The prestigious halls of UNN echoed with mixed emotions as Professor Charles Igwe, the first alumnus to hold the VC position, stepped down on June 7th, 2024. His five-year tenure has been a whirlwind of progress and debate, leaving students and staff alike with a complex legacy to consider.

According to Mark Maxwell, a post-graduate student of special education, "The V.C. has been able to set a landmark that the next administration will have to continue from where he stopped. 

The university witnessed a surge in infrastructure projects, including the new ACE-SPED building, and students laud his efforts at making convocation ceremonies more frequent. Mark emphasizes Prof. Igwe's openness to student concerns, citing an instance where he addressed issues raised by master's students.

However, critical voices also resonate across campus. Mr. Maxwell lamented the lack of a designated waste disposal system, highlighting potential health hazards for students. Ifeanyi Obi, a student from Mass Communication, acknowledged the strides made in infrastructure development, particularly the ongoing construction of the Faculty of Communication complex funded by TETFund. However, Obi expressed frustration with the unreliability of the university's Information and Communication Technology (ICT) infrastructure. Frequent system outages during crucial Computer Based Tests (CBT) exams were a source of immense stress and potential failure for many students.

These contrasting viewpoints reflected the multifaceted impact of Professor Igwe's tenure. While some students lauded his achievements, others yearned for improvement in specific areas. As the university prepares to welcome a new Vice-Chancellor, these discussions are far from over. Social media is abuzz with speculation about the incoming leader, with hopes and anxieties swirling in equal measure.

Will the new leader build upon Prof. Igwe's successes? Will they prioritize the concerns highlighted by students? The coming weeks will be a crucible, shaping the future direction of UNN.

One thing is certain: the Lion of Nsukka, as UNN is affectionately known, is poised for another chapter. Professor Igwe's legacy will serve as a springboard for the future, prompting the university community to strive for continued progress and excellence. The student body, empowered by their voice and a thirst for improvement, will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the university's next chapter.

Published by Ndidiamaka Ede