The Rector of Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic, Aba, Engr. Dr. Christopher Okoro Kalu, has reaffirmed that the long-anticipated relocation of academic activities to the institution’s Osisioma Campus is now imminent, as infrastructural projects at the site approach completion.
Dr. Okoro made this known during an expanded management meeting held at the Schools’ Council Chamber. He disclosed that several ongoing projects at the Osisioma Campus are nearing completion.
According to him, the Polytechnic’s current infrastructural development efforts are now fully concentrated on the Osisioma Campus, with assurances that all buildings under construction will be completed and commissioned between March and April.
“The movement to Osisioma Campus is no longer a promise; it is a reality,” the Rector stated, adding that management remains committed to ensuring that academic activities commence at the campus in the shortest possible time.
Dr. Okoro reiterated the institution’s policy prohibiting the sale of textbooks to students and urged staff to continue to treat students with dignity, kindness, and professionalism, while avoiding all forms of unethical practices.
He further emphasized his administration’s unwavering commitment to staff welfare, noting that a motivated workforce is critical to the delivery of quality academic and administrative services.
“We will continue to fight for the welfare of the staff, and it will please us if they, in turn, fight for the welfare of the students,” he said.
The Rector also revealed management’s plan to introduce a new programme in Sports and Physical Education, following a proposal by the Abia State Commissioner for Sports. He disclosed that the programme would be domiciled in the School of Business and Management Technology (SBMT).
In addition, Dr. Okoro announced that evening programmes would soon be introduced for students of Mass Communication and Engineering, as part of efforts to expand academic opportunities and improve access to education.
On convocation matters, the Rector assured the Polytechnic community that graduation ceremonies would henceforth be held annually.
“As long as I remain here, by the grace of His Excellency, convocation will be held every year. We will not deny people what is due to them,” he assured.
Dr. Okoro expressed gratitude to members of staff for their massive turnout at his mother-in-law’s traditional retirement ceremony and also commended the Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, for approving a new structural salary payment for the institution.
“I want to appreciate His Excellency, Dr. Alex Otti, the Chief Painter, for using the right paints always,” he said, while pledging that the Polytechnic would fully align its operations with the state’s theme of the year, Acceleration and New Possibilities.
