By Ikechukwu Odu

The Vice Chancellor of Enugu State University of Science and Technology, ESUT, *Professor Aloysius-Michaels Okolie*, on Monday commissioned a 5KVA solar-powered facility with Starlink internet access at the Department of Computer Engineering.

Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, the VC described the project as a bold step towards sustainable power supply and improved digital learning in the University.

He specifically commended the outgoing Head of Department, Dr Chioma Oleka for her vision and leadership in executing the project and used the occasion to call on other HoDs,  Deans and  others to emulate and add values  to the offices they occupy.

“This feat by the Department of Computer Engineering is highly commendable. Dr. Oleka has shown what is possible with dedication, innovation, and commitment to service,” Prof. Okolie said.

To ensure that “a Professor is seen as a professing professor,” the Vice Chancellor further disclosed that Management may need  to add a clause in the University’s new Condition of Service  which ensures that  promotion to the rank of Professor would be based on “qualifying variables” and not merely on number of years spent.

Prof. Okolie also announced that Management would assist the department by upgrading the solar facility from 5KVA to 10KVA to accommodate larger electrical installations. “We will also come up with further assistance after due consultations,” he assured.

In his welcome address, the Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, Prof Thompson Chime , recalled the huge milestones recorded by the current ESUT Management and thanked the VC for repositioning the University for greater visibility.

He noted that the Faculty of Engineering, being the pioneer faculty, has continued to be at the forefront of driving innovation and technology, and commended the HOD for adding another feather to its cap through the latest project.

In an emotional address, the outgoing HOD, *Dr. Chioma Oleka*, said the project was conceived and delivered through the strong support and unity of all members of the department and  huge financial assistance from the Departmental Alumni, especially the 2001 set.

She commended the incoming HOD, Dr Godwin  Ozor and past Heads of Department including *Dr Uju Nduanya, Dr. Lois Nwobodo, Prof. Harmony Nwobodo-Nzeribe,  and Dr Francis. Okoye*, whom she acknowledged as her guide into the profession.

Dr. Oleka pledged to continue to support the new HOD and the department to ensure continuity. She also appealed to the University Management to assist the department with more desktop computers to complement the seven newly  installed in the departmental library.

With the new facility commissioned, the Department of Computer Engineering can now boast of internet accessibility and solar-driven electricity across the entire department.

Present at the commissioning ceremony were the Registrar, University Librarian, Bursar, Some members of the University Governing Council, viz Prof Okey Oji, Prof Ifeoma Okwor and Moses Ogbodo,
Also present were some Deans and Directors, Professors and other faculty members.