By Ikenna Nwokedi 

The Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering (MME), Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) Awka, on Wednesday, 28th November 2024 celebrated and send forth one of their outstanding scholars, Engr. Prof. Eugene Ekedumogu Nnuka on the occasion of his retirement and birthday.

The colourful event which took place at the Auditorium of the Chisco Institute for Transportation Studies (CHITS), UNIZIK, saw members of staff of the Department of MME and Faculty of Engineering as well as the students of the Department troupe out en masse for the event.

In his opening remarks, the Head, Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, Engr. Dr. Kingsley Chidi Nnakwo stated that the Department is profoundly honoured to host the celebration of a man whose contributions to the departmental growth and success were immeasurable.

Dr. Nnakwo said: "Prof. Nnuka has been a father figure, a guide and inspiration to all of us. His tireless dedication, remarkable doggedness and sincere impact have shaped the department into what it is today. He personally supervised the academic journeys of nearly all our lecturers and some technologists in this department, either at the Masters' or PhD levels.

"These achievements are a testament to his unwavering commitment to the advancement of knowledge and the nurturing of excellence," Nnakwo stated.

The young scholar and Head of Department of MME informed that Prof. Nnuka's supervision led to the graduation of over 40 Master's students and more than 20 PhD candidates. He affirmed that the staff of the department will always turn to him for guidance and inspiration while praying for God's continued blessings upon the life of Prof. Nnuka and his family.

On his part, the Provost, College of Postgraduate Studies (CPGS), Engr. Prof. Philomena Igbokwe in her remarks stated that Prof. Nnuka who joined the University in 2005 brought excellence, forthrightness and steadfastness demonstrated by his prowess with the number of Postgraduate students he supervised and graduated successfully. Prof. Igbokwe eulogized the Department for honouring Prof. Nnuka while also calling on staff members to fit into his shoes with their dedication and positive actions in service.

Also speaking, the immediate past Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, Engr. Prof. Joseph Nwabanne described Prof. Nnuka as a great teacher, a mentor and jovial figure who contributed immensely to human development through his dedication to Education. The scholar thanked the Department for the celebration and sent forth party in honour of Prof. Nnuka.

Others who showered encomiums and felicitations on Prof. Nnuka were Engr. Dr. Paul Okolie, Internal Member of the 10th Governing Council representing Congregation; Engr. Dr. Okechukwu Ezeanyim, Head, Department of Industrial and Production Engineering and Engr. Dr. Ngozi Okelekwe, Zonal Director, Nigeria Board for Technical Education, South East.

Responding, the celebrant, Prof. Nnuka thanked the Department for the honour done to him on the occasion of his bowing out from active service and birthday. Prof. Nnuka who went down memory lane on the history of the Department of MME pointed out the contributions of the late, Prof. S.I. Okeke.

Prof. Nnuka adduced that MME Department is one of the strongest in the Faculty in terms of teaching staff strength and academic record. He urged both teaching and non-teaching staff to work together in unity and understanding towards the growth of the Department.

The sent forth event also featured cutting of cake, presentation of gifts to the celebrant, musical rendition by St. Cecilia Angelic Voices Choir of St. Joseph Chaplaincy, UNIZIK and session of group photo sessions with the celebrant.