The University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN), a federal institution of national prominence, has long upheld its status as a centre of academic excellence, integrity, and inclusivity. As the convocation election for representatives in the Governing Council approaches, it is essential to highlight the administration’s efforts to ensure a transparent, inclusive, and forward-looking electoral process.
The Governing Council is the highest decision-making body of the university, representing diverse constituencies, including convocation. Under the leadership of the Acting Vice Chancellor, Professor Polycarp Emeka Chigbu, elections into these critical positions have consistently adhered to the principles of fairness and due process.
Professor Chigbu has exhibited a remarkable capacity to organise free, fair, and credible elections, as evidenced by the successful conduct of the recent senate and congregation elections. His commitment to enhancing the electoral process is further exemplified by his innovative approach to digitising the upcoming Convocation Election, ensuring greater transparency and efficiency in the electoral proceedings with broader participation of members.
REVOLUTIONIZING ELECTORAL PARTICIPATION THROUGH DIGITAL INNOVATION
In recognition of UNN’s vast and globally dispersed alumni network, the administration has implemented a digital platform to facilitate the convocation election. This bold step ensures accessibility and inclusivity for all alumni, irrespective of geographical location, empowering alumni in Nigeria and the diaspora to actively participate in shaping the future of their alma mater.
Historically, convocation elections have recorded an abysmal participation rate. Out of over 10 million graduates of the university, fewer than 500 alumni vote in these elections, a turnout of less than 0.001%. Such low engagement undermines the representativeness and effectiveness of the process.
The decision to digitize the election is a groundbreaking initiative aimed at addressing this challenge. By leveraging technology, the university is creating an electoral process that is transparent, participatory, and reflective of its diverse alumni community. This transition will enable alumni from across Nigeria and around the globe to actively engage in the governance of their alma mater, ensuring broader participation and stronger alumni involvement.
Additionally, conducting the election online will:
Save Time: Alumni can cast their votes from the comfort of their homes or offices without the need to travel to the university.
Reduce Stress: The online process eliminates the logistical challenges and physical strain associated with in-person voting.
Cut Costs: The digital platform significantly reduces expenses related to organizing physical elections, such as transportation, venue preparation, and manual vote counting.
Enhance Security: The online system prevents potential security risks that may arise from large gatherings, ensuring a safer and more seamless electoral process.
ENSURING TRANSPARENCY, INCLUSIVITY, AND RELIABILITY
To uphold its reputation as a federal institution that embodies fairness and equity, UNN has taken proactive measures to guarantee the integrity of the election process:
1. A Transparent System: The digital platform ensures secure and verifiable voting, designed to promote confidence in the process and eliminate opportunities for manipulation.
2. Inclusive Participation: All eligible alumni, regardless of location or background, have equal access to the election, ensuring that the diverse voices of the university’s alumni community are heard.
3. Due Process Compliance: The election guidelines have been clearly communicated, and all adjustments to timelines and processes have been made to maximize alumni participation and maintain the integrity of the exercise.
UNN: A SYMBOL OF NATIONAL UNITY AND EXCELLENCE
As a federal institution, the University of Nigeria Nsukka belongs to all Nigerians, transcending regional and local boundaries. The Acting Vice Chancellor’s leadership embodies this principle, ensuring that the convocation election reflects the collective voice of the alumni community. This inclusive approach underscores UNN’s legacy as a unifying force and a bastion of academic excellence in the country.
The administration’s decision to digitize the election process is not merely a technical upgrade but a bold statement of progress and inclusivity. It ensures that alumni from all regions, and even those living abroad, can contribute meaningfully to the university’s governance.
A CALL FOR COLLECTIVE SUPPORT AND PARTICIPATION
This initiative marks a significant milestone in the university’s history. All stakeholders, including the Pro-Chancellor, the Governing Council, and the Honourable Minister of Education, are encouraged to commend this step towards greater participation and transparency. It is a testament to the Acting Vice Chancellor’s visionary leadership and commitment to excellence.
We also urge the alumni community, students, and friends of UNN to embrace this transformative initiative and actively participate in the election process. This collective effort will solidify the university’s reputation as a progressive institution that values inclusivity and integrity.
CONCLUSION
The University of Nigeria Nsukka has always been a trailblazer, upholding its values of unity, excellence, and progress. The digitization of the convocation election is yet another example of the institution’s forward-thinking approach. Let us all work together to ensure the success of this historic process and uphold the legacy of this great university.
Long live the University of Nigeria Nsukka!
Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria!
Written by:
Achionye Obinna
Reg No:99/97426
Department of Surveying and Geo informatics
Concerned Alumni
