Recently, the Vice-Chancellor, Enugu State University of Science and Technology, ESUT, Professor Aloysius-Michaels Okolie stated that funding of the universities in the country should not be left for the governments alone. He stated this while assessing the impact of the current challenging economy in the country on the university.

Prof Okalie opined that universities should diversify their revenue bases in order to meet up with their day-to-day financial obligations particularly salary payments and infrastructural development.

 In ESUT, the Ventures Committee is one sector in charge of internal revenue generation for the university, a statutory responsibility this committee has overseen many years.

The Ventures Committee, superintended by Chief Comrade Ogbodo Charles, has been one of the engine rooms in supplying ESUT its financial livewire for sustenance.

In this exclusive interview with Comrade Ogbodo, he shares with us, his achievements and challenges. He explained modalities on how to get a shop at the University Park, issue of indiscriminate hawkers in the university and expressed assurance that the management is working on rehabilitating the Engr. Arthur Eze road leading to the University Park.

Activities of ESUT venture

My journey with ESUT Ventures began in January 2021 when I was appointed as secretary by the then acting Vic-Chancellor, Professor Charles Eze.

On September 20th, 2022, I was appointed as chairman of ventures by current Vice-Chancellor, Professor Aloysius-Michaels Okolie to superintend over the activities of ESUT Ventures.

We have a committee which organizes the venture to recover debt from our tenants inside the ESUT Park and to advise the university on other ways that will bring ESUT Ventures to status of a directorate. We also, very importantly, generate revenue for the university

Ventures in the university

When you hear ventures, the name speaks for itself, venture is just business. We have various categories of ventures in ESUT – we have traders, those that are on cyber businesses, provision; we have the tricycles, (keke riders), motorcycle riders (okada) we have the shuttle (buses) and we have the taxi.

Shuttles in ESUT

Yes, we have different segments of shuttles plying our route everyday either bringing in or taking staff and students out of the university. We have buses, tricycles, motorcycles and taxis.

Currently we have 60 buses, 80 motorcyclist (okada), 100 tricycle riders and 40 taxies. They are all registered and numbered. 

Getting a shop at the Park

 If you need a shop at the park, you will fill a form, the committee will give you space allocation, you develop it or bring put a container. Thereafter, you pay a rent of ₦1,000 per month to ESUT Ventures account. Our job is demanding, is energy sapping job because a lot of things are involved in cause of executing and carrying out the job because you get insult, intimidation from people who should do better. Like I said earlier, the rent is ₦1, 000, it is not something to write home about, unfortunately, to collect the rent is a big challenge. But we are equal to the task, we work assiduously to generate revenue for the university which is the cardinal objective.   

Indiscriminate hawkers in the university

We are not unaware of the hawkers in the university. If you look round within the school premises, there are indiscriminate hawkers, if you go to the faculty, they are there. When you go to the park, where all of them are asked to go and settle down, you will not see them

That is what we are battling now, because we know in the past those at the faculties were asked move to the park but human beings being what they are, they resisted. Even when my team comes down to the faculties and pursue them, you will see them back the next minute. You will meet somebody selling nuts, or meat pie going round and when you tell that person to go back and settle at the park where they should be, the person will say ‘oga I will not’ Even when you succeed in pushing that person down inside the park that particular day, the next morning you will see him or her there again. That is the challenges we are having but we are hopeful they will settle down at the park soon.

Debt recovery

Debt recovering is very difficult but we combine carrot and stick approach. What we do first is to give them carrot approach because when you want to recover debt, you have to dialogue, plead. At a time, we deploy the stick because when the carrot approach is insufficient, you blend it with another approach which is stick and it is going well.

Reconstruction of road

Yes, there is plan because the venture committee is not sleeping. The management is aware of the bad road leading to the park. I have had meetings with the stakeholders at the park regarding the state of the road, I led a delegation to the vice-chancellor and he gave us a listening ear.

Recently he gave us a bus to help us be responsive to our duties.

The vice-chancellor have the road in mind and he has even told us that he has reached out to attract help. Do not forget that the road has been named after a philanthropist, Chief Arthur Eze. That tells you that our VC is making every effort, but we have to be patient because in no distance time, that road will be fixed.

