Nnamdi Azikiwe University has announced plans to upgrade its Pre Science Centre in Mbaukwu, Awka South Local Government Area, into a fully equipped mini campus, with the vice chancellor confirming that preparatory work has already begun on the site.

Professor Ugochukwu Bond Stanley Anyaehie disclosed this during a courtesy visit to the traditional ruler of Mbaukwu, Igwe Peter Anugwu, at his palace. The vice chancellor noted that the upgrade would include facilities improvement and a significant increase in student enrolment, adding that new intakes for the Joint Universities Preliminary Examinations Board programme would commence at the centre by September this year, bringing the total student population to 2,000.

Anyaehie called on the Mbaukwu community to deepen its partnership with the university in the areas of hostel development, security and other services. He projected that the developments would place Mbaukwu on a digital world map as a recognised educational hub and mini campus of Nnamdi Azikiwe University.

Igwe Anugwu, who has spent 51 years on the throne, welcomed the announcement with visible enthusiasm, describing the prospect of seeing the Mbaukwu campus developed to global standards as the greatest wish of his lifetime. The monarch assured the university delegation of the community's full support and prayed against any opposition to the project.

Speaking on behalf of the community, Professor Austin Odum, an indigene and Professor of Accounting, recalled that the Pre Science Centre had previously accommodated as many as 3,000 students before enrolment declined significantly. He expressed confidence that the university management's commitment to upgrading the centre would restore and surpass its former strength.

Odum also confirmed that the land provided to the university for the centre remains free of any dispute or encumbrance, with community members united in their backing of the institution.

Members of the university delegation included the Dean of Student Affairs, Professor Kingsley Ubaoji, Director of the Pre Science Programme and Governing Council member Professor Paul Okolie, Deputy Registrar Dr Blessing Ezeobi and the JUPEB team.