By Sylvia Akpan, Government House Correspondent
The Alumni of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) has applauded the Executive Governor of the state, Senator Bassey Otu for appointing Barr. Ntufam Fidelis Ugbo as the Pro-Chancellor and Professor Francisca Bassey as the Acting Vice Chancellor of the institution, respectively.
In a letter of appreciation signed by the Alumni National President/Member of the Council, Dr. Inyali Peter and his Secretary Njang Ndoma, noted that the duo fit into the job.
Peter said the state-owned university has suffered many maladministration and other issues that have plagued the citadel of learning for years.
He expressed optimism that Prof. Bassey’s appointment as Acting VC of UNICROSS will bring about a new era of growth, development, and academic excellence to the institution
It read thus: “It is with great pleasure that the University of Cross River State Alumni Association welcomes the appointment of Ntufam Fidelis Ugbo, Esq. as Pro-Chancellor/ Chairman of the Governing Council of the University. The association is also pleased with the appointment of astute academic Prof. Francisca Bassey as Acting Vice Chancellor.
“The alumni commends Governor Bassey Otu and Visitor to the university for appointing people of impeccable character and pedigree to lead the University at this challenging period. We hearty congratulate the new Chairman of council, Ntufam Ugbo and other members appointed, Hon. Francis Eta and Prof. Susan Etim.
“The university has gone through a lot in the past few months and couldn’t have asked for better leadership. Ntufam Ugbo is an accomplished politician and administrator who distinguished himself as one time head of administration/Secretary to the State Government in the state. An economist and a lawyer, the new council chairman has also served as the Executive Secretary of the prestigious National Planning Commission where he left lasting legacies. He is coming with a wealth of experience to help shape the policy direction of the university to achieve her goals.
“Similarly, the appointment of Prof. Bassey is also a strategic one and for those who know her closely, it is save to say that the university will be in save hands with her at the helms of affairs. Undoubtedly, her appointment into this esteemed position is a tribute to her many years of hard work, academic excellence, and dedication to the education sector.
“Prof. Bassey’s impressive academic background and professional experience make her an ideal choice for the university at this time. As recipient of the prestigious American Fulbright Scholarship, she has demonstrated her commitment to academic excellence. Her numerous leadership training program, including those from the Fulbright Foreign Students’ Conference and the Graceland College Center for Professional Development, have equipped her with the necessary skills to excel in this position.
“Throughout her illustrious career, Bassey, a Professor of Organic Chemistry has held several positions in her primary place of work, the University of Calabar. Some of which includes, Director of the Center for Educational Services, and Pioneer Director of the Directorate of Pre-Degree Program, first female Director of Center for General Studies, etc. Some of her achievements in these positions include, pioneering the implementation of Computer Based Tests for regular exams at the University of Calabar, pioneered the introduction of virtual lectures at UNICAL, implemented the use of biometric devices for examscreening at the university, etc.
“A renowned academic and administrator, Prof. Bassey has published over 50 research findings in highly regarded journals and has supervised numerous postgraduate students. Her membership in various professional associations, including the Organization for Women Scientists in Developing Countries and the Chemical Society of Nigeria, demonstrates her commitment to advancing knowledge and promoting excellence in her field.
“The Alumni is confident that her appointment as Acting Vice Chancellor of UNICROSS will bring about a new era of growth, development, and academic excellence to the institution. We congratulate her once again on this achievement and wish her all the best in her new role. The alumni look forward to working with her and the new council to address the challenges facing the institution.
In same vein, the Chief of Staff to the Governor of the state, Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar, has congratulated Professor Francisca Bassey and Ntufam Dr. Fidelis Ugbo on the appointments.
In a congratulatory message made available by his Special Assistant on Media, Patrick Asuquo, said it reflects the vision of his principal – Governor Otu, to entrust leaders with the responsibility of steering the state’s premier university towards greater heights.
The appointments which were recently announced, reflect the vision of Sen. Bassey Otu, to entrust proven leaders with the responsibility of steering our state’s premier university toward greater heights.
He shared the same sentiment that the appointment will foster academic excellence and drive meaningful contributions to the development of Cross River State and Nigeria.
The Chief of Staff commended Hon. Franciz Ettah and Professor Susan Etim on their inclusion in the university’s newly constituted Governing Council.
Mr. Ironbar encourages them to work together in transforming the university into a beacon of progress and opportunity.
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