PHOTOS: UNIZIK’s Mathematics department inducts new students, celebrates excellence
By Johnbosco, Faustina, Epiphanus
The department of Mathematics, faculty of physical sciences at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) in Awka, Anambra state, recently held its induction ceremony for 100-level students.
The event, organised by the executives of the department, was focused on equipping the inductees with skills expected of a Mathematics student.
Tagged ‘think different’, the induction ceremony held on 8th August, 2024 at the Mathematics hall of the institution.
A total of 26 students were inducted, while over 15 other students were awarded for their academic excellence in the previous session.
Promise Johnson, a software engineer and the first speaker at the event, spoke on the relationship between software engineering and Mathematics. He urged the students to also pursue a career in software engineering.
Eric Ofoedu, a professor of the department and the second speaker, in his speech, highlighted the importance of engaging in lucrative and honest side hustles, which he tagged ‘plan B’.
According to Ofoedu, the chase for plan B should be done while one is pursuing excellence in academics which is the plan A.
Ofoedu also condemned the japa syndrome in the country and advised the participants to focus on building their own country first.
On his part, Austin Nduabuiwe, the department’s staff adviser, led the inductees through their oath of induction.
The event reached its climax during the award ceremony for academic excellence. Certificates were presented to both the current executives and students who achieved a cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of above 4.0 in the last academic session. Among them, Lazarus Okechukwu, a 400-level student with an outstanding CGPA of 4.86, emerged as the best student for the 2022/2023 academic session.
A second lecture was given on “Mathematics concepts” by Ahuchukwu Chibuuke, Okafor Antonia and Levi Nwuba. The Head of the Department of mathematics, Dr.Agatha Nnubia, advised the inductees to always abide by rules.
The event was graced by the head of department, lecturers, representatives of the student union government and a host of other students.
In a post-event interview, Emmanuel Onyekachi, the president of the department expressed his satisfaction on the turnout of the event while conveying his gratitude to the facilitators and participants of the event.
Similarly, Amarachi Udeh, the class representative of the inducted students, told campus reporters that she has always been committed to the goal of graduating with a nice result.
Udeh also advised prospective students aspiring to join the department to ensure they have a genuine desire to become mathematicians. She emphasized that if they are admitted, they should remain dedicated and avoid any reliance on cheating.
Reflecting on his journey, Lazarus noted that succeeding in the department requires discipline, a clear sense of purpose, and the achievement of goals. He advised the students, saying, “The journey is always tough when you’re climbing up, but set your goals, work hard to achieve them, and you will be fine.”
Below are photos from the event: