmes, including newly approved ones, were developed and verified in accordance with the guidelines of the National Universities Commission (NUC), describing the outcome of the verification exercise as evidence of compliance, preparedness, and commitment to quality assurance.

It urged the public to disregard claims suggesting deviation from its mandate, stressing that the institution is instead expanding its academic scope in line with contemporary educational realities and national development priorities.

The Governing Council of the University of Education and Entrepreneurship, Akamkpa, led by Prof. Susan Etim, alongside the management headed by Prof. Patrick Asuquo, reaffirmed its commitment to producing graduates who are academically sound, innovative, self-reliant, and globally competitive.

The institution also reiterated its commitment to sustaining the integration of education and entrepreneurship across all disciplines, while calling on parents, guardians, and prospective students to support and align with its vision.

The statement was signed by Amb. Gabriel Egbe, Ph.D., Registrar, University of Education and Entrepreneurship, Akamkpa.