Origins of Ebonyi State University
The establishment of Ebonyi State University emerged from the deep-rooted ambitions of Ebonyi State’s inhabitants who were keen on enhancing educational standards and fostering scholarly research within their community. This initiative was driven by more than mere aspiration; it was a critical response to the historically overlooked educational sector in Ebonyi.
The origins of Ebonyi State University are linked to the decisions made by the Military Administration of Anambra State, which were later upheld by Chief Jim Nwobodo’s civilian government. On July 30, 1980, the Anambra State Government initiated Nigeria’s first University of Science and Technology, originally named Anambra State University of Science and Technology (ASUTECH), through the enactment of law number 7 of 1980.
Early Developments
ASUTECH originally operated with a quad-campus system, positioning its Faculties of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine in Abakaliki. The educational journey in Abakaliki began in November 1987, marked by the enrollment of a pioneering group of 55 students and the engagement of 15 academic staff. A significant milestone for the Abakaliki campus was in the academic year of 1991/1992, when it celebrated the graduation of its inaugural class of students.
Further expanding its educational footprint, the university established a Pre-Science program at the Abakaliki campus in 1987. This move reinforced the university’s dedication to advancing education in science and technology.
Creation of Ebonyi State
Following a series of political transformations, 1996 marked the formation of Ebonyi State, which incorporated the Abakaliki extension of the existing ESUT. This branch experienced an elevation in status, becoming the Ebonyi State University College in 1998, as ordained by Ebonyi State’s Edict number 5, yet it continued its association with ESUT.
Prof. Fidelis Ogah, who previously served as the Deputy Vice-Chancellor of ESUT, was appointed as the inaugural Rector of the college. In 1997, the academic offerings expanded with the introduction of the Faculty of Applied and Natural Sciences, comprising eight departments, thereby broadening the educational horizons of the university.
Establishment as a Multi-disciplinary University
In 1999, a pivotal development occurred when Governor Sam Ominyi Egwu declared the transformation of the university college into a comprehensive, multidisciplinary university. This proclamation signified the independent standing of Ebonyi State University and led to the establishment of four new faculties, namely Arts, Education, Management, and Social Sciences.
Additional Faculties and Programs
- In the year 2000, advancements continued with the establishment of the Faculty of Law, School of Postgraduate Studies, Work and Study Programme (WASP), and weekend programs for working professionals;
- In 2002, the university extended its healthcare education with the creation of the Faculty of Health Sciences and Technology, which initiated programs in Nursing Sciences and Medical Laboratory Sciences in the 2002/2003 academic year.
Governance and Leadership
In terms of governance, the university’s 3rd Governing Council was inaugurated in December 2008, under the stewardship of His Excellency, Dr. Emmanuel Oko Isu. Prof Francis Igboji Idike took over the reins as the new Vice-Chancellor in January 2009, succeeding the inaugural Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Fidelis Ogah.
The University Today and Future Prospects
Today, Ebonyi State University continues to grow and expand, offering a wide array of programs and disciplines. It has evolved into a beacon of educational excellence in Nigeria, continually fostering intellectual growth, research, and innovation. Future prospects include further expansion of academic programs, infrastructural development, and fostering international collaborations to offer world-class education to its students.
Conclusion
The creation and progression of Ebonyi State University are testaments to the indomitable will of the Ebonyi people. Despite the initial educational backwardness, the state has not only caught up with others but is steadily positioning itself as a leader in tertiary education in Nigeria. The history of Ebonyi State University is indeed a journey of resilience, growth, and transformation, which continues to inspire us even today.