The National Universities Commission, NUC, has expressed concern over the noticeable and qualitative decline in the conduct of Ceremonies and Special Lectures which constitute the hallmark of a university and tertiary education.
This was disclosed by the Executive Secretary of the commission, Mr Chris Maiyaki, on Thursday in Abuja during a retreat organized by the commission for the members of the governing councils.
He noted that unique ceremonial occasions such as the Matriculation, Convocation and the Lectures that traditionally precede them as well as Inaugural lectures, University Lectures, Distinguished Lectures, Faculty Lectures and Valedictory Lectures, have, not only declined in quality but have also lost the aura for which they were once known and cherished, because of the adoption of unsavoury local mismatches.
To this end, he said the Commission has resolved to work with relevant stakeholders to establish the minimum guidelines for the conduct of university ceremonies.
He stated that there was an urgent need to enthrone a legacy of good governance values, principles, standards and best practices in institutions of Higher Education.
Maiyaki called on University managers to demonstrate good leadership and stewardship towards the growth of their Institutions.
He said the members have a pivotal role to play in ensuring that the reputational capital of the nation’s Universities is protected adding that they must give all necessary assurance to stakeholders, emphasising that the university system places a high premium on quality.
“It is with this goal in mind that the National Universities Commission, NUC, has organised this retreat, aimed at providing insights into the various instruments as well as relevant legal and regulatory requirements that define the functions of Governing Councils.
”We hope that the retreat will help you to understand the cross-cutting issues that are required to ensure that our Universities are positioned for greater effectiveness”.