The Hensard University, Toru-Orua, Sagbama in the Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, has held its maiden matriculation ceremony, inducting 150 students and promising to commence its professional courses in law, medicine, engineering, nursing, and pharmacy, among others.
Senator Seriake Dickson, former Governor and Senator representing Bayelsa West in Bayelsa and Chancellor of Hensard University, while speaking during the matriculation ceremony, said that education remains the only reliable tool in changing any human society.
The lawmaker also said that his motivation to continue investing in education stems from the fact that building roads, bridges, and other infrastructures is mere brick and mortar without the development of the human mind.
According to Senator Dickson, “The focus of Hensard University is the total development of the human being and not just academic excellence, a reason I admonish the matriculants and inductees to be focused and do their utmost, knowing the high standards the university has set.
“I urge the Vice Chancellor and his team to continue working together to translate the goals and vision of the university, which is combining academic excellence, skills development, and industry mentorship to produce leaders and graduate entrepreneurs,” he said.
Dickson also announced “the preparedness of the institution to start off the second academic session, as the ball is in motion for the commencement of its professional courses in law, medicine, engineering, nursing, and pharmacy, among others.”
In his remarks, the Acting Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, congratulated the matriculants and inductees of the university and encouraged them, “To take their studies seriously as education is the only tool to conquer the world.”
Senator Ewhrudjakpo, who was represented by Mr. Gentle Emelah, the state commissioner of education, also lauded Senator Dickson’s long-term vision in education and his concept of service to humanity that has materialised in the founding of Hensard University.
The acting governor also thanked the vice chancellor and his management team while reiterating the state government’s commitment to continue partnering with the university.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Dileep Kumar, expressed appreciation to Senator Dickson, “For bringing his big dream to fruition, and our management team for the support in translating the vision of the university’s founder.
“I urge the students to take their academics seriously, as education is the springboard to self-development and the accomplishment of your dreams and goals.”
The Hensard University Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Mrs Prekeyi Tawari-Fufeyi, during her vote of thanks, reminded the students of the university’s three zero-tolerance policies that include no to cultism, drugs, and all illegal forms of unionism.
These are belief in God; respect and tolerance to all; integrity and honour at all times; and courage of conviction.
Others include love and compassion toward all; service to God and humanity; hard work and responsibility; passion in everything; innovation and enterprise; discipline; gratitude; and excellence.
The Vice Chancellor of the University of Africa, Prof. Solomon Tamarabrakemi Ebobrah, was also present, and he expressed his joy in having a healthy competing institution within Toru-Orua, arguably the first community in the entire Niger Delta to host two universities.
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