UNICAL VC Emphasizes Interest in Ecosystem Preservation

The Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar (UNICAL), Prof. Florence Banku Obi, has reaffirmed the institution's commitment to ecological sustainability.

This was conveyed during a visit by a team from the University of Plymouth, UK, led by Prof. David Jones and Prof. William Blake, aimed at strengthening their ongoing collaboration.

Represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Administration, Prof. Eno Grace Nta, Prof. Obi highlighted the importance of understanding and managing water resources, particularly in riverine areas like Calabar. "Water is life. It supports humans, animals, and trees," she emphasized.

The visiting team expressed their enthusiasm for the partnership, focusing on climate change, natural resource management, and sustainable livelihoods. They pledged to engage local communities in educational programs on the evolving challenges and solutions for a sustainable future.

Key UNICAL representatives, including Prof. Raphael Offiong of the Carbon Innovation Centre, underlined the university’s active role in climate action through research and awareness campaigns. Prof. Peter Okafor, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research Linkages, emphasized the need to enhance staff and student exchange programs as part of the collaboration.

The event also featured stakeholders from various institutions, reflecting a unified effort towards addressing ecological and environmental challenges.