OPINION
Annual Convocation: Taraba Gov’s Directive, A Step in the Right Direction
By Henry Agbu
Governor Agbu Kefas’ Directive that Annual Convocation Ceremonies be held in State Own Tertiary Institutions; A bold and Transformative Step in the Right Direction.
The Governor of Taraba State, Dr Agbu Kefas, in his commitment and unwavering dedication to excellence in the education sector, has directed that henceforth, every higher institution in the state must hold annual convocation as expected.
Gov Agbu Kefas
The Governor disclosed this in his remarks at the recently held combined Convocation ceremony of the College of Education, Zing in Taraba State.
Governor Agbu Kefas’ directive for the Yearly Convocations in Taraba State Tertiary Institution is a bold and transformative move and a welcome development. This directive would not have come at a better time than now, considering the fact that some institutions have never held convocations, even as some are just holding for the first time since their establishment.
This directive can also be viewed as not only a show of the Governor’s commitment to revitalize the educational sector but also ensuring that global standards are maintained.
The significance of a Convocation ceremony cannot be overemphasised. It serves as a platform to celebrate the hard work of students. By making convocations an annual event, the Governor is ensuring that the right thing is done. The era when students get certificates years after graduation will become a thing of the past as the institutions will ensure that their graduates receive their certificates during such convocation ceremonies.
Another interesting thing about it is that, it enhances the reputation of the institution involved and portrays it as a perfect citadel of knowledge.
Regular convocations project a sense of structure, growth, and prestige for the institutions involved.
Convocation ceremonies bring together graduates, their families, and dignitaries, fostering a sense of community. It can also stimulate local economies, from hospitality to small businesses.
The directive is also a call to duty on the part of the tertiary institutions to stay consistent in their academic calendar. It demands efficiency, ensuring that students graduate on time and that institutions address any administrative lapses promptly.
The Governor assured that despite his tight schedule, he will make it a point of duty to attend all the convocation ceremonies. He enjoined the institutions involved to plan the occasions in such a way that he would be in attendance. And the presence of the Governor in such a gathering is a significant milestone. It also presents a better opportunity to listen and address the problems and challenges of the institution involved.
The Governors’ vision to institutionalize annual convocations is a step in the right direction. It aligns with global best practices and demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to governance.
As citizens, this laudable initiative should be supported. Tertiary institutions should also strive to rise to the challenge. The Governor has already provided the platform they need to explore it to the fullest. They should collaborate with relevant authorities to ensure that this initiative is actualized.
