BY RITA OYIBOKA
The Delta State Printing and Publishing Corporation (DPPC), publishers of The Pointer Newspaper, has honoured the Vice-Chancellor, University of Delta (UNIDEL), Agbor, Prof Stella Chiemeke, for what it described as her “exceptional leadership and strategic positioning” of the institution as a high-flyer in Nigeria’s higher education landscape.
The award was presented, today, during a courtesy visit to the university, where the management of DPPC commended Prof Chiemeke for steering the relatively young institution beyond expected limitations and setting it on a trajectory of excellence.
Speaking at the event, the General Manager of The Pointer, Mrs Rosemary Nwaebuni, said the recognition was part of the organisation’s renewed commitment to celebrating individuals who have made meaningful contributions to society, particularly in the education sector. She noted that while new universities often struggle with teething challenges that slow down their growth, UNIDEL under Prof Chiemeke had defied that trend.
“One would have expected that a new university would face challenges capable of stalling its growth. But the way you navigated the system and built this institution is commendable. We are very impressed,” she said.
Mrs Nwaebuni further highlighted the Vice-Chancellor’s efforts in infrastructure development, manpower management, and academic output, describing UNIDEL as an emerging world-class institution capable of competing globally.
“We have seen the quality of graduates produced here. They can compete with their peers anywhere in the world. You have not only positioned this university to be a high flyer but one that stands tall among institutions of higher learning,” she added.
She also reaffirmed The Pointer’s commitment to promoting excellence through visibility and strategic media partnerships, noting that the newspaper takes pride in associating with credible institutions and leaders.
Responding, Prof Chiemeke expressed gratitude for the recognition, describing it as both humbling and encouraging.
She acknowledged the longstanding relationship between the university and The Pointer, emphasising the critical role of the media in amplifying the achievements of academic institutions.
“The Pointer has always been our friend and partner. Even when we are unaware of certain developments, they bring them to our attention. They have consistently helped us tell our story.
“In academics, we often focus on teaching and research, and sometimes our work ends within the classroom. But journalists help project what we do to the wider public. Our visibility today is largely because of your efforts,” she noted.
Prof Chiemeke, who disclosed that she would be bowing out of office on April 26 and formally handing over on April 28, appealed to the media to extend the same level of support to her successor.
“The university cannot do it alone. We need the media to continue to support and promote the institution. I appeal to you to assist the incoming Vice-Chancellor to succeed,” she said.
