Old students partner alma mater to tackle challenges

The Rivers State University (RSU) alumni association is collaborating with the university management to tackle identified challenges in the institution.
Chairman, Board of Trustees, Prof. Gladson Nwokah, who stated this at a meeting with the old students, urged them to support and contribute to the university’s development.

Addressing the maiden alumni business roundtable meeting, themed: ’Galvanising the alumni community for impact,’ in Port Harcourt, Nwokah said old students must support the government in the task of providing the needed infrastructure for effective teaching and learning.

He said: “Our theme is focused on galvanising the alumni community for impact, which aligns with our present problems and goals. This conversation will focus on our achievements and future potential through the prism of innovation and growth. This progression not only marks our growth and adaptability, but also highlights the unique challenges we have faced as an association.”

Nwokah said the group is committed to mentoring students so as to bridge the gap between academic learning and professional success by leveraging the vast experience of RSU alumni.

“To fulfil our collective goals, we are dedicated to connecting graduates and students through mentorship, professional development, engaging activities, and volunteer opportunities. We recognise the significant role government policies play in shaping societal progress and committed to engage actively in policy dialogues,” he said.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Nlerum Okogbule, said the institution, which started with just seven faculties, now boasts of 16 faculties, making it the seventh most sought-after in the country.

An elated Perekebina Berezi, the National President of the association, described the event as a huge success, saying the university, for the first time, recognised its alumni as major developmental stakeholder.

The keynote speaker, former Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr Dakuku Peterside, called for synergy between the institution and its alumni, saying such collaboration would help the university achieve its desired greatness.

He highlighted the dangers of working in isolation, noting that networking affords an individual access to ideas, knowledge and resources required to succeed.

The event featured awards of recognition to alumni who have made significant contributions in their field, as well as those that have supported the university and shown selfless dedication to the association.