Mrs. Patricia Nwankwegu, Provost of Ebonyi State College of Nursing Sciences in Uburu, has raised alarms about critical issues hampering the institution’s progress, specifically highlighting severe understaffing, insufficient transportation options, and unreliable power supply as the primary obstacles.
Speaking at the College’s 8th capping and matriculation ceremony, Nwankwegu urged the state governor to consider granting a waiver that would allow the recruitment of both academic and support staff, a move she believes is essential to enhancing the institution’s productivity and service delivery.
In addition, she appealed for the provision of a dedicated coaster bus to facilitate mobility and requested that the state’s health commissioner assign personnel on secondment to the college whenever necessary to bolster staffing levels.
Established in 2018 initially as a Nursing Department, the College has recently expanded its academic offerings by incorporating a Midwifery Department in 2024, thereby evolving into the Ebonyi State College of Nursing Sciences and Midwifery.
The ceremony was held at the College Grounds on Hospital Road, Uburu, within the Ohaozara local government area of Ebonyi State.
Mrs. Nwankwegu revealed that following the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) accreditation obtained last year, the College was listed on the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) portal. This milestone not only increased the student intake capacity per session but also attracted applicants from various regions across Nigeria and beyond.
She proudly noted that the current cohort of 275 matriculating students represents the largest enrollment in the College’s history. Reflecting on her tenure, she mentioned that since her appointment as provost just 19 months ago, the institution has witnessed remarkable advancements.
Commending the state’s Health Commissioner, Dr. Moses Ekuma, Mrs. Nwankwegu credited him as a key architect behind the College’s recent improvements. She also praised Governor Francis Nwifuru for his commitment to revitalizing the school’s infrastructure and resources.
Among the state government’s approved projects are the construction of a two-story building with an 800-student capacity, a contemporary hostel facility, a new classroom block featuring a ground-floor library, a 20,000-litre overhead water tank, and a borehole with dual capacity to ensure consistent water supply.
“Acquiring a coaster bus is urgent to maintain our accreditation status, as it is a mandatory requirement. Additionally, establishing a reliable solar power system is crucial to sustaining academic activities and enhancing the learning environment,” she emphasized.
Representing the Health Commissioner, Dr. Lawrence Ezeogo, the Permanent Secretary, affirmed the state government’s commitment to advancing healthcare through strategic investments. These include upgrading infrastructure, recruiting qualified medical staff, improving welfare and remuneration packages, and implementing policies designed to attract and retain healthcare professionals.
He lauded the provost and the College’s management team for their dedication and the significant progress achieved within a relatively short timeframe.
“During her address, the Provost highlighted the need for solar power, reliable electricity, a coaster bus, and additional staff. We have taken note of these requests and will present them to His Excellency for consideration,” Dr. Ezeogo stated.
“Moreover, the Ministry of Health is prepared to deploy more personnel on secondment to the College without the need for formal application, ensuring that staffing challenges are promptly addressed,” he added.
