The University of Calabar’s academic community was once again ignited with pageantry and deep nostalgia as it celebrated its 50th Anniversary and 37th Convocation Ceremony at the International Conference Center of the university on Thursday March 20, 2025.
In his welcome address, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Banku Obi, congratulated the 1998 Law Class, of which the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, CON, is an alumnus. He commended the class for their contributions to the development of their alma mater and their sustained efforts toward the growth and advancement of the university.
Call for Education Reform
Delivering his convocation lecture titled: “Our Gown in Town and in Cyberspace: Sustainable and Human-Centered Education, The Mandate of Our Universities, 2025-2075,” the Deputy Speaker emphasized the need for Nigerian universities to transition from theoretical learning to a skills-based education model that aligns with global best practices.
He highlighted the urgent need for curriculum reform, stressing that systematic skills-based education is essential to bridging the industry skills gap currently created by outdated learning methods. Quoting Alvin Toffler, he noted: “The illiterate of the 21st century will not be those who cannot read and write, but those who cannot learn, unlearn, and relearn.”
Hon. Kalu further stressed that the education sector and key stakeholders must drive sustainable reforms that will help Nigeria reduce its dependence on imported raw materials, address institutional redundancy, and break sectoral cycles of stagnation. He advocated for a shift toward technology-driven education, leveraging innovations such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Robotics, Telemedicine, Global Positioning Systems (GPS), and Sensor Technology to develop a proactive and resourceful workforce.
Legislative Support for Academic and Economic Growth
Hon. Kalu reaffirmed that legislative interventions must support the transformation of universities into centers of innovation, rather than leaving them as isolated ivory towers. He emphasized that the Nigerian Parliament is committed to enacting policies that foster a modernized education system—one that produces graduates equipped to drive national development.
Senate President Applauds Deputy Speaker’s Vision
In his remarks, Senate President, Distinguished Senator Godswill Akpabio, GCON, commended Hon. Benjamin Kalu and the 1998 Law Class for their unity, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the nation’s progress. He described the Deputy Speaker as a game-changer in Nigerian legislation, whose efforts in the 10th National Assembly have significantly advanced the policy agenda of the current administration.
Sen. Akpabio also called for peace and collaboration within the academic community, urging students to remain resilient and committed to excellence. Drawing from his own experiences, he acknowledged the challenges within the education system while encouraging the university’s management to sustain its ongoing reforms.
Honors and Recognitions
In recognition of his insightful convocation lecture and contributions to national development, the Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Alhaji Ado Bayaro, presented an Award of Honor to Hon. Benjamin Kalu and other distinguished awardees. The Chancellor commended their passion for nation-building, urging leaders at all levels to prioritize peace and development for the collective progress of society.
Dignitaries in Attendance
The prestigious event was attended by top government officials, lawmakers, and prominent figures, including:
- Rt. Hon. Peter Odey – Acting Governor of Cross River State
- Sen. Godswill Akpabio, GCON – President of the Senate
- Mrs. Unoma Ekaette Akpabio – Wife of the Senate President
- Sen. Asuquo Ekpenyong – Senator, Cross River State
- Hon. Amobi Ogah – Member, House of Representatives
- Hon. Ibe Okwara – Member, House of Representatives
- Hon. Munachim Alozie – Member, House of Representatives
- Rt. Hon. Henry Nwawuba – Executive Secretary, National Assembly Library Trust Fund (NALTF)
- Rt. Hon. Stanley Ohajuruka – Executive Director, Finance, South East Development Commission
- Rt. Hon. Martins Azubuike – South East Representative, FCT Civil Service Commission
- Chief Daniel Akwari – Federal Commissioner & Abia Representative, South East Development Commission
- DIG Udom Ekpo Udom (Rtd.) – Pro-Chancellor, University of Calabar
- Captains of Industry and Other Distinguished Leaders
The 50th Anniversary and 37th Convocation Ceremony of the University of Calabar not only celebrated academic excellence but also reinforced the urgent call for curriculum reform and educational transformation—a vision strongly advocated by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Okezie Kalu and backed by legislative action for a sustainable and technologically driven future.
Reported by: Bond Ike Udeagha, Information Officer – National Assembly Library Trust Fund