Challenges

Obviously, it has not been easy but we are equal to the task. We receive insults from those that are at the park because of trying to recover debts, even in the course of trying to let them pay the ₦1,000 naira a month they will insult you and call you names and they will use all manner of tactics to evade the payment. But at the end of the day, they will pay it or we get them evicted from the park.

Security at the park

The university security patrols the park but recently, there was incident and complaints came to me. I asked the traders and transport unions to form groups and make provision for security.  They were advised to have such to complement ESUT’s security. They put that into action and engaged security men to man the area. Security is everybody’s business and I am happy they have understood the need.

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My journey from being an ordinary regular student to the top most rank of the students leadership in the Enugu State University of Science and Technology, ESUT; SUG President, is largely informed by my total believe in and the nurture gotten from the above assertions, and more importantly the God factor, consistency and hard-work towards protecting the interest of the students and leaving a good legacy. 

As posited by John Maxwell, “position is the starting place for every level of leadership. It is the bottom floor and the foundation upon which leadership must be built. Real influence must be developed upon that foundation”. Taking up leadership position as I newly entered the University was very far from my mind, even though I had always have passion for leadership. Also, I had always believed that I would occupy any of the topmost leadership positions in ESUT before I would graduate from the school.

Little did I know that I would be elected the Class Representative of my class; 100 level Law 2019/2020 session. From there, I was equally elected the General Class Rep of all the year one Class Reps. It did not stop there, I was also elected the school hostel P.R.O. In the same100 level, the then Dean, Faculty of law; Prof Osy-Nnamani Ogbu equally appointed me a member of the Caretaker Committee leadership of the Faculty of Law. 

Moreso, in my 200 level, I was appointed the Campus Director of Law Students Association of Nigeria, ESUT chapter, Senior Special Adviser to the SUG President on Students Matters. My 300 level was not left without a new position as I contested and won the SUG P.R.O after I stepped down for my senior in the faculty of law for the post of SUG President. 

In my 400 level, I stepped down from Class Rep and contested for the post of SUG President, and for the first time in the history of ESUT a hosteller won the top seat of the Students Union Government of the school. It was incredible as the election was keenly contested by 4 popular candidates.

Here again, John Maxwell’s assertion that your values are the soul of your leadership, and they drive your behaviour. My driving force and what distinguishes me in all the positions held are my commitment in protecting the interest of the students, the quest for the advancement of my leadership skill and the urge to leave a good legacy. These were evident in my commitment to help ending the plights of the students living in the school hostel, especially as it regards water, light and safety starting from my 100 level days.

As the SUG President, I vehemently resisted some individuals from National Association of Nigeria Students (NANS) Zone F who wanted to shutdown ESUT for their selfish interest. I refused to yield to their antics, and gave no room for them to scuttle the academic calendar of the University. Another incident was when 34 ESUT students were unjustly arrested at the School Cafeteria by the men of Nigerian Police Force of the Anti-cult unit. I issued out a very powerful Press Release that drew the attention of the Government and the students were released immediately and unconditionally. 

Moreover, my government carried out programs and events wherein scholarships and bursaries were given to our students by the invited personalities.

As Dr SKC Ogbonnia rightly opined, “the ability to influence an unwilling follower to an enthusiastic follower is the hallmark of effective leadership”. Being one of my top priorities, I worked towards changing the age-long perception of the students living in the school hostel, who were seen as inferiors by their counterparts who live off campus. As the SUG P.R.O then in my 300 level, I appointed some hostellers including Com Nonyia Chisom (Valour), into SUG senate to represent the hostellers at the parliament. Having made up my mind that I will contest for SUG Presidency, and owing to the fact that it is not a one-man task, I brought the leadership of the hostels together and made them see my agenda as the hostellers’ agenda. Just like Dr SKC Ogbonnia posited; “every human being has abundance of talents and capabilities but constantly requires proper combination of other relevant elements to excel”. With this, we kicked off the awakening campaign within the hostels.

The campaign was a blast as it lead to my emergence as the SUG President, and another hosteller; Nonyia Chisomlfc Valour emerged the SUG SSG.

In my government, I made the hostellers occupy strategic positions not leaving the off-campus students behind. Everybody was given sense of belonging. Thereafter, I equally ensured that another hosteller succeeded me as the SUG President, and other positions won by the hostellers include SUG VP, SUG SSG, SUG FIN. SEC and SUG Treasurer.

