UNICAL Vice Chancellor, Prof Offiong Efanga Offiong.
By Anietie Akpan
The Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar (UNICAL), Prof Offiong Efanga Offiong, has pledged to strengthen ties with the Host Communities of the institution.
A release from the Public Relations Unit of the University said, Prof Offiong gave the pledge during a recent maiden formal visit to the Paramount Ruler of Akamkpa, HRM Ophot Agbor Ewa Ebani, and the Paramount of Akpabuyo, HRM, Etinyin Effiom Francis Effiong Efa.
While stating that it was imperative for paramount Rulers of Host Communities to be carried along in the scheme of things, he pledged to establish a reliable, robust and unbroken line of communication with them.
The University helmsman said that the University of Calabar is in their locality and that as key stakeholders, they have the right to be involved in the running of the institution, seek information, ask questions and suggest ways of moving the University forward.
He used the occasion of the visit to invite the Royal Fathers to the 38th Convocation ceremony of the University of Calabar.
The Vice Chancellor assured of his accessibility at all times and looked forward to further avenues of engagement.
The Royal Monarchs, in their separate remarks, lauded the Vice Chancellor and his team for the visit, describing it as first of its kind.
They stated that style of leadership marks the difference between one leader from another and called on Prof Offiong to sustain the good works at the incipient stage of his administration.
The Royal Fathers charged the Vice Chancellor to place value on everyone under his control, remain flexible and yet stay firm.
They added that if he stays humble, God will lift him to heights of greatness.
In a remark at the visit to the Paramount Ruler of Akamkpa, a prominent official of the palace and Cross River State Commissioner for Works, Mr Pius Edet, described the visit of the Vice Chancellor as thoughtful and historic.
Edet, who is one of the PhD graduates at the forthcoming convocation, said the visit has bridged the obvious gap between his community and the University.
He also used the opportunity to canvass for a sustainable relationship where local content will be appreciated and embraced for greater exploits.
He challenged the Management team of the University to open a farm at Akamkpa, a move which the commissioner believes will promote research.
