Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie has been officially approved as the substantive Rector of Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Anambra State. Her appointment, which takes immediate effect, is for a five-year tenure. This decision follows a transparent and competitive selection process recommended by the Polytechnic’s Governing Council, chaired by Sen. Dr. Barnabas Gemade.
Prior to her appointment, Dr. Awuzie, a holder of a Doctorate Degree in Physical and Materials Chemistry, served as a distinguished Chief Lecturer in the Department of Science Laboratory Technology (Chemistry Option) and was the Director in charge of Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) Projects at the institution.
Dr. Awuzie, who hails from Ihiala, a town known for its academic prowess but limited political influence, has held several leadership roles, including heading the Department of Renewable Energy Research and Development, and serving as Director of Petroleum, Coal, and Renewable Energy Research Unit, as well as Director of International Higher Education Academic Organizations.
The appointment comes at a critical time for Federal Polytechnic, Oko, which has faced challenges related to academic integrity, cultism, and outdated practices. Stakeholders hope that Dr. Awuzie’s leadership will bring much-needed sanity and transformation to the institution, ensuring its certificates gain wider acceptance and respect.
The public will be closely monitoring her tenure, with expectations high for positive change and progress at the polytechnic.
Welcome, Dr. Awuzie, to your new role!
