Maduka University matriculates 967 students, reaffirms commitment to sustainable quality education

Michael Olumide

Maduka University, Ekwegbe-Nsukka, has matriculated 967 students at its third matriculation ceremony, reaffirming its commitment to delivering sustainable, quality education designed to meet the expectations of parents and prepare students as key contributors to an entrepreneurial society.

The ceremony, held on Friday at the university’s international stadium, drew dignitaries from across the South-East and other parts of the country, underscoring the institution’s growing influence in Nigeria’s higher education landscape.

In his address, the Chancellor and Founder, Dr. Samuel Maduka Onyishi, emphasised the university’s vision of nurturing innovation through the deployment of modern technologies in teaching and learning.

Drawing inspiration from the book Built to Last, Onyishi noted that enduring institutions are built on strong vision and core values. He stated that the university continues to attract quality staff and students who are expanding its impact and relevance.

“Our focus is not just about increasing student population, but about providing the right facilities and environment for effective learning,” he said. “The university is not a 100-metre race but a marathon—a continuous process.”

He assured parents and students of the institution’s unwavering commitment to maintaining high standards while congratulating the new students and their families for choosing Maduka University.

Delivering the matriculation lecture, the Enugu State Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, Prof. Samuel Chijioke Ugwu, highlighted education as a fundamental driver of sustainability across generations.

Speaking on the topic, “Sustainability and Institutions of the Future: Pathways for Maduka University,” Ugwu explained that the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are anchored on four interconnected pillars: human, social, economic, and environmental sustainability.

According to him, these pillars encompass investments in education, healthcare, equity, economic growth, and environmental responsibility.

“These pillars are not abstract concepts but living realities that must define our institutions,” he said.

Ugwu stressed the critical role universities play in achieving the SDGs, noting that true institutional sustainability depends on structure, culture, and disciplined implementation rather than mere rhetoric.

He urged universities to move beyond ceremonial commitments and embrace evidence-based, industry-driven, and community-oriented research.

He also called for a shift in academic curricula from rote learning to innovation-driven education.

“Universities must produce solutions, not just certificates,” he stated.

Speaking on the future of higher education, Ugwu noted that institutions would increasingly be judged not by their physical infrastructure but by the competence and character of their graduates.

While commending Maduka University for its progress in environmental management, community engagement, and infrastructure development, he cautioned that sustainability requires continuous improvement.

“Sustainability is not a slogan; it is a disciplined continuity. It is the decision to build today without destroying tomorrow,” he added.

He further encouraged the matriculating students to embrace critical thinking, responsible innovation, and ethical service as guiding principles throughout their academic journey.

Earlier, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Charles Ogbulogo, described the university’s guiding philosophy as “new thinking,” aimed at producing entrepreneurs capable of shaping their environment and driving societal progress.

He explained that the institution’s learner-centred approach, supported by robust teaching methods and industry-informed curricula, is designed to foster academic excellence and practical competence.

According to him, students are equipped with decision-making and leadership skills, with a strong emphasis on inclusiveness, innovation, and strategic thinking.

Highlighting recent achievements, Ogbulogo disclosed that students on industrial placements have received commendations from employers, while pharmacy students have distinguished themselves in professional competitions.

He expressed appreciation to the guest lecturer for delivering a thought-provoking lecture that would help shape the university’s future direction, while also welcoming the new students, their parents, and sponsors to what he described as a transformative academic journey.

The matriculation ceremony marks another milestone in Maduka University’s steady growth, reinforcing its ambition to position itself as a hub for sustainable, innovation-driven education in Nigeria.