Paragraph 1: A Milestone Convocation at Rivers State University
The Rivers State University is set to celebrate its 36th convocation, a landmark event marking the graduation of 8,920 students. This convocation holds particular significance as it witnesses the graduation of the university’s first cohort of nursing graduates, a testament to the institution’s expanding academic horizons and the robust support provided by the Rivers State Government. Additionally, this convocation is the last presided over by the current Vice-Chancellor, Professor Nlerum Okognule, whose five-year tenure concludes in March 2025. This confluence of events makes the 36th convocation a pivotal moment in the university’s history.
Paragraph 2: Celebrating Academic Excellence and Expanding Disciplines
Among the 8,920 graduating students, 120 have achieved the prestigious distinction of First Class Honours, demonstrating the high academic standards upheld by the university. The introduction of the Nursing program and the impending graduation of the first set of medical doctors in January 2025 signify the university’s commitment to broadening its academic offerings and contributing to critical sectors of the nation’s healthcare system. This expansion is fueled by the continued support from the Rivers State Government, which has been instrumental in the growth and development of the university, particularly the Medical College.
Paragraph 3: Convocation Structure and Addressing Logistical Challenges
To manage the large number of graduating students and ensure a smooth ceremony, the convocation events have been strategically organized across two days. The conferment of Bachelor’s Degrees is scheduled for Friday, December 13, 2024, while the awarding of Higher Degrees, including Postgraduate Diplomas, Master’s Degrees, and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees, will take place on Saturday, December 14, 2024. This division aims to alleviate overcrowding and optimize the time allocated for each segment of the ceremony, ensuring a more efficient and enjoyable experience for all attendees.
Paragraph 4: Engaging with Emerging Trends in Education Through a Convocation Lecture
Preceding the degree conferral ceremonies, a convocation lecture will be delivered on Thursday, December 12, 2024, by Professor Lawal Suleiman, a distinguished academic and former Vice-Chancellor of Usman Dan Fodio University. The lecture, titled "Emerging Technologies in Reshaping the Future of Education and Learning Environment," promises to delve into the transformative potential of technology in education, highlighting the evolving landscape of teaching and learning and the challenges and opportunities presented by these advancements. This thought-provoking lecture sets the stage for the convocation celebrations, focusing on the future of education and the role of institutions like Rivers State University in shaping it.
Paragraph 5: Detailed Breakdown of Graduating Students Across Disciplines and Degree Classifications
A comprehensive breakdown of the graduating class reveals a diverse range of academic achievements. Out of the total 8,920 graduands, 6,912 are undergraduates receiving Bachelor’s degrees, with 120 achieving First Class Honours, 1,962 attaining Second Class Honours Upper Division, 4,017 receiving Second Class Honours Lower Division, 757 obtaining Third Class Honours, and 58 receiving Pass Degrees. In the postgraduate category, 743 students will be awarded Postgraduate Diplomas, 1,195 will receive Master’s degrees, and 274 will be conferred with PhDs. This detailed breakdown highlights the breadth of academic disciplines represented within the graduating class and the university’s commitment to providing diverse educational pathways.
Paragraph 6: Acknowledging Gubernatorial Support and Looking Towards the Future
The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Okognule, expressed deep gratitude to the Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, for his unwavering support, which has been crucial to the university’s ongoing progress and development. The successful implementation of new programs, such as Nursing, and the forthcoming graduation of medical doctors are direct results of this sustained support. As the university concludes its 36th convocation and looks ahead to the future, the emphasis remains on continuing to provide high-quality education, expanding academic offerings, and contributing to the growth and development of the region and the nation. This convocation serves not only as a celebration of past achievements but also as a launchpad for future endeavors, ensuring that Rivers State University continues to thrive as a center of academic excellence.
