By Cynthia Eruotor
Education is one of the prerequisites for growth and development of any given society. This accounts for why for any society to experience rapid growth and development, the people in that society must have acquired knowledge which would serve as spring board for every body to contribute his or her quota in this regard. And this starts from the primary level to secondary and then, the university. Since it is mandatory for primary and secondary schools to be in every community for every child irrespective of his background to attend as stipulated in Nigeria Policy on Education, not all communities in kingdom have higher education to enable the graduands further their Education upon leaving the secondary school.
So, the establishment of higher institution – National Open University, Emevor Study Centre would bring rapid growth and development to not just the community but the kingdom, the state and the country at large. The people both within and outside the kingdom yearning for higher education would have no cause to go far to have access to higher education. The establishment of the Emevor Study Centre is expected to have a profound impact on the community, providing educational opportunities that will foster personal growth, skill development, and socio-economic advancement.
It was against this background that the entire community and Kingdom was thrown into jubilation when the Ivory Tower after its completion, was handed over to the Vice Chancellor of the institution, Prof Olufemi Peters for Commissioning by His Royal Highness, DR. Johnholt Ologho, the Odion of Emevor Kingdom, on the August 8th , 2024. The handover and subsequent commissioning was described by many as unique in its perspective.
In his address, His Royal Highness, DR Johnholt Ologho, the Odion of Emevor Kingdom, said the university signifies a new chapter in the educational journey of Emevor people in bringing enhanced learning opportunities and fostering academic excellence within the Kingdom. The Royal Father who joy was written all his face said, that the presence of distinguished guests and the local populace underscored the profound impact of this initiative, as Emevor embarks on a path towards greater educational empowerment and development.
The Royal Father lauded Professor Peters Olufemi and the entire Principal Officers of the institution for their unwavering commitment in ensuring that his people among others, have access to higher education across Nigeria adding that, establishment of the Emevor Study Centre would provide residents with an invaluable opportunity to pursue tertiary education without the need to travel long distances.
The Monarch’s gratitude to Professor Olufemi and NOUN Management resonates deeply within the community, symbolizing a partnership rooted in the shared goal of educational empowerment and prosperous future for all. He also commended the laudable role played by Former Governor Arthur lfeanyi Okowa and the current Governor RT. Hon Sheriff Oborevwori for constructing the Emevor Orogun Road phase 1 which leads to the Emevor Study Centre of the National Open University of Nigeria.
His words: “Today, we are witnessing the fulfillment of a dream long held by our community. The Emevor Study Centre represents a beacon of hope and progress, ensuring that our youths and adults alike can attain quality education right here in our homeland. We are deeply grateful to Professor Peters Olufemi and the entire Management of National Open University of Nigeria for recognizing the potential of Emevor Kingdom.”
The Emevor Royal Father also extended his heartfelt gratitude to the Chairman of the occasion, Prof Akpotu Chris ,President Isoko Development Union, IDU for his wonderful show of love just as he expressed gratitude for contributions of Emeritus Professor Godwin Sogolo, the 0tukhe of Emevor Kingdom, the facilitator of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), Emevor Study Centre describing him as the architect of Emevor educational system. On his part, Professor Peters Olufemi expressed his gratitude for the warm reception and support he got from Emevor Community adding that, NOUN’s mission is to make education accessible and affordable for all Nigerians irrespective of their geographical locations.
His words: “Our vision at NOUN is to break down barriers to education. The Emevor Study Centre is a testament to our commitment to this vision. We believe that education is the cornerstone of development, and through this centre, we aim to empower individuals to contribute meaningfully to their community and the nation at large”. Professor Olufemi expressed gratitude to HRH Dr. Johnholt Ologho, the Odion of Emevor Kingdom for making the Permanent site of the Emevor Study Center of NOUN possible just as he thanked the Chairman of the occasion, Prof Akpotu Chris, Prof Godwin Sogolo for their efforts for the community to achieve this feat.
Not left out is the Chairman of Isoko North LGA, Hon. Prince Goodwin Ogorugba. He congratulated Emevor people for achieving this feat. Hon. Ogorugba who was represented by Hon. Evelyn Aluta said, it was good thing for study centre to have been commissioned for the day. On his part, the Chairman of occasion Prof. Akpotu Chris said Emevor represents light as he has always come to the community just as he said, he is a product of the James Welsh Grammar School, Emevor.
According to him, the community acknowledges the importance of education hence they welcomed the establishment of the Study Centre in their community adding that, the institution’s existence has placed the community in global economic significance. On his part, Emeritus Professor, Godwin Sogolo the Othuke of Emevor Kingdom who was the facilitator of the institution expressed gratitude to the VC for making the community achieve their educational dreams. According to him, the school came to fruitfulness by the grace of God and thanked God for it.
Earlier in his welcome address, the President General of Emevor Progress Union(EPU),Comrade Teddy Jon Edoso, said they have value for education adding that, since the establishment of the institution, they are overwhelmed with joy. The handover /commissioning event also featured a tour of the new facility, showcasing its modern classrooms, well-equipped computer labs, and resourceful library. Attendees were impressed by the infrastructure and the conducive learning environment designed to facilitate effective study and academic excellence.
The highlight of the programme was cultural performances to celebrate the rich heritage of Emevor, the Monarch’s presentation of awards to the Vice Chancellor, Prof Peters Olufemi, Emeritus Prof. Godwin Sogolo amidst cheers.