NDDC chair wants special matriculation exam for UI, UNILAG, others

THE immediate past  Vice-Chancellor of the Niger Delta University (NDU), Prof Chris Ikporukpo has been honoured by the  University of Ibadan Alumni Association (UNIAA), Bayelsa State Branch, which organised a send-off party in his honour. 

  An elated Ikporukpo proposed a prize for the best student in the state as another alumnus, Dr Tarila Tebepah, Chairman, Niger Delta Development Commission (NDCC) also proposed a separate matriculation exam for the prominent universities in Nigeria.

Ikporukpo said the prize, which should be called the 'University of Ibadan (UI), Bayelsa State branch prize for the best student' should be awarded to the best graduating student every year by the Bayelsa State Chapter of the alumni body.

While thanking the old students for encouraging him to stabilise NDU, he noted that it led to the establishment of "a University Culture.”

"I thank the alumni, government and People of Bayelsa State for encouraging us to establish the culture", he said.

Describing himself as an ambassador of the University of Ibadan wherever he is, Ikporukpo said he would continue to do everything possible to ensure that the presence of UI was maintained in the state. 

Also speaking, Tebepah praised Ikporukpo for developing NDU from 'grass to grace', noting the great achievements by most alumni of the university in all areas of endeavour.

Given its status, Tebepah proposed a special matriculation examination for candidates applying to his alma mater as well as other prominent universities in the country.

"Time has come  when University of Ibadan and some  other prominent universities including  ABU Zaria, OAU, University of Benin, University of Lagos and University of  Ibadan to have a joint  Universities Matriculation Examination", said Tebepah, who explained that the gesture would assist in producing excellence  and the production of students that will  help in the development of Nigeria.

"I think it will be better for the country because we will have graduates who will come out to help Nigeria. We need to encourage our children to go schools outside the state. If we don't allow children to attend UI, you are not fair to them," he added.

Bayelsa State Governor, Serinake Dickson, represented by his Deputy, Rear Admiral John Jonah (rtd), noted that the standard of education is not as bad as people say.

He, however, noted that the state has put in place some measures to address the situation including reviving the Bayelsa State College of Arts and Science to give the educationally-disadvantaged better opportunities.

Highlight of the event was the conferment of the award of 'Worthy Alumni 'on Dr. Grace Koroye, who was absent.