I could not have achieved all these without God. I always seek the face of God in everything. As the SUG PRO then and the highest ranking students’ leader in the hostels, I championed a hostel thanksgiving in the churches in the campus. Even as the SUG President, I worked closely with the leadership of the Joint Christians Campus Body (JCCB), and we organized series of programs and prayers for the students and the University at large.

As I was in the class few days after I have handed over to the new SUG President, one of my lecturers in the Faculty of Law; Rev Sis Dr Onuegbulam, approached and asked me how I feel after I have handed over. I responded by saying that I felt fulfilled. Just like John C Maxwell would say, “Leaders are always taking people somewhere… If there is no journey, there is no leadership”.

Recounting my leadership journey from my 100 level days, serving in different capacities till my 500 level, being the only SUG President over the years whose tenure was not scuttled via dissolution and devoid of any case of misconduct or misappropriation of students fund. Having fought and protected the interest of the students, helped to bring out the best from among the students, safeguarded and helped advanced the corporate image of the University in line with the agenda of our digital Vice-Chancellor; Prof Aloysius-Michaels Okolie, there comes my fulfilment.

I could not have written down my numerous achievements here for want of space. However, having sagaciously contained the interest of the students and that of the University without any clash, and at the end being celebrated by both, is the most fulfilling aspect of my leadership.

Com Donatus Okolieuwa (Dona4all), SUG President, ESUT 2022/2023, Faculty of Law, 500 Level.

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Today Enugu State University of Science and Technology’s (ESUT) esteemed content creator for ESUT TV and multimedia expert, Ernest Izuchukwu Nweke, is poised to embark on a new chapter of his life as he prepares to exchange vows with his heartrob, Chigozie Joy Aneke

The significant milestone is scheduled to take place today, 20th of April, 2024, at the prestigious Cathedral Church of St. Cyprian, Abakpa Nike, Enugu State, commencing at 10am. This auspicious solemnization of two hearts deeply in love with each other, marks the beginning of a journey filled with joy and companionship.

Supported by the unwavering love and prayers of their families and cherished ones, Mr. Nweke and his Joy are set to embark on this momentous journey together. The ceremony promises to be a celebration of love, unity, and shared dreams as they pledge their commitment to each other in the presence of their loved ones.

Like two soul meant for each other by birth, Ernest and Joy begin their new home today in earnest and God’s last joy and blessings.

As they take this monumental step forward, warm wishes and heartfelt blessings are pouring in from all corners, extending hopes for a lifetime of happiness and togetherness. The couple’s union serves as an inspiration to all, reminding us of the beauty and strength found in the bonds of love and partnership.

Congratulations and well-wishes abound for Mr. Ernest Nweke and his bride as they embark on this beautiful journey together, marking the beginning of a new phase filled with endless love and cherished memories.

Wedding And Traditional Marriage.

Today’s epoch-making union is a one-fold two events meant to unite two hitherto “strange” families and create a new one for continuation of human creation.

Both the Wedding and Traditional Marriage will hold today but first is the Wedding at Cathedral Church of St Cyprian by 10am to be followed immediately by Traditional Marriage (TM) at Mr Cyprian Aneke’s compound, opposite St Mary’s Primary School, Nkwubor Nike, Emene Enugu.

We understand that “Rice and Stew including Semi, will be very plenty”

Ernest Izuchukwu Nweke works at the Vice-Chancellor’s Office as a content creator and multi-media expert. He is a talented young man with immense potentials.

The post ESUT VC’s Content Creator Ernest Nweke Abandons Bachelorhood, Finds Joy In Joy appeared first on ESUT Monitor.

Every community has its root, the very fabric of its history and formation. With increasing diversity in human endeavours, our years of community living has become an endangered paradigm where “I” is emphasised over “We”. However, the celebration of Christmas, a Christian holiday that marks the birth of Jesus Christ, signposts the relevance communal life particularly in the hinterland.

Christmas, a season characterised by gift-gifting, carolling, and decorating of trees with lights and evergreens, reinforces our commonality. Some families also wear matching outfit’s and take photos together on Christmas Eve. On Christmas, families often spend hours cooking elaborate meals, setting up decorations, and preparing for the holiday.

