The American University of Nigeria's (AUN) 15th commencement ceremony is just around the corner. This highly anticipated event not only celebrates the academic success of AUN students but also has a positive impact on the host community, contributing to its economic growth as it welcomes guests from all walks of life to the beautiful sunshine city of Yola.
Chief Mike Ozekhome, Senior Advocate of Nigeria- SAN, is the distinguished 15th Commencement speaker. As a Constitutional Lawyer, renowned Human Rights Activist, Pro-Democracy Campaigner, Public Affairs Analyst, Author, Motivational Speaker, and a patriotic Nigerian, his achievements are unparalleled. Chief Mike Ozekhome is the founder and lead counsel of Mike Ozekhome's Chambers, and his legal prowess has been recognized with over 300 awards and honors, both locally and internationally.
AUN's Commencement is a significant event that marks the culmination of years of hard work for students as they receive their well-earned degrees. It is a transformative moment, a bittersweet mix of emotions, including nostalgia for the people and the place that has been their home for the past few years and the excitement of stepping into a new phase of life, filled with hope and anticipation.
According to Dr. DeWayne Frazier, President of the American University of Nigeria, "Commencement Day is not just a milestone in one's education journey, but it is a celebration of perseverance, dedication, and hard work. As an educator, I look forward to the Commencement event most of my career, as it serves as a symbol of the transformation that has occurred in our graduates. Our students are among the best anywhere in the world, and now they will take their place alongside the alums of this great institution, making the world a better place day by day."
The upcoming Commencement, set for May 18, 2024, is expected to showcase numerous success stories. The event offers a preview of what lies ahead, with high hopes for the university's progress and the achievements of the graduating students.
The academic journey of many students at AUN, particularly the pioneer set of the School of Engineering, is reaching a significant milestone. The School of Engineering will soon graduate its first set of engineers since its establishment in the fall 2019 academic sessions. It marks the culmination of a five-year journey for these students, who will soon be receiving their B.Eng. in Chemical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Electrical/Electronic Engineering, and Telecommunication Engineering. This graduation represents the beginning of their professional careers, and the world will soon witness the quality and expertise that they possess.
The AUN's emerging School of Engineering is making significant strides in driving local community development through the Agricultural Yawo Uniform Information and Access to Market System (A-YUNIAMS) project. An initiative, the school worked collaboratively with ASBA Synergy and InnoInspire Ltd to make a real difference in the lives of the local community. This initiative has attracted a $100,000 grant from Afrexim Bank.
The school is also actively tackling AUN energy challenges by implementing solar power in the library complex. It has plans to expand this initiative to the Data Center and communication satellite to ensure seamless data access and uninterrupted internet connectivity.
AUN has also achieved another milestone, with approval from the NUC to launch programs in Nursing and Public Health under the School of Basic Medical and Allied Health Sciences.
As the famous saying goes, "Where much is given, much is expected." The American University of Nigeria has significantly impacted the lives of its students through education, positive values, and character development. Consequently, the institution expects all graduating students to embody its values as they enter the world. They are expected to be exemplary ambassadors, demonstrating excellent character, humility, and a commitment to selfless service, integrity, and accountability in all their endeavors.
Reported By John Abah