UNICROSS Marks Milestone with 10th Inaugural Lecture on Nigerian Teacher’s Public Image

The University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) achieved a significant milestone on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, with the delivery of its 10th Inaugural Lecture, bringing the series into double digits.

The event took place at the Multi-Purpose Hall, New Cafeteria, Calabar Campus.

The lecture, delivered by Professor Okorn Ebey Osam, a seasoned educator and Professor of Teacher Education in the Faculty of Education, was titled “From ACME to Dwindling Public Image: The Nigerian Teacher”. Prof. Osam traced the evolution of the teaching profession in Nigeria, highlighting the prestige teachers once enjoyed and the gradual decline in societal perception over the years.

He noted that teachers, once regarded as the “backbone” of society, now face diminished value due to poor remuneration, inadequate professional support, and declining recognition. Prof. Osam underscored the critical role of teachers in national development, declaring that “no nation can surpass the quality of its teachers.” He called for urgent reforms, including improved working conditions, enhanced professional training, and supportive government policies, urging parents, policymakers, institutions, and the public to recommit to restoring the dignity of the teaching profession.

Representing the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Thomas Ojikpong, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), welcomed the guests and lauded Prof. Osam for his dedication, noting, “He has paid his bride price today,” in reference to his lifelong commitment to education. The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Francisca Bassey, described the day—12th December 2025—as special, and encouraged other Professors to follow suit in 2026, reaffirming UNICROSS’s commitment to academic excellence and research addressing national challenges.

The lecture attracted high-profile attendees, including university principal officers, academics, traditional leaders, students, and distinguished guests from within and outside Cross River State.

Key highlights of the event included:

• Presentation of the Inaugural Lecture booklet to the Vice-Chancellor by Prof. Osam.
• Presentation of a memento to the lecturer by the Vice-Chancellor.
• Cultural dance performances and photographs.
• A grand reception to close the day’s proceedings.

The event not only marked a decade of UNICROSS inaugural lectures but also provided critical insights into the urgent need to uplift the teaching profession in Nigeria.