The management of the University of Benin, UNIBEN, on Thursday said its prizes awarded to best graduating students of the institution were instituted over 50 years ago.
Arogidigba Global Journal reports that Benedicta Ehanire, the Public Relations Officer of the institution disclosed this while reacting to criticism of the meagre prizes awarded to best graduating students of the school.
A statement signed by the PRO and made available to newsmen in Benin City said the awards sponsored by well meaning and public spirited persons over fifty years ago are still running.
She opined that the objectives of recognising and rewarding excellence have guided the perpetuation of the awards, rather than consideration of the monetary value.
“The attention of the Management of the University of Benin has been drawn to reports in respect of the supposed meagre prizes awarded to some of the University’s best performing students.
“The University explains that whereas the said awards were sponsored by well meaning and public spirited persons over fifty years ago and still running, the objectives of recognising and rewarding excellence have guided the perpetuation of the awards, rather than consideration of the monetary value.
“Management appreciates the concerns expressed over the issue and states that it will continue to work towards upholding the good image and reputation of the Institution,” she said.
Arogidigba Global Journal reports that one of the best graduating students in the just concluded convocation ceremony of the university was awarded the sum of N5000.
The student, Ogheneochuko Okpako, emerged the best graduating student in the 2021/2022 academic session of the department of mechanical engineering.
He graduated with a CGPA of 4.80/5.0.