Convocation: UNN graduates 11,143 students

… Iworiso-Markson, 430 others get doctorate degrees

Notable Nigerians, including Enugu State Governor, Mr. Peter Mbah, were among dignitaries at the weekend that attended the 53rd convocation ceremony of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

Chairman of the Governing Council of the institution, General Ike Nwachukwu (rtd), was also in attendance as 11,143 students graduated with various degrees and diplomas.

Out of the number 195 graduated with first class honours, 4,165 graduated with second class honours (upper division), 5,297 got second class honours (lower division), 659 with Third Class; 22 Pass; 889 unclassified as well as 16 for Diploma.

Among the graduates were 1,356 for postgraduate degrees and diplomas, of which 431 got doctorate degrees, 848 masters degrees, and 77 bagged diplomas.

A former Commissioner for Information and Orientation in Bayelsa State, Daniel Iworiso-Markson, was among those who bagged a doctorate degree.

Iworiso-Markson, in an interview, said it was a memorable moment for him, having missed the opportunity to obtain the same degree over twenty years ago.

He said: “I had the opportunity of starting my academic journey as a PhD student in 2003 immediately after my Masters degree. The late Professor Ike Nwosu, an icon, former President of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations(NIPR), former Head of Department of Marketing University of Nigeria, Nsukka and later Dean of the Faculty of Business Administration, was one person who ignited my interest to pursue a PhD in Public Relations immediately after the completion of my Masters degree in Public Relations. He was my supervisor, and he told me he would like to see me enroll for a PhD program in Public Relations in UNN as one of the pioneer students at the time.

“I remembered telling Prof. Nwosu then that PhD can wait as I was more concerned and focused on building my career and improving my economic status.

Fast forward to 2024, it has been 21 years now since I put off the opportunity to pursue a PhD program and sadly, the man who tried to talk me into it, is no more. But here I am today, filled with a deep sense of accomplishment to be part of the 53rd convocation ceremony of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, for the award of higher degrees.

“The journey to get here has been so long and very difficult. There is no need to bore you with the details of the challenges or barriers I have had to deal with to overcome. What is most important is that I have taken full advantage of the scholastic opportunities made available to me as a student. Through rigorous coursework, research endeavors, and experiential learning opportunities, I honed my critical thinking skills, cultivated my strengths, and prepared myself for the ever-evolving demands of the modern world.

“Overall, it has been a transformative voyage filled with growth and invaluable lessons. Without that, it has shaped my intellect, character, and drive for excellence.”

He expressed his gratitude for all those who made it possible for him to achieve the latest academic feat, noting that such invaluable support was inspiring for him.

“I am filled with gratitude for the countless individuals who have supported and inspired me along the way. From my devoted lecturers and supervisor to my loving family and friends, each has played a pivotal role in shaping my academic endeavors and nurturing my intellectual curiosity.

“As I embark on the next phase of my journey, I carry with me the lessons learned, the memories cherished, and the dreams yet to be realized, eager to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead,” he said.