The Class of ’86 from the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) has donated a state-of-the-art 10KVA 48 Volt Solar Panel system to the university library during its inaugural reunion. The donation, spearheaded by Vice-President Dr. Patterson Ogon, aims to address infrastructural challenges in the university and promote a culture of maintenance.
Dr. Patterson Ogon emphasized the urgent need for universities to prioritize the protection and maintenance of their facilities to ensure sustainability and a conducive learning environment. He expressed concern over the deteriorating state of Nigerian university infrastructure, attributing it to a lack of proper maintenance culture.
“The Nigerian university environment is in a sorry state. There is a need for provision and maintenance. It makes no economic sense to provide and not maintain,” stated Ogon.
He urged universities to adopt deliberate and realistic policies to ensure prompt maintenance, emphasizing that the provision of facilities without adequate maintenance compromises their longevity and the realization of their full benefits.
Dr. Ogon called for the active involvement of alumni associations in addressing critical needs within universities. He stressed that institutions and governments alone could not entirely handle the challenges, and alumni support was crucial for enhancing the quality of learning and research.
The Class of ’86, on their 33rd anniversary since graduating from UNIPORT, decided to remodel the school library’s power supply system, showcasing their commitment to the alma mater’s welfare.
The alumni association also organized a symposium for current students, providing insights into life after school and encouraging them to build their capacity while still in university. UNIPORT Vice Chancellor Prof Owunari Georgewill commended the Class of ’86 for their generous donation and echoed the call for alumni associations to contribute actively to the development of their alma maters.
During the symposium, former bank manager Francis Ekonye delivered a lecture advising students to embrace only those things that could positively influence their personal development and contribute to societal progress. The Class of ’86’s donation stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of giving back and fostering a culture of excellence within educational institutions.
