By Onyeananam Chidinma

In a pivotal gathering during the 2023 Convocation of the Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO), Prof. Laz Uzoechi, the National President of the FUTO Alumni Association, convened an interactive session with alumni stakeholders. The aim was to update members on recent progress, chart future directions for the association, and discuss the alumni-University relationship.

A key highlight of the meeting was the successful pilot phase of the transcript resolution initiative, notably marked by Dr. I Chibuike Lawrence Achigbu’s generous donation of an industrial transcript processing scanner to FUTO.

In a press release jointly signed by Prof. Laz Uzoechi, Rtn Stanley Madu (Chairman LOC, Alumni Convocation Activity), and Chief Ikukundu Iyke Anyanwu (Team Leader, Publicity and Media LOC, Alumni Convocation Activity Program), the association lauded the 34th and 35th combined convocation of the University. The series of events, including the ecumenical service, tree planting, convocation lecture, Chancellor's cocktail cum alumni night, and media engagements, have set a new benchmark for academic convocations nationwide.

The members also expressed their appreciation for the significant achievements and the collective commitment of the alumni, particularly commending the current NEC for its effective role. With a 70% appraisal score, the NEC’s efforts in addressing the transcript issue and facilitating the release of alumni funds were highlighted. The alumni were encouraged to adopt proactive and innovative strategies to ensure synergy with University programs, maximizing impact and avoiding duplication of efforts.

Furthermore, the alumni reaffirmed their unwavering support for the University, aiming to elevate FUTO to global standards. They expressed profound gratitude to the University management and stakeholders for their invaluable contributions to this year's successful convocation ceremony.

The FUTO Alumni Association also took the opportunity to congratulate Engr. Chief Dr. Chibuike L. Achigbu on his well-deserved recognition and conferment of the Honorary Doctorate Degree, including a Doctor of Technology, Honoris Causa. His contribution of the industrial transcript scanner was recognized as a significant step towards enhancing administrative processes at FUTO.