Academic life has returned to a Community Study Centre belonging to the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) in Imo State, which was set on fire by hoodlums two months ago.
Ibrahim Sheme, Director of Media and Publicity at NOUN, made this known in a statement on Thursday in Abuja.
Recall that the Study Centre, located in Ezeoke Nsu, Ehime Mbano Local Government Area of Imo State, was set ablaze by unknown hoodlums on September 30. This act was allegedly in response to rumors that the Centre would be used by the Federal Government to house internally displaced persons from a section of the country.
According to the statement, the Acting Director of the Study Centre, Dr. John Onyemauche Oparaduru, said in an interview that the facility has undergone a remarkable transformation, demonstrating resilience and determination following the challenges it faced earlier this year.
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He added that academic vibrancy has returned to the Centre under the decisive leadership of NOUN Vice-Chancellor, Professor Olufemi Peters, who showed unwavering commitment to its restoration.
Oparaduru, while commending the VC’s assurance in the aftermath of the incident, also noted that the Centre was quickly rebuilt through the University management’s emergency intervention efforts and the goodwill of the local community, which ensured the facility was restored to full operational capacity in record time.
He said: “Timely repairs paved the way for the Centre to participate in the ongoing 2024 pen-on-paper examinations. This achievement stands as a testament to the resilience of the Nsu Community Study Centre and the collective resolve of all stakeholders.”
According to him, the Centre is bustling with activity as students eagerly participate in the exams in an atmosphere filled with excitement and gratitude.
The students, many of whom had previously feared that their academic pursuits would be disrupted due to the arson, expressed profound joy at being able to take their exams within the restored facility.
The director explained that leaders and members of the Nsu community shared in this collective triumph, applauding the university’s leadership for its quick response and dedication to education.
He said: “Professor Olufemi Peters’ leadership has been pivotal in this success story of hope and recovery. His prompt action in dispatching a delegation to assess the damage, engaging with the local community, and prioritizing the restoration of the Centre ensured that it is back on track, fulfilling its purpose as a beacon of education in the region.”
Oparaduru emphasized that the sight of students sitting for their exams today symbolizes not only a return to normalcy but also a renewed sense of purpose and achievement for all involved.
He said that as the Centre moves forward, its story serves as an inspiration and evidence that the university remains committed to fostering an environment where education thrives despite challenges, and that the community stands as a proud partner in this mission.
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