Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic, Aba-previously known as Abia State Polytechnic-has successfully regained accreditation for 33 academic programs that were lost nearly three years ago, while also launching 17 additional courses.
Christopher Okoro, the institution’s rector, shared this update during a courtesy visit from the newly appointed leaders of the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Abia State council.
He highlighted that his administration has streamlined the process for students to access their examination results, eliminating the need to approach lecturers directly, thereby reducing opportunities for exploitation.
“Following the conclusion of exams, all results are mandated to be uploaded within six weeks. For final-year students, this timeframe is shortened to four weeks,” Okoro explained.
This system ensures students receive their results promptly without intermediary delays. “Our approach prioritizes both students and staff welfare. We have cleared all outstanding salary arrears,” he added.
“When we assumed office, there was a backlog of 36 months’ unpaid salaries. Thanks to the support of Governor Alex Otti, we have settled all debts, and no staff member is owed on campus,” Okoro affirmed.
He further revealed that the management has addressed promotion delays, advancing staff who had not been promoted between 2008 and 2012 up to the year 2022.
“The second phase of promotions is underway, covering up to 2025. This reflects the governor’s commitment to settling obligations that were not originally his responsibility,” he noted.
Earlier in the meeting, Steve Oko, chairman of the Correspondents’ Chapel, briefed the rector on the group’s activities and discussed opportunities for a mutually beneficial partnership with the polytechnic.
Oko praised the rector as a remarkable catalyst for progress, commending his leadership for elevating the institution’s profile from relative obscurity to prominence in under two years.
He encouraged the polytechnic to focus on producing high-quality research and assured the chapel’s dedication to enhancing the institution’s visibility in the media landscape.
Having been elected just last month, Oko also urged the rector to consistently engage with professional journalists and remain vigilant against impostors posing as media practitioners.
