The University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), is set to celebrate its 54th convocation, marking a significant milestone in its academic journey. The convocation ceremonies, commencing on July 22, 2025, with a press briefing at the Enugu campus, will witness the graduation of 9,821 students with first degrees and diplomas, alongside 1,892 postgraduate students receiving higher degrees and diplomas. This impressive cohort of graduates reflects the university’s commitment to academic excellence and its contribution to national development through the production of highly skilled individuals. The convocation serves as a testament to the dedication of the students, faculty, and staff who have collectively worked to achieve academic success.
A highlight of this year’s convocation is the remarkable number of students graduating with First Class Honours. A total of 167 students achieved this prestigious distinction, showcasing their exceptional academic prowess and dedication to their studies. This accomplishment speaks volumes about the quality of education provided by UNN and the caliber of students it attracts. In addition to the First Class Honours recipients, the graduating class includes 3,485 students with Second Class Honours (Upper Division), 5,217 with Second Class Honours (Lower Division), 739 with Third Class Honours, 33 with Pass degrees, and 180 with Unclassified degrees. This diverse range of results demonstrates the university’s commitment to providing educational opportunities for students of varying academic strengths.
The postgraduate graduating class comprises 616 Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) graduates, 1,101 Master of Science (MSc) graduates, and 133 Master of Business Administration (MBA) graduates. These advanced degrees represent the culmination of years of rigorous research and study, equipping graduates with the specialized knowledge and skills to contribute meaningfully to their chosen fields. The significant number of postgraduate graduates further underscores UNN’s dedication to fostering advanced research and scholarship within its academic community.
The convocation lecture, scheduled for July 24, 2025, promises to be a thought-provoking event. Mr. Ukandu Eme Ukandu, the MD/CEO of Firstcap Limited and Chairman of First City Monument Bank, will deliver a lecture titled “Educated to Rise: From Struggle to Global Strength.” This topic resonates with the challenges and opportunities facing graduates in today’s dynamic global landscape, emphasizing the importance of education in empowering individuals to overcome adversity and achieve success on a global scale. Mr. Ukandu’s extensive experience in the financial sector provides a valuable perspective on the role of education in driving economic growth and societal progress.
Professor Oguejiofor Ujam, the Acting Vice-Chancellor whose six-month tenure concludes the following month, presided over the press briefing and highlighted key achievements of his administration. Among these is the establishment of the Directorate of Grants and Scholarships. This initiative aims to bolster the university’s ability to secure external funding for research projects and student scholarships, ultimately enhancing the institution’s research capabilities and providing greater opportunities for students to pursue their academic aspirations. By actively seeking external funding, UNN demonstrates its commitment to remaining at the forefront of knowledge creation and dissemination, contributing to the advancement of various fields of study.
The creation of the Directorate of Grants and Scholarships is a strategic move to strengthen UNN’s research and academic profile. By securing external funding, the university can invest in cutting-edge research projects, attract renowned scholars, and provide financial support to deserving students. This will not only enhance the quality of education and research at UNN but also contribute to its overall reputation as a leading institution of higher learning. The directorate’s efforts will play a crucial role in fostering a vibrant intellectual environment that supports innovation and academic excellence, ensuring UNN’s continued relevance and impact on the global stage. The convocation ceremony as a whole is a celebration of academic accomplishment and a testament to the transformative power of education.
