The Vice Chancellor of Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education (AIFUE), Stella Ngozi Lemchi, has formally commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the prompt approval and release of the Consolidated Academic Tools Allowance (CATA). Speaking during the institution's second matriculation ceremony in Owerri, she noted that this financial support has fostered academic stability and significantly boosted the morale and productivity of both academic and non academic staff following the university's recent upgrade.
During the event held at the university pavilion, 2,121 new students were officially admitted, comprising 2,066 Bachelor’s degree candidates and 55 Professional Diploma in Education (PDE) students. The Vice Chancellor also extended her gratitude to the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, for his instrumental role in securing these allowances and for his continued commitment to the university's ongoing infrastructural expansion.
A major highlight of the ceremony was the acknowledgement of newly upgraded student hostels funded through the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund). This development successfully addresses a critical housing shortage that had lasted for over 15 years, finally providing the student body with modern and comfortable living facilities on campus.
The Vice Chancellor further recognised the contributions of Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, describing his "fatherly guidance" as vital to the institution's growth and its relationship with the host state. She specifically mentioned the Governor’s recent N10 million award to Ebubenna Clinton Amaefula, an English Department student who placed second in the "Imo at 50" Quiz Competition.
Since assuming her role last July, Lemchi revealed that the university has rapidly expanded its academic reach, now offering 45 distinct degree programmes across six faculties. This growth reflects the institution's new status as a fully upgraded federal university dedicated to diverse educational pathways.
On the matter of student conduct, the Vice Chancellor reaffirmed a strict zero tolerance policy regarding social vices such as cultism, drug abuse, and cybercrime. She warned the incoming class that any involvement in activities that undermine academic integrity would result in immediate expulsion from the university.
Closing her address, she reminded the new matriculants that academic success is a product of daily discipline and consistent study rather than luck. She issued a final, stern warning against examination malpractice, labelling it a "complete no no" and emphasising that the university will not hesitate to expel any student caught violating these standards.
