By Ifeanyi Uwagwu/Paul Egede/Isan Carlos
The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Delta (UNIDEL), Agbor, Prof. Stella Chiemeke, has identified sustained funding and strategic support from the Delta State Government as the key driver of the institution’s rapid growth and stability, as the university prepares to graduate 1,606 pioneer students at its maiden convocation ceremony.
Prof. Chiemeke stated this today during a press conference at the university’s main campus ahead of the convocation scheduled for Saturday. She said consistent financial backing, infrastructure development and policy support from the state government have laid a solid foundation for the young university’s expansion and academic advancement.
According to her, UNIDEL, established in 2021 by the immediate past governor, Sen. Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, has continued to enjoy strong support under Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, particularly in the areas of funding, staff welfare, security and infrastructure. She noted that such sustained investment has enabled the institution to grow steadily within a short period.
The Vice-Chancellor disclosed that a total of 1,606 pioneer graduands, drawn from various faculties, will receive their degree certificates at the maiden convocation — a milestone she described as evidence of the university’s commitment to quality and resilience since inception.
She explained that shortly after assuming office, the management invited the National Universities Commission (NUC) for resource verification, leading to the approval of eight faculties at take-off across the university’s three campuses in Agbor, Owa Oyibu and Owa Alero. Since then, she said, the institution has maintained a proactive approach to accreditation and quality assurance, focusing on adequate staffing, curriculum development, teaching facilities and research culture.
Prof. Chiemeke further revealed that the university recorded over 60 per cent growth in admissions between the last two academic sessions, attributing the increase to strict compliance with JAMB regulations and merit-based admission processes, which have boosted public confidence in the institution.
She also credited UNIDEL’s progress to a culture of peace and cooperation among staff and students, stressing that the university maintains zero tolerance for cultism, examination malpractice and related vices, while upholding due process in disciplinary matters.
Highlighting the cordial relationship with host communities in Agbor, Owa Oyibu and Owa Alero, she said the university has sustained regular engagement with local stakeholders, employed qualified indigenes and maintained harmony since its establishment.
Prof. Chiemeke described the graduating students as trailblazers who believed in the new institution and helped shape its standards and culture, while expressing confidence that they would serve as worthy ambassadors of the university.
She also appreciated the National Universities Commission, TETFund, the Governing Council led by Emeritus Prof. Emmanuel Nwanze, staff unions and other partners for their contributions to the institution’s steady development.
