It was another memorable day to honor and appreciate the achievements of the brightest and best. On July 28, 2023, the AUN Academy organized a flawless and stylish celebration to recognize the graduating class of 2023.
In the expansive interior of the Lamido Musdafa Commencement Hall, guests, parents, families, and well-wishers were treated to a vibrant and well-managed graduation ceremony by the School's management. Like in previous occasions, no details were ignored. Once again, the AUN Academy proved why it is in a class above its peers with a flawless and elegant delivery. AUN President Dr. DeWayne Frazier, was proudly represented by the interim Dean of the AUN School of Engineering, Dr. Abubakar Sadiq Husseini.
Congratulatory and goodwill messages poured in to honor the achievements of the Graduating Class of 2023 from the School's management, teachers, staff, and guardians, but even more so from their proud parents and well-wishers.
Director of AUN Schools, Mr. Francis Marisco, played host with commendable aplomb as he acknowledged and appreciated his graduating students and guests.
"At AUN Schools, we would not achieve what we have achieved without the hard work and dedication of our administrators, teachers, and support staff, and unwavering support of our parents. Thank you for everything you do each and every day to make AUN Schools the wonderful place it is for our students," he noted.
The Director also urged the graduating students to remain focused despite the challenges they may face through the steps to adulthood.
"To this year's graduates, I want to remind you that the journey is not over. You are just starting on the road to adulthood and you will face many challenges on your way there. Keep the bar high when setting your goals and stay focused," he advised.
Deputy Director of AUN Schools, Hajiya Asma'u Atiku, whose speech was delivered by the Assistant Director, Mr. Nazeer Yahya Mikali, expressed her confidence in the quality and reliability of the graduating students. Hajiya Asma'u congratulated them and urged them to soar high in every aspect of life they may choose to follow.
"Today, as you stand on the precipice of a new beginning, I have no doubt that you are prepared to conquer any obstacle that come your way. As you leave the confines of these hallways, spread your wings and soar, always strive for excellence while remaining humble and compassionate," she counselled her wards.
All eyes were on the Class of 2023 Valedictorian, Ms. Ummul-Kalthum Ayman, who shone like a bright light. Ms. Ummul-Akulthum thanked the Academy's Founder, His Excellency Atiku Abubakar, GCON, the management and guardians who "shaped me into the person I am today" for their contributions to her development. "At the AUN Academy, I have had the privilege of acquiring knowledge, nurturing friendships and discovering our passions." She also thanked her teachers for guiding her and her classmates to excel and become masters of their subjects.
The Class Speaker, Mohammed Jaji, the Head Boy, Siji Dantata, and the Head Girl, Joy Ashar. of the Class of 2023 also delivered memorable and inspiring speeches to the admiration of the guests and the joy of their families.
The Academy eulogized and paid tribute to the immediate past Director of AUN Schools, Mrs. Nkem Uzowuru, who died earlier in the year, and celebrated her for her vision, integrity, and excellence and the role she played in growing the AUN Schools into the best academic institutions in the region. The late Engineer Shawulu Adamau is another staff member recognized and honored for his hard work and dedication.
Reported by John Abah
In his welcome address, AUN President Dr. DeWayne Frazier said the fight against gender-based violence is so important to him that he strongly supports the program. He narrated a personal story while in the Congo Democratic Republic, how that incident impacted him and created psychological connections with gender-based violence against vulnerable persons, and his unyielding resolve to fight it.
The Provost and Vice-President of Academic Affairs, Prof. Attahir Yusuf, assured them they would be treated as equal and respectable community members. He told the students that AUN is a modern, diverse college where everyone is treated with respect, equity, and dignity, irrespective of their cultural, religious, ethnic, or social backgrounds.
Vice-President of Campus Live and Dean of Students Affairs Mr. Byron Bullock reiterated the need for students to heed their parents' advice, be humble and consistently exhibit good character, and use the internet wisely.
President of the Student Government Association (SGA), Mr. Talford Ongolo Jr., informed them of all the service opportunities available at AUN that will groom them into leaders and the best versions of themselves. He let the students know about the campus while encouraging them to break out of their shells and connect to what interests them as individuals. He also assured them that their rights are always protected under the auspices of SGA and the Students Affairs Department.