The Rector of Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic, Dr. Christopher Okoro Kalu, has assured students that their wellbeing continues to occupy a central place in the institution’s agenda, announcing a key adjustment to the payment of the Alumni fee.
Addressing members of the management during a meeting, Dr. Kalu disclosed that students will no longer be required to pay the Alumni fee separately at both the National Diploma (ND) and Higher National Diploma (HND) stages. Instead, the fee will now be paid just once, covering the entire period up to graduation. He explained that the decision was reached after considering widespread concerns raised by students and was designed to reduce the financial burden on them.
The rector also expressed appreciation to the Abia State Government for its consistent backing of the institution, particularly in relation to the ongoing relocation to the permanent campus in Osisioma. He revealed that individuals who recently visited the new site were impressed by the level of progress recorded so far, noting that the scale of construction work reflects the government’s strong commitment to ensuring a seamless transition.
On issues relating to staff welfare, Dr. Kalu commended the bursary department for finalising procedures connected to salary promotions. He indicated that affected staff members should expect the disbursement of their upgraded salaries within the next two days.
Highlighting academic developments, the rector reaffirmed that all reforms are being implemented with students’ interests in mind. He announced the introduction of Optical Mark Recognition (OMR) examinations for ND I and HND I students taking high-population General Studies (GNS) courses. In addition, Computer-Based Tests (CBT) will now be used for ND II and HND II students in their respective departmental courses.
He clarified that only properly registered students would qualify to sit for the OMR examinations and added that the revised examination format takes immediate effect from the current academic session in all affected departments.
Dr. Kalu concluded by urging the institution’s management team to remain dedicated and united in pursuing the Polytechnic’s strategic goals, stressing that the administration is determined to sustain growth and progress in alignment with the state government’s vision.