Labour Party’s 2023 Presidential Candidate, Mr Peter Obi, has called on physiology graduates to forge connections between science and society, highlighting the significance of a holistic education that merges scientific knowledge with philosophy and the arts. 

Addressing the 2024 Valedictory Session for Physiology Graduates at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Okofia, Nnewi, through his media adviser Mr Valentine Obienyem, Obi urged the graduates to emulate the Indian approach of acquiring knowledge abroad and applying it back home for Nigeria’s progress.

Obi emphasised the importance of STEM education but also urged the graduates “to dedicate time to reading great works of literature, philosophy, and history to become well-rounded scholars”. He reminded them that their alma mater would always be a part of them and encouraged them “to make a positive impact on society”.

The event was part of the university’s efforts to produce graduates who can make a meaningful contribution to society. The graduates were charged to use their knowledge “to tackle the challenges facing Nigeria and to build bridges between science and society”.

Speaking at the event, the Dean of the Faculty of Biochemistry and Environmental Toxicology, Prof. Aloysius Okpogba, and the Head of Human Physiology, Dr. Uchechukwu Dimkpa, expressed optimism that the new graduates will use the knowledge they have gained to contribute to society.

Other speakers at the event included Chief George Muoghalu and Chief Ugoezu J. Ugoezu. All of them charged the new graduates to strive hard and repay the debt they owe their parents, the school, themselves, and society.

The high point of the event was the induction ceremony of the new graduates into clinical physiology conducted by Mr Ugochukwu Okeke, the president of the Professional Association of Practicing Clinical Physiologists in Nigeria (PAPCPN), represented by Mrs. Nneka Eluaka Okompu.

The Vice Chancellor and Igwe Orizu of Nnewi were represented at the event.