Rivers State University (RSU) has set its sights on becoming one of the top universities in Africa. To achieve this goal, the institution has established structures and identified tasks to improve its ranking and visibility. This was revealed during a two-day "Departmental Away Day" event, themed "A New Strategic Direction to Inspire and Reposition Rivers State University (RSU) for Excellence and Creativity." The event was organized by the university's 15th Governing Council.
Okey Wali, SAN, pro-chancellor and chairman of the 15th Governing Council, expressed confidence in the university's potential to become a leading institution in Africa. He emphasized the need for staff support and commitment to the new strategic direction. Wali stated that the development plan provides a framework for improving the university and strengthening its contribution to education and national development. He urged staff to take ownership of the plan, stressing that its success depends on their active participation.
The university's development plan is designed to be implemented through committees that have been constituted to examine its affairs and develop practical steps. Wali emphasized that these committees should focus on translating their recommendations into measurable actions across the university. He clarified that the committees' role is not just to produce reports but to help actualize the plan. The pro-chancellor expressed optimism that with the right approach, RSU can become one of the best universities in Africa.
Isaac Zeb-Obipi, vice-chancellor of RSU, reported that the university has recently moved to 10th position in a ranking after increasing the number of staff captured in its register. He explained that the ranking is based on the number of staff and institutions rather than citations alone. Zeb-Obipi emphasized that the ranking exercise is part of a broader strategy to reposition the university and make it more competitive nationally, continentally, and globally.
Zeb-Obipi called for collective ownership of the initiative, urging staff members to support efforts to improve the institution's standing. He emphasized that all that is needed is for staff to "buy in" to the new strategic direction. The vice-chancellor expressed confidence that with the support of staff, RSU can achieve its goal of becoming one of the top universities in Africa.
Joseph Ajienka, chairman of the Implementation Committee, stressed that the success of the university's development agenda depends on cooperation among the Governing Council, management, and teaching staff. He emphasized that the institution's plans should reflect the realities of the university community and the wider society. Ajienka called for sustained commitment, coordination, and practical follow-through after the retreat to ensure the university's progress.
The university's progress will be monitored through the implementation of its strategic plan, which aims to improve its ranking and visibility. With the support of its staff and a clear framework for development, RSU is poised to become one of the leading institutions in Africa. The institution's goal is to contribute to education and national development while gaining wider international recognition.
Key points
- RSU aims to become the third best university in Africa
- The university has established structures and identified tasks to improve its ranking and visibility
- Staff support and commitment are crucial to the success of the new strategic direction
