By Raphael Okhiria
After a successful eight-year reign as the pioneer Vice Chancellor of Edo State University, Uzairue (EDSU), Prof. Emmanuel Aluyor, on Tuesday took a dignified bow out of the university system.
Prof Aluyor, who officially bowed out at a valedictory session at the Senate chamber of the institution, received encomiums by the Management of the institution.
The Acting Vice Chancellor of the institution, Prof. Dawood Egbefo, lauded the leadership qualities of the Ex-VC in the last eight years and six months and wished him well in his future endeavours.
Prof Egbefo described his predecessor as a distinguished Nigerian academic per excellence, noting that the tenure of Prof Aluyor witnessed growth and development in the school.
“I am honored to stand before you today as the newly appointed Acting Vice- Chancellor, I am deeply grateful for the trust and confidence placed in me, and I am committed to leading our institution with dedication, integrity, and a collaborative spirit during this transitional period”, he said.
The Acting Vice Chancellor expressed his sincere thanks to the Executive Governor and Visitor to the University, Mr. Godwin Nogheghase Obaseki, for finding him worthy to take on this significant task.
“I also extend my heartfelt gratitude to the pioneer Vice-Chancellor of Edo State University Uzairue, Engr. Prof. Emmanuel O. Aluyor, for entrusting me with this responsibility.
“I am fully aware of the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, and I pledge to work diligently with all of you to ensure our continued success and growth,” he assured.
The Acting VC noted that university had long been a beacon of academic excellence, innovation, teaching, research, and community engagement during the tenure of Emmanuel Aluyor and promised to sustained it.
“Today, as we embark on this new chapter together, I would like to focus on three guiding principles that will shape our approach: Collaboration, Resilience, and Vision.
“The strength of our university lies in our ability to work together, leveraging our collective expertise and diverse perspectives. I am committed to fostering an environment of open communication and mutual respect. By collaborating closely, we can make informed decisions that benefit our entire community.
Prof Egbefo, encouraged each and everyone to share their ideas, concerns, and suggestions openly, as their inputs are crucial to the success adding that in an ever-changing world, our ability to adapt and thrive is paramount.
“We will face challenges, but I am confident that our resilience will see us through. Together, we will find innovative solutions, remain flexible in our approaches, and support one another in overcoming obstacles.
He called for team work to develop and implement strategies that will position the university as a leader in education, research, and community service.
“To our esteemed Senate members, your role in shaping the future of our university is critical. Your leadership, wisdom, and commitment are essential to our success. I look forward to working closely with you, valuing your insights, and supporting your efforts to enhance our institution.
“As your Acting Vice-Chancellor. I look forward to our collaborative efforts and to the many accomplishments we will achieve together”, Egbefo stated.
Responding, Prof Emmanuel Aluyor thanked the management and staff for the praises and their support for him to succeed during his tenure.
Prof Aluyor called on the management and staff to cooperate with the new acting VC to enable him also succeed.
“I want to appeal to you people to cooperate and offer a greater support to the new VC so that the university can grow higher and higher,” Aluyor said.