Dele Ogunyemi
Delta State Governor, Mr Sheriff Oborevwori, has charged graduates of the Delta State College of Health Sciences and Technology, Ofuoma-Ughelli, to deploy their skills in service to humanity as the institution held its 8th convocation ceremony.
The governor, who was represented at the ceremony on Saturday by the Commissioner for Higher Education, Prof. Nyerhovwo Tonukari, congratulated the graduands on the successful completion of their programmes and urged them to “contribute meaningfully to society through professionalism and compassion.”
Oborevwori also encouraged the graduates to “pursue further academic and professional development”, while commending the Governing Council and management of the college for organising a convocation ceremony after a long interval.
Speaking in an atmosphere of celebration as parents, graduates, traditional rulers and other dignitaries converged on the institution, Tonukari conveyed the goodwill of the governor and expressed optimism that Oborevwori would personally attend the college’s next convocation.
In her welcome address, the Provost of the college, Dr Odiete Eravweroso, described the ceremony as historic, noting that it was the first convocation organised under her leadership following her appointment in August 2025.
She said the event was particularly significant as it brought together graduates from 2017 to 2025, many of whom had waited for several years to formally receive their certificates.
“This convocation represents closure, restoration and the fulfilment of a long-awaited academic right,” the provost said, while expressing gratitude to the Delta State Government for its support for education and manpower development.
Odiete also thanked members of the Governing Council, regulatory bodies, traditional rulers, parents, partners and friends of the institution, noting that their presence added value to the occasion.
She congratulated recipients of the Honorary Fellowship and Distinguished Personality Awards, describing them as worthy role models whose achievements inspire students and society at large.
The provost disclosed that a total of 5,922 students graduated within the period under review, urging them to uphold professionalism, discipline and compassion in their chosen careers.
“While certificates qualify you to practise, character will ultimately determine your impact. Delay is not denial. You are graduating at a time when Nigeria needs competent, ethical and compassionate health professionals more than ever,” she said.
She assured all that her administration would continue to strengthen accreditation standards, improve infrastructure, promote staff development and reposition the college as a centre of excellence.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Governing Council, Dr Chris Oharisi, congratulated the graduates, describing the ceremony as a celebration of diligence, perseverance and purpose.
He reminded them that their profession was both a privilege and a sacred trust, noting that decisions taken by health professionals directly affect lives.
“As graduates of this institution, you are stepping into a world that urgently needs your competence, integrity and humanity,” Oharisi said.
The highlights of the ceremony included the conferment of certificates, National Diplomas and Higher National Diplomas on 5,922 graduates from 2017 to 2025, presentation of awards to the best graduating students, conferment of fellowship and personality awards, as well as group photographs.
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