Maduka University, Ekwegbe-Nsukka, has matriculated 967 students at its third matriculation ceremony, reaffirming its commitment to delivering sustainable quality education tailored to meet the aspirations of parents and equip students as contributors to the development of an entrepreneurial society.
The event, held on Friday at the university’s international stadium, attracted dignitaries from across the South-East geopolitical zone and beyond.
In his remarks, the Chancellor and Founder of the university, Dr. Samuel Maduka Onyishi, emphasized the institution’s dedication to nurturing innovation among students through the deployment of cutting-edge technologies in its training processes.
Drawing inspiration from the book Built to Last, Dr. Onyishi noted that enduring institutions are driven by strong vision and core values. “It is in the spirit of this transformation that we attract quality staff and students who expand the scope of our impact,” he said.
He stressed that the university’s focus is not merely on increasing student numbers but on providing the necessary facilities and environment for effective learning. “The university is not a 100-metre race but a marathon—a continuous process,” he stated, assuring parents and students of the institution’s unwavering commitment to quality education.
Dr. Onyishi congratulated the matriculating students and their parents for their confidence in the university.
Delivering the matriculation lecture, the Enugu State Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, Prof. Samuel Chijioke Ugwu, highlighted education as a critical driver of sustainability across generations.
In his lecture titled “Sustainability and Institutions of the Future: Pathways for Maduka University,” Prof. Ugwu explained that the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are anchored on four interconnected pillars: human sustainability, social sustainability, economic sustainability, and environmental sustainability. According to him, these pillars encompass investments in education, health, equity, economic growth, and environmental responsibility.
“These pillars are not abstract concepts but living realities that must define our institutions,” he said.
Prof. Ugwu stressed that universities play a crucial role in achieving the SDGs, noting that institutional sustainability depends on structure, culture, and disciplined implementation rather than rhetoric. He urged universities to move beyond ceremonial commitments to sustainability and embrace evidence-based, industry-driven, and community-oriented research.
He further emphasized the need for curriculum re-engineering to shift education from memorization to innovation. “Universities must produce solutions, not just certificates,” he said.
Highlighting the future of higher education, Prof. Ugwu stated that institutions would be defined not merely by their infrastructure but by the character and competence of their graduates. He commended Maduka University for its strides in environmental management, community engagement, and infrastructural development, while cautioning that sustainability requires continuous improvement.
“Sustainability is not a slogan; it is a disciplined continuity. It is the decision to build today without destroying tomorrow,” he added, urging stakeholders to work collaboratively to translate the SDGs into measurable local outcomes.
He encouraged the matriculating students to develop critical thinking, responsible innovation, and ethical service.
Earlier, the Vice-Chancellor of Maduka University, Prof. Charles Ogbulogo, described the institution’s philosophy as “new thinking,” aimed at producing entrepreneurs capable of shaping their environment and driving progress.
He noted that the university’s learner-centered approach, supported by robust teaching methodologies and industry-informed curricula, fosters academic excellence. According to him, students are also trained in decision-making and leadership, with emphasis on inclusiveness and strategic thinking.
Prof. Ogbulogo highlighted the university’s achievements, noting that students on industrial placements have received positive evaluations, while pharmacy students have excelled in professional competitions.
He expressed appreciation to the matriculation lecturer for delivering a lecture that would significantly influence the university’s operational direction and welcomed the new students, their parents, and sponsors to the institution’s transformative journey.