By Njideka Eze
On Wednesday, 2nd October 2024, Godfrey Okoye University (GOUNi) and Lux Mundi University formalized a mentorship agreement with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The Vice-Chancellor of GOUNi, Rev. Fr. Prof. Christian Anieke, expressed his excitement at the opportunity to mentor the newly established Lux Mundi University, emphasizing that the partnership underscores GOUNi’s growth and recognition as a leader in Nigeria’s private university sector.
Speaking at the event, Prof. Anieke highlighted the significance of the MoU, noting that Godfrey Okoye University, established 15 years ago, is now recognized by the National Universities Commission (NUC) to mentor newer institutions. “Universities have three distinctive roles: research, teaching, and community service. GOUNi has gained valuable experience in all these areas and is eager to share them with Lux Mundi,” he said. According to him, mentorship, born out of years of experience, is precisely what the new university needs to flourish.
Prof. Anieke acknowledged Lux Mundi’s eagerness to be mentored and stressed the importance of learning from the experience of established institutions. “Every new university needs to learn from the years of experience of existing institutions, as it will aid their growth,” he remarked. However, he clarified that GOUNi would not take over Lux Mundi’s administration, as each university maintains autonomy. Instead, GOUNi will provide entrepreneurial support and guidance. Although the mentorship agreement is set for an initial period of three years, Prof. Anieke expressed hope that the partnership would extend beyond that, developing into a long-term friendship.
The mentorship will involve collaboration in various areas, including student and staff exchanges, joint research projects, and more. Prof. Anieke said he was particularly excited about the opportunity, noting that it resonates with him personally. He emphasized that GOUNi would be remembered for mentoring a university destined for greatness, and the partnership would motivate GOUNi to continue striving for excellence, knowing that other institutions are looking up to them.
In his remarks, the Proprietor of Lux Mundi University, Prof. Gabriel Okenwa, expressed gratitude to GOUNi for accepting the mentorship role. He revealed that the NUC had chosen GOUNi due to its exceptional performance since its establishment, a factor that likely influenced the decision to assign it as Lux Mundi’s mentor.
Lux Mundi University, which began operations in 2023, currently offers courses in Law, Nursing, Public Health, Accounting, Business Administration, Political Science, and Entrepreneurial Studies. Prof. Okenwa shared his vision for Lux Mundi, stating his ambition for the university to become one of the best institutions in the eastern region of Nigeria and a symbol of academic excellence in Umuahia, Abia State.
The mentorship agreement between Godfrey Okoye University and Lux Mundi University is expected to foster growth, innovation, and collaboration between the two institutions as they embark on this exciting new journey together.
Comment here