In recognition of her sterling qualities, President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of Dr Chioma Irene Awuzie as the substantive Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Anambra State.

Her appointment, which takes effect immediately for a five-year term, follows the recommendation of the Polytechnic’s Governing Council, chaired by Dr. Barnabas Gemade, after a transparent and competitive selection process where she emerged as the leading candidate.

Until her appointment, Awuzie, who holds a Doctorate Degree in Physical and Materials Chemistry, was a distinguished Chief Lecturer in the Department of Science Laboratory Technology (Chemistry Option) and also the Director in charge of Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) Projects in the Polytechnic.

Under her stewardship, the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, witnessed unprecedented advancements in infrastructure and institutional transformation.

Her leadership facilitated monumental developments across the Polytechnic’s campuses in Oko, Atani and Ufuma, creating vibrant environments for academic excellence and innovation.

Awuzie is a globally recognised scholar with an extensive portfolio of research and publications.

Her fellowships with the Chemical Society of Nigeria, the Institute of Chartered Chemists of Nigeria, and the Institute of Corporate Administration underline her expertise in science and sustainability. As part of an expert team organised by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), she notably played a pivotal role in drafting the Renewable Energy Technology curriculum for Nigerian Polytechnics, currently in use.

She has held several leadership positions, including Head of the Department of Renewable Energy Research and Development, Director of Petroleum, Coal, and Renewable Energy Research Unit and Director of International Higher Education Academic Organisations. She also previously served as Coordinator, Technical, Vocational Education, and Training (TVET).

The Guardian