By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja
Salem University, Lokoja, is set to graduate 168 students, including four first-class degree holders, at its 7th Convocation Ceremony scheduled for Friday, October 21. The Vice Chancellor, Professor Johnson Alewo Akubo, announced this on Tuesday during a pre-convocation press briefing outlining activities for the event.
Professor Akubo urged the graduating students to uphold the values of their alma mater as they enter the labour market. He described them as “Change Agents” who have demonstrated diligence, creativity, and moral uprightness across diverse fields including public administration, media, business, technology, and education.
The Vice Chancellor noted that employers consistently commend Salem University graduates for their integrity, competence, emotional balance, leadership qualities, and strong moral character.
“They are not just academically sound but spiritually and emotionally balanced—reflecting the holistic education philosophy of this great institution,” he said.
Akubo also acknowledged the visionary leadership of Archbishop Dr. Sam Amaga, the founding Chancellor of Salem University, whose dedication has helped position the institution as a centre for academic and moral excellence.
He expressed appreciation to Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, for his support, and extended gratitude to partner institutions, stakeholders, and the media for their collaboration.
“Salem University was birthed through divine inspiration to raise global leaders who are spiritually alive, intellectually alert, and socially responsible,” he stated.
Highlighting recent achievements, the Vice Chancellor said the university has maintained a stable academic calendar, upheld zero tolerance for examination malpractice, and recently secured approval to launch a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) programme—establishing Salem as a rising medical hub in North-Central Nigeria.
The university has also introduced postgraduate programmes and is expanding into engineering, agriculture, and environmental sciences.
Akubo emphasized Salem University’s impact on its host communities—Elete and Jimgbe—through job creation, entrepreneurship support, and various community development initiatives.
“Our graduates are Change Agents, distinguished by integrity, competence, and moral uprightness,” he noted, while thanking employers for their positive reports on alumni performance.
Looking ahead, Professor Akubo outlined a strategic vision to transform Salem University into a world-class institution driven by research, innovation, and international collaborations. He appealed to the Kogi State Government for increased investment, citing the institution’s economic and social contributions.
As Salem University prepares for its 7th Convocation Ceremony, the Vice Chancellor expressed gratitude to the media for amplifying the institution’s progress and called for continued support.
