The Association of Nigerian University Professional Administrators (ANUPA) has taken a proactive step toward enhancing university management by organizing a capacity-building training for 450 of its members from both public and private universities across Nigeria. This initiative is part of the association’s broader commitment to improving administrative efficiency and excellence in the nation’s tertiary education sector.

The training, held over two days at the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT), was themed “University Administration: Leveraging Technology and Innovation for Excellence.” Dr. Don Aalonee, Chairman of the UNIPORT branch of ANUPA, explained that the primary objective was to equip administrative staff with current knowledge and technological skills necessary to meet the demands of modern university administration.

The training covered a wide range of topics such as emotional intelligence, mentorship, student-centred administration, and collaborative leadership. These areas were chosen in response to the shifting expectations in the education sector and the need for administrators to adapt to rapid technological and social changes. Aalonee noted that younger administrators often lack sufficient mentorship, which has created a disconnect in knowledge transfer. He stressed the importance of senior staff mentoring junior colleagues to ensure continuity and institutional memory in university systems.

Participants at the training hailed from institutions like UNIPORT, Bayero University, Kano; Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi; Osun State University; Federal University of Technology, Owerri; Bowen University; and Nigerian Maritime University, Delta, among others.

According to Prof. Owunari Georgewill, Vice Chancellor of UNIPORT, the modern university environment is rapidly evolving through digitalization, artificial intelligence, and new educational models. He emphasized that to stay relevant, university administrators must develop a mindset of continuous innovation and technological adaptability.

International experts, including Ms. Alison Whaley from Cranfield University, UK, also contributed to the sessions. She focused on the importance of mentorship, noting that effective coaches and mentors must dedicate time, listen actively, and guide mentees toward critical and developmental thinking.

In conclusion, ANUPA’s training program not only aims to bridge generational gaps in university administration but also positions Nigerian administrators to contribute effectively to the future of higher education through innovation, leadership, and professional growth.