Benue State University, Makurdi, BSU, is set to celebrate its 22nd, 23rd, and 24th combined convocation ceremonies, scheduled for Thursday, December 5, 2024, to Sunday, December 8, 2024.
According to information made available to newsmen by the Convocation Planning Committee, “the grand event will honour graduates from the 2019/2020, 2020/2021, and 2022/2023 academic sessions, marking a significant milestone in the university’s history”.
The convocation, the committee added “is expected to feature a series of activities, including health initiatives, academic celebrations, and cultural events. First degrees, postgraduate diplomas, higher degrees, and honourary doctorate degrees will be awarded to deserving recipients.
“The celebrations will begin with the Vice-Chancellor’s opening of a free health outreach for students and staff at the BSU Clinic. This initiative underscores the institution’s commitment to the well-being of its community”.
Information released by the University indicates that a pre-convocation press briefing would be held to provide an overview of the event. The day will culminate in a novelty football match between male and female management staff at the Eastern Wing Football Pitch.
Besides, “Day two promises to be a vibrant mix of sporting and intellectual activities. A football match between female students from the two wings will kick off at the Eastern Wing Football Pitch. Following this, the university will commission the CEFTER Food Technology and Innovation Complex, CEFTIC, and Food Lab in Makurdi”.
Also, a renowned academic and cultural historian Professor Toyin Falola, Chair of Jacob and Frances Sanger Mossiker in the Humanities at the University of Texas at Austin, USA, will deliver a convocation lecture entitled “Power, Politics, and Policies” at Auditorium 1, College of Health Sciences. The lecture will delve into themes of governance, development, and institutional transformation.
The day will also feature a convocation play at the Arts Theatre Complex, highlighting the university’s rich cultural heritage.
The highlight of the convocation ceremonies will be done the next day at the New Convocation Square. The program will include: Speeches from the Chancellor, Pro-Chancellor, and Vice-Chancellor. Presentation of goodwill messages by visiting Vice-Chancellors. The Vice-Chancellor’s annual report to the Visitor. Conferment of first degrees, postgraduate diplomas, higher degrees, honorary doctorate degrees, and awards to outstanding graduates.
According to the convocation planning committee, Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Alia, “will address the audience. The event will serve as a platform to recognize academic excellence and the achievements of the graduating cohorts.
“The convocation will conclude with a special thanksgiving mass at the Goodnews Chapel, BSU. The service will offer a moment of reflection and gratitude, bringing the celebrations to a solemn end.
As part of the ceremony, select eminent Nigerians will be conferred with honorary doctorate degrees for their outstanding contributions to society. This recognition aligns with BSU’s tradition of celebrating individuals who have significantly impacted national development.
“The convocation ceremonies symbolize BSU’s commitment to academic excellence and community development. The diverse lineup of activities reflects the university’s dedication to fostering innovation, intellectual engagement, and cultural enrichment.
The combined convocation will not only celebrate the achievements of graduates but also reaffirm BSU’s role as a leading institution of higher learning in Nigeria, committed to producing future leaders equipped with the skills and knowledge to drive national and global progress”.