From June 30 to July 11, 2025, the University of Port Harcourt marked a series of significant academic and administrative developments, according to details released by the Office of the Vice-Chancellor.
Among the highlights, Professor Kalu Wosu, Director of the Confucius Centre, was selected to present a consolidated report on behalf of Nigerian university delegates at a conference in China.
“His selection reflects the growing profile of our institution in international academic circles,” said the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Owunari A. Georgewill.
The University also held its 487th Senate meeting alongside the 19th Valedictory Session, honouring retiring professors who had reached the age of 70. The Senate paid tribute to their contributions, citing years of committed service. Among those recognised were Professors Joseph A. Ajienka, Philomena E. Ejele, and Nwadiuto A. Akani, among others.
“These scholars shaped academic generations and strengthened our institutional legacy,” the Vice-Chancellor noted.
In a move to enhance experiential learning, the SIWES unit convened a one-day workshop focused on improving the administration and evaluation of the industrial training scheme. It drew participation from management, faculty, and students. “A responsive SIWES program is central to the preparedness of our graduates,” Georgewill said.
Further reinforcing its research mandate, the University hosted delegations from HYPREP and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) to explore collaborative research on public health impacts of oil pollution in Ogoniland. “The visit is timely,” the Vice-Chancellor said, expressing optimism about long-term partnerships.
Elsewhere, a team led by Professor Uzoma D. Chima was selected for a capacity development programme by the Higher Education Foundation after a competitive global process. “Their selection speaks to the quality of talent nurtured here,” Georgewill added.
The University also received the Rivers State chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association for consultations on internal matters concerning its members. Discussions, according to the Vice-Chancellor, were “productive and forward-looking.”
In a related development, the Registrar of the Nigerian Institute of Science Laboratory Technology inducted new graduates from the School of Science Laboratory Technology. Five of the inductees graduated with first-class honours. An Award of Excellence was presented to the University Management at the event in recognition of its sustained support.
“We commend the Acting Dean and his team for their dedication,” said Georgewill.
Meanwhile, registration for the 2025/2026 Post-UTME exercise is underway. Candidates who selected UNIPORT as their first choice are advised to register via the University’s website. The national minimum score for eligibility remains 150, as set by JAMB at its recent policy meeting.
In infrastructure, the bidding process for the planned Engineering Innovation Centre was completed by NLNG, with contractors expected to move to the site shortly.
“This project marks a step forward in expanding our technical capacity,” Georgewill commented.
The College of Health Sciences also presented an Award of Appreciation to the University Management for its continued support. In response, the Vice-Chancellor emphasised the importance of institutional cooperation in sustaining progress.
“We value the contributions of staff across units during this period,” Georgewill concluded. “Their work remains essential to the University’s vision.”