Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU) Announces Rescheduling of 9th Inaugural Lecture
The Management of Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU) wishes to bring to the attention of all members of the University community—including staff, students, stakeholders, and the general public—that the 9th Inaugural Lecture of the institution has been rescheduled. This announcement is made under the directive of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Otoabasi E. Akpan, to ensure full participation by members of the University and the wider public in the event.
The Inaugural Lecture is an essential academic milestone in the life of the University, serving as a platform for scholarly discourse, knowledge dissemination, and engagement with pressing societal issues. It also provides an opportunity for the University to showcase its commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and community development.
Details of the Rescheduled Lecture
The 9th Inaugural Lecture will now take place as follows:
- Inaugural Lecturer: Professor Edna A. Akpan
- New Date: Monday, March 23, 2026
- Time: 2:00 p.m.
- Venue: Senate Building, Main Campus, Ikot Akpaden, Mkpat Enin Local Government Area
The Vice-Chancellor, on behalf of the Senate, has extended a cordial invitation to the general public, staff, students, and stakeholders to attend this prestigious academic event. The lecture promises to be a highly engaging session, where Professor Edna A. Akpan will present her scholarly insights, fostering intellectual growth and inspiring both students and academics alike.
Reason for Rescheduling
The rescheduling of the lecture has been necessitated by the upcoming public holiday in observance of Eid-el-Fitr. As declared by the Federal Government, Thursday, March 19, 2026, and Friday, March 20, 2026, are official public holidays to mark the end of the Ramadan fast. The University management, in consideration of the need for both staff and students to participate in these celebrations, deemed it necessary to adjust the lecture schedule to a later date.
The University sincerely regrets any inconvenience this change may cause to participants who had already planned to attend. However, this adjustment ensures that the lecture receives full attendance and engagement, reflecting the importance of the event in the academic calendar of AKSU.
Significance of the Inaugural Lecture
Inaugural Lectures at AKSU serve multiple critical purposes:
- Academic Contribution: They provide a platform for distinguished faculty members to present their research, scholarship, and professional insights. These lectures contribute to the intellectual environment of the University and add to the body of knowledge in the lecturer’s field of specialization.
- Knowledge Sharing: Through the lecture, students, staff, and the public gain access to current research findings, best practices, and innovations, thereby enhancing learning and professional development.
- Community Engagement: Inaugural Lectures also function as a bridge between the University and the wider community. They present opportunities to address societal challenges, propose solutions, and inspire youth and professionals in related disciplines.
- Recognition of Academic Excellence: The lecture acknowledges the dedication, expertise, and contributions of the lecturer. It serves as a formal recognition of scholarly achievement within the University.
Expectations for Participants
All attendees are encouraged to:
- Arrive at the venue well ahead of time, as the lecture is scheduled to start at 2:00 p.m.
- Observe proper decorum throughout the lecture, as befitting an academic event of this magnitude.
- Engage thoughtfully with the content of the lecture, taking notes and participating in any interactive discussions or Q&A sessions.
- Promote the spirit of academic inquiry, mutual respect, and learning by sharing insights and observations with peers and colleagues.
The University expects maximum participation from staff, students, and members of the public, emphasizing the value of this lecture as a platform for learning, networking, and intellectual engagement.
University Advisory
The University Management has put measures in place to ensure the smooth execution of the lecture. Security personnel, administrative staff, and volunteers will be on hand to facilitate orderly entry, seating, and exit of all participants.
The Management also requests that all members of the University community and the public adhere to the revised schedule, as failure to comply may result in logistical challenges or missed opportunities for participation.
Conclusion
The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Otoabasi E. Akpan, together with the University Senate, expresses gratitude to all staff, students, and stakeholders for their understanding and cooperation regarding the rescheduling. The 9th Inaugural Lecture is a significant academic and social event, and the University looks forward to hosting an engaging, intellectually stimulating, and memorable session on Monday, March 23, 2026.
The University regrets any inconvenience caused by the change of date and assures all participants that this adjustment is in the best interest of the University community. The lecture promises to be an outstanding opportunity for knowledge acquisition, scholarly interaction, and professional development.
Issued by:
Dr. Ebi G. Eno-Ibanga, FNIM
Registrar, Akwa Ibom State University