By Our Correspondent
Federal Polytechnic Oko, Anambra State, has secured an affiliation agreement with Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, enabling the institution to commence Bachelor’s Degree programmes in Mass Communication and ten other disciplines.
The landmark development followed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two institutions at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University campus in Awka.
The agreement authorises the polytechnic to award degree qualifications through its affiliation with the university.
Under the arrangement, Federal Polytechnic Oko will run degree programmes in Mass Communication, Business Administration, Public Administration, Accountancy, Banking and Finance, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Chemistry, Biochemistry and Microbiology.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, the Vice-Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Prof. Ugochukwu Bond Anyaehie, described the partnership as a significant step towards strengthening academic collaboration and expanding access to quality higher education.
He expressed optimism that the affiliation would foster academic excellence, research advancement and capacity building between the two institutions, while opening new opportunities for students seeking university degrees.
The Rector of Federal Polytechnic Oko, Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie, described the approval as a landmark achievement for the institution, noting that it would broaden academic opportunities for students and enhance the polytechnic’s contribution to human capital development.
According to her, the affiliation marks the beginning of a new phase in the institution’s growth and will provide students with access to degree programmes in high-demand fields, including Mass Communication.
The agreement is expected to further strengthen Federal Polytechnic Oko’s academic profile and create additional pathways for students seeking university qualifications without leaving the institution.
Observers say the inclusion of Mass Communication among the approved programmes is likely to boost training opportunities for aspiring journalists, broadcasters, public relations practitioners and other media professionals in the South-East region.
