Kamsiyochukwu MbamaluProfessor Kate Omenugha has made a significant impact as Acting Vice-Chancellor of the Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), driving notable advancements in academic visibility, research, and global collaborations. Under her leadership, the university has experienced infrastructural development, enhanced research output, and strengthened international partnerships.
Omenugha’s Leadership at COOU
Omenugha was appointed as the Acting Vice-Chancellor of COOU in late November 2023 by Anambra State Governor, Charles Chukwuma Soludo. At that time, one could say that COOU was struggling with international visibility and lacking recognition on major global academic platforms. Initially, its global standing was not prominent in rankings.
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Prof. Omenugha’s first year as the acting Vice Chancellor of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU) has been marked by significant achievements that have transformed the institution. She began by establishing a clear strategic vision and a three-pronged agenda centered on Viability, Visibility, and Values. This framework has helped create a revitalized university environment where the focus is on enhancing academic integrity and fostering a student-centric governance model that protects student rights.
One of her key initiatives was the overhaul of the university’s infrastructure. This included the remodeling of the main entrance gate, now known as the “Golden Gate”, and the implementation of resilient building measures in response to climate challenges, leading to ongoing construction and upgrades across the campus, including students’ hostels. She also ensured that staff received consistent salary payments, resolving previous financial uncertainties.
Under her leadership, a strong emphasis was placed on academic integrity, with a zero-tolerance policy for fraud. This involved engaging closely with faculty and students to promote transparency and collaborative governance within the university. The establishment of the Research Management Office has also significantly enhanced research output, resulting in COOU receiving its highest number of institutional-based research grants to date.
The Road to Viability
In a bid for sustainability, her administration revitalized the university’s fish farm and introduced robust horticultural practices. This includes climate action initiatives like tree planting and the creation of a student environment police unit, all aimed at fostering an eco-friendly campus. The Acting VC has also spearheaded technological advancements, such as full computerization of administrative operations and the launch of a podcast studio for online education.
The university’s visibility has dramatically increased as it revamped its web presence and social media engagement, fostering partnerships with international institutions to promote research and academic exchange. Lastly, she addressed long-standing issues with pension fund contributions, successfully initiating payments that had been delayed since 2016, further solidifying her commitment to the welfare of university staff.
Her Visibility Approach
Under her leadership, COOU began to rise in rankings on indices like AD Scientific Index and EduRank. As of early 2024, COOU ranked globally at 6,558 out of 14,131 universities according to EduRank. It also scored in 102 research topics and ranked 261 in Africa. Additionally, COOU has shown innovation by emerging as the third-best innovative tertiary institution in Anambra State, the university’s participation in prestigious events highlights its growing reputation within Nigeria and beyond.
Prior to her appointment also COOU faced challenges in research and global collaborations. Professor Omenugha’s tenure also marked a shift towards innovation and international engagement. The university’s herbal research centre became a hub for Indigenous scientific advancement gaining recognition for its groundbreaking work initiated during her term.
Prof. Omenugha’s tenure has also been marked by significant international collaborations that have strengthened the university’s reputation beyond Nigeria. Since early in her term, COOU has expanded its partnerships with universities worldwide, enhancing its academic visibility and positioning it as a leader in regional education.
One of the most notable collaborations is the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Kentucky State University (KSU), USA. This partnership was officially signed on 23 September 2024, by KSU President Dr. Koffi C. Akakpo and COOU Vice Chancellor Kate Azuka Omenugha during a ceremony at Kentucky State University. The agreement promotes exchange programmes and collaborative research in key areas such as agriculture, nursing sciences, education, and economics.
As part of this partnership, a COOU staff member is set to pursue further studies in soil science. Additionally, COOU has established partnerships with institutions in Europe and Asia, including the University of Economics and Innovation in Poland and Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University in China.
Overall, Omenugha’s leadership has ushered in a transformative era at COOU, characterized by sustainable growth, academic excellence, and comprehensive infrastructural development, setting the stage for a vibrant and competitive university environment.
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The staff, Deans, Bursar, and students of the institution attested that these developments underscore Professor Omenugha’s vision to elevate COOU’s academic standing globally through strategic partnerships that foster collaboration and innovation.
