UNIZIK to Build World-Class Digital Library as Vice-Chancellor Unveils Transformation Agenda

The Vice-Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, Professor Ugochukwu Bond Stanley Anyaehie, has reaffirmed his administration's commitment to transforming the University's library into a world-class, technology-driven hub for learning, research, and innovation through strategic investments in digital infrastructure, reliable internet connectivity, sustainable power supply, and modern facilities.

Professor Anyaehie made the commitment while receiving the University Librarian, Professor Jacinta U. Eze, and members of the University Library Management Team during a courtesy visit to his office at the Council Chamber.

Speaking during the visit, Professor Eze expressed appreciation to the Vice-Chancellor for his continued support for the development of the University Library. She disclosed that after assuming office, she conducted a comprehensive assessment of the library system, identifying both its strengths and critical areas requiring urgent intervention.

She noted that despite existing challenges, the library is staffed by dedicated professionals who have continued to achieve significant milestones. According to her, these include the rehabilitation of the library's website, intensified awareness campaigns on available library resources, and the successful organisation of a three-day strategic capacity-building programme for library personnel.

Professor Eze said the library's long-term vision is to transition from a predominantly manual system into a fully digital library that meets global standards and effectively supports teaching, learning, and research.

She, however, highlighted several challenges affecting efficient service delivery, including ageing infrastructure, obsolete equipment, defaced walls, inadequate binding machines, poor internet connectivity, and insufficient manpower. She appealed to the Vice-Chancellor to support efforts aimed at addressing these challenges.

Responding, Professor Anyaehie commended the University Librarian for the progress recorded within her short period in office, describing her appointment as timely and well deserved.

He revealed that the University's solar power project is nearing completion and will soon provide stable electricity across the campus. The Vice-Chancellor also announced that the deployment of one of the most robust internet networks in the institution's history is at an advanced stage, stressing that his administration remains committed to providing sustainable infrastructure that will strengthen academic excellence.

Professor Anyaehie assured the library management team that all issues raised had been noted and would receive the necessary attention. He added that plans were already underway to renovate and upgrade the library building as part of the University's broader infrastructure renewal programme.

Earlier, the Digital Librarian, Dr. Blessing Nnenna Otubelu, commended the Vice-Chancellor for revitalising the University's digital library initiative and for his commitment to digital transformation.

She also advocated the establishment of a dedicated scholarly research space to provide staff and students with a conducive environment for high-quality academic research, while reaffirming the Library's commitment to supporting the University's vision through efficient and innovative service delivery.

Also present during the visit were the University Public Relations Officer, Comrade Aloysius E. Attah; Dr. Nwona Nzewi, Medical Librarian; Dr. Victoria Ezejiofor, Serials Librarian; Dr. Angela I. Ndanwu, Africana Librarian; Mrs. Uju Nwafor-Orizu, Health Science Librarian; Dr. Obiozor Ekeze, Acquisition Librarian; Dr. (Mrs.) Okafor Kelechi, Circulation Librarian; and Mr. Onwuka Ogbonna Anya, Personal Assistant to the University Librarian.