UNIZIK Pharmaceutical Students Induction Ceremony: Abia State Government Secretary Highlights Urgent Need to Address Brain Drain
At the 13th induction ceremony for Nnamdi Azikiwe University's Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Prof. Kenneth Kalu, Secretary to the Abia State Government, stressed that improving the economy and reforming professional reward systems are crucial for addressing Nigeria's brain drain. He urged graduates to uphold their oath and focus on local research and solutions to health challenges.
Faith Orji 
The 13th induction and oath-taking ceremony for the 2022/2023 graduates of the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences at Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) served as a platform for discussing critical national issues. Prof. Kenneth Kalu, Secretary to the Abia State Government, highlighted the urgent need for an improved economy and a reassessment of the reward system for professionals to combat Nigeria's brain drain crisis.
In his keynote address on the theme "The Brain Drain and Young Nigerian Graduates: Immediate Challenges and Long-Term Implications," Prof. Kalu emphasized that while skill migration can be beneficial, it poses significant risks when it weakens essential state institutions. He called for a unified effort from all stakeholders to restore trust in both public and private sectors as a means to address this challenge effectively.
Prof. Kalu urged the new graduates to uphold their oath and focus on conducting research and investing in local solutions to tackle emerging health issues.
The event saw an inspiring address from Prof. Carol Ariane Umobi, Acting Vice Chancellor of UNIZIK, represented by Prof. Fedrick Odibo. Prof. Umobi congratulated the graduates and underscored the importance of taking their oath and induction lecture seriously, despite the celebratory nature of the occasion.
Chairman of the ceremony, Lady Ada Chukwudozie, expressed gratitude for the successful event and wished attendees safe travels.
Mr. Valentine Izibor also spoke, pointing out that while brain drain has both positive and negative aspects, it is crucial for all levels of government to take appropriate actions and for citizens to actively hold their leaders accountable for national improvement.
The ceremony was attended by distinguished guests, including the Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, represented by his Commissioner for Housing, Pharmacist Paulinus Onyeka, and Dr. Oluebube Chukukwu, SSA to the Abia State Governor on Due Process.
