keynote Presentation at University of Uyo on their 2024 Students’
I spoke on ‘Leadership Beyond the University System’.
My tenure as President of the Union is reputed for standing up for the welfare of the students even at great personal cost – rustication which was later reduced to one year suspension from the university.
I shared not only the victories but also the lessons from my mistakes – lessons to arm the young leaders with the skills to navigate their journeys effectively.
I charged attendees to see leadership as a journey & not merely a position; to build a vision beyond the campus; to develop transferable skills; build relationships; learn to lead through collaboration; leave a legacy of impact; commit to mentorship and to understand the place of faith in God.
The Bible offers timeless examples of leaders who rose to greatness, not just because of their abilities but because of their deep connection to God. Daniel, David, Esther, Moses among others were men & women of faith who received divine direction for their journeys.
I also emphasized the importance of negotiation and dialogue over confrontation. I shared my experience as President of the University of Uyo Alumni Association, where we successfully appealed to the University’s management to rescind a decision to rusticate some medical students based on justifiable disciplinary reasons. Through constructive engagement, we achieved a resolution, for which I deeply appreciate the leadership of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Nyaudo Ndaeyo.
Lastly, I reminded the student leaders never to lose sight of their primary purpose in the University which is their academics. Leadership and scholarship must go hand in hand.
I congratulate the leadership of the Students’ Union as saddled by the President, Comrade Ndueso Peter for a successful outing today. I thank the Dean of Students, Prof. Etefia for extending the invite to me.
It is my believe that the modest efforts that we have made towards mentoring the next generation of leaders will yield bountiful harvests in time to come.
