UNICAL VC Commissions Ultra-Modern Lecture Hall and Laboratory, Thanks Donors for Generous Contributions

The Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar (UNICAL), Prof. Florence Obi, has commissioned an ultra-modern lecture hall and a laboratory donated by two sets of MBBCH graduates from the classes of 1989 and 2000. During the ceremony held at the Faculty of Clinical Sciences, Prof. Obi expressed her gratitude to the alumni for their generous contributions to their alma mater.

Represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Administration, Prof. Eno Grace Nta, the Vice Chancellor congratulated the College of Medical Sciences for the newly remodeled lecture hall and the renovated laboratory. She commended the two sets of graduating students for giving back to the college, which will now benefit from state-of-the-art facilities to enhance student learning and training.

"It is a great joy to see ex-students give back to their alma mater," Prof. Obi said. She urged the college to put in place proper measures to maintain the facilities and commended the college staff for shaping students who have now reached a stage where they are able to give back. "Their success is a result of the sterling qualities of staff in the college," she added.

Prof. Obi also praised the alumni, stating, "Management is always proud of alumni from the College, especially for their great strides within and outside the nation."

Speaking on behalf of the 1989 MBBCH graduating class, Project Coordinator Prof. Patrick I. Okonta expressed his pleasure in representing his class to donate the fully remodeled lecture hall. He described the donation as a "give-back project" and highlighted the importance of the lecture hall in addressing the growing needs of the college’s student population.

The lecture hall is equipped with 8 air conditioners, 8 high-quality 60-inch ceiling fans, a whiteboard, an overhead multimedia projector, a public address system with wireless Bluetooth speakers and microphones, an interactive smartboard, and 100 two-seater desks, with additional space for 50 more seats to accommodate 300 students.

Dr. Stephen Ogbodu, representing the MBBCH 2000 graduating class, expressed his honor in donating the refurbished laboratory, noting that it was the second project his class had completed for the college. He emphasized that the laboratory would enhance students’ participation in teaching and contribute to academic excellence.

The commissioning of these projects was part of the activities marking the Maiden College Week and Awards Ceremony of the College of Medical Sciences, University of Calabar.