UNIZIK to Upgrade Mbaukwu Pre-Science Centre into Mini-Campus To Expand Student Enrolment
UNIZIK has unveiled plans to upgrade its Mbaukwu Pre-Science Centre into a mini-campus, with improved facilities and the introduction of JUPEB students from September 2026. The initiative is expected to increase student enrolment, strengthen community-university collaboration, and position Mbaukwu as a major educational hub in Anambra State.
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Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ugochukwu Bond Anyaehie, of Nnamdi Azikiwe University has announced plans to transform its Pre-Science Centre in Mbaukwu, Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State, into a fully developed mini-campus, a move expected to boost student enrolment and expand academic facilities.
The Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Ugochukwu Bond Anyaehie, disclosed the development during a courtesy visit to the traditional ruler of Mbaukwu, Igwe Peter Anugwu, at his palace.
According to the Vice-Chancellor, the university has commenced work on upgrading the centre's facilities and infrastructure as part of efforts to reposition it as a major academic hub. He also revealed that newly admitted students for the Joint Universities Preliminary Examinations Board (JUPEB) programme will begin their studies at the Mbaukwu centre from September this year.
Prof. Anyaehie noted that the addition of JUPEB students will significantly increase the student population at the centre, with enrolment projected to exceed 2,000 students.
Describing Mbaukwu as a progressive community with a supportive traditional institution, the Vice-Chancellor emphasized the need for stronger collaboration between the university and the host community, particularly in areas such as hostel development, security, and other support services.
He expressed confidence that the planned transformation would place Mbaukwu on the educational map as an important academic destination and an extension of the university's main campus.
Responding, Igwe Peter Anugwu expressed delight over the proposed development, describing it as a dream come true for the community.
The monarch said the upgrade of the centre into a mini-campus ranks among his greatest aspirations for Mbaukwu, noting that he had long hoped to see the facility developed into a world-class academic centre during his more than five decades on the throne.
He pledged the community's full support for the project and prayed for the successful implementation of the university's plans. The royal father also commended the Vice-Chancellor for his vision and commitment to advancing the institution.
Speaking on behalf of the community, Austin Odum, a Professor of Accounting and indigene of Mbaukwu, described the announcement as a milestone for the town.
He recalled that the centre once recorded a student population of about 3,000 before experiencing a decline over the years. However, he expressed optimism that the proposed upgrade would revive its fortunes and attract more students.
Odum further assured the university management of the community's unwavering support, stressing that the land allocated to the institution remains free from disputes or encumbrances.
Other members of the university delegation included the Dean of Student Affairs, Prof. Kingsley Ubaoji; Director of the Pre-Science Programme and member of the Governing Council, Prof. Paul Okolie; as well as members of the JUPEB team and other university officials.
