By Japhet Alakam
In its bid to contribute her quota towards a total overhauling and restructuring of the education system in Nigeria, University of Berkley, Michigan, USA in Nigeria recently held her first international graduation ceremony for the conferment of Honorary Doctorate Degrees of University of Berkley, Michigan, USA .

The University of Berkley according to the president Andrew Harper, is one of the great institutions of higher learning that exist to promote accomplishments toward the betterment of self and society. The education programme , he stated is to improve the performance of higher education in Nigeria in the 21st century so that the beneficiaries will be able to cope or compete effectively in the global economy, where growth will be based more heavily on the technical and scientific knowledge.

Speaking at the event, Dr Akin Ogunsakin, the Director of African Studies pointed out that one of the essential ways through which the institution achieve its target is to recognize the accomplishments of deserving individuals in order that they may go on in their own ways to make contributions to their communities and society. Stating that it was on that basis that these great African distinguished icons were selected for the award.

Among them were HRH, Chief Egbere Emere Appolus Chu, the paramount ruler of Okori community of Eleme Kingdom, Rivers State who received Doctor of Humanities, D, Hum-Honoris Causa, Justice Shehu Ibrahim Ahmad, Doctor of Laws- L.L.D- Hororis Causa, Chief Bob Nabena, Doctor of Philosophy, Chief(Mrs) Christy Essien Igbokwe, Doctor of Music and others.

The occasion which was well attended by students, friends and colleagues of the awardees was chaired by the culture enthusiant, Ambassador Segun Olusola. Earlier in his opening address, Olusola commended the organisers for bringing the programme to Nigeria. Pointing out that because of the problems associated in Nigeria’s education system the coming of the institution to Nigeria is a blessing to all and enjoined Nigeria’s education managers to draw lessons from the institution and input it in our system.

Continuing, he stated that the institution is an advantage to many Nigerians who are eager to get the quality education which the institution provides. “I have no doubt that this institution will be of great benefit to Nigerians. What we are doing today is part of it and pray that this will reach the numerous Nigerians in need of quality education.” he added.

The high point of the occasion was the announcement of the appointment of HRH, Chief Egbere Emere Appolus Chu as the Alumni’s President of the University in Africa.

In his acceptance speech, the elated paramount ruler who has distinguished himself in many leadership positions charged Nigerians to put in their best in what ever position they find themselves and promised to use the position for the betterment of all Nigerians irrespective of tribe or sex.