The holiday brings a sense of togetherness and love, as families spend time together and reflect on the year’s blessing. Also going for church service on Christmas Day is always exciting and brings a sense of consciousness of Jesus’ birth.

Despite all the preparations, the true meaning of Christmas is the joy and peace that it brings to families around the world. It is a time to reflect on the love and blessings in our lives.

The joie de vivre that accompanies Christmas is exhilarating. The children play around with uncontrolled attention, older brothers fetch water, sisters gather firewood and mothers laid out pots for food preparations.  To bring the life out of the whole event is to eat together, chatting and partaking of the cool weather, neighbours and friends moving from different locations, seeking for every meal to be tasted. It is a day when nobody goes hungry, yet, no food is left untasted.

This period does not only speak present but also takes us back to our root, where our fathers also celebrate the season with village festivals like; the masquerade performance, youth beauty parade, wrestling and lots more.  The village king confers chieftaincy honours on deserving sons of the land and celebrates with his people. Christmas don’t only display its qualities but creates opportunity for everyman to be himself

Love is shared from every angle of life, leaving no space for fear, pain or grief. The season produces new relationship in the life of the singles, giving a little touch and reminder of Valentine for them. Christmas doesn’t only create room for celebration but also for bonding. This is especially true for singles, who have the opportunity to find their other half.  It gives a little touch of Valentine’s Day – love is offered and taken.  

It is also a season to reflect on the true gift of Jesus Christ who was sent to mankind. Christians are privileged people, for they have great advantages to this season. Christmas melodies and rhythms before and after the season, has endless play.

Children across the world are often surprised by the gifts and visits from their loved ones during the holiday season. The holiday season is not about wealth or status, but about celebrating with loved ones and sharing kindness and compassion. Even those who are less fortunate, such as orphans and disabled, are able to experience the joy and wonder of the holiday season. Everyone, from the beautiful to the less conventionally attractive, can find something to celebrate during this time of the year.

Christmas is a time of the year that reminds us of the importance of love, community, joy and gratitude. It is a season for reflection on the past and hope for the future. As we celebrate the birth of Jesus, we are reminded of the true gifts of love, faith, and family.   

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In the heart of Awhum (sometimes spelled “Ohum”), a town steeped in history, in Udi Local Government Area, Enugu State; the Ukwaakpu tree stands tall, an ancient sentinel of tradition and spirituality. Despite the winds of change and the spread of Christianity, this majestic tree remains an unyielding symbol, weaving together the past and present in a tapestry of cultural richness.

The Awhum Waterfall and Cave bears glory to the ancestral heritage of the people.

Known as the fourth son of Ojebe ogene, Awhum carries the weight of its ancestry in its very roots. Abor, umurumgbe, ukana, okpatu, Eve—these are not just names; they are chapters in the town’s narrative, etched into the bark of the towering Ukwaakpu tree. The community’s lifeblood, rooted in farming and hunting, pulses through the veins of tradition that bind them to this sacred site.

Beyond the physical realm, the Ukwaakpu tree is whispered to be a haven for spirits. Villagers share tales of dire situations where, in dreams, the spirit within the tree guides them home. A mystical force, resilient against storms, erosion, and fire, the tree becomes a spiritual compass in the labyrinth of existence.

Nestled near the Anglican Church, a three-way road converges, leading to Amofia Ibite, Amani, and the sacred market square known as Obodoeke. This junction becomes a ceremonial crossroads where sacrifices are made during significant occasions, a place where spirits are believed to converge. It echoes the town’s commitment to preserving rituals in the face of changing times.

Interviews unveil stories of another Ukwaakpu tree that met a tragic fate when it was felled. The consequences were dire, as those involved faced untimely deaths. The surviving tree, standing tall today, bears witness to the importance of respecting the sacred bonds that tie the community to its spiritual roots.

Even with Christian churches dotting the landscape, the Ukwaakpu tree stands as a resilient reminder of Awhum’s genesis. It provides shade to those waiting for transportation, serves as an address, and, most importantly, remains a testament to the enduring spirit of a town unyielding in the face of evolving beliefs.

The Glory of Awhum Waterfall

The Awhum Waterfall is located at Amu-Ugwu village of Awhum town in Udi Local Government Area, Enugu State, Nigeria. It’s formed out of a massive outcrop of granite rock with water flow at the top forming a stream. Some part of the waterfall is usually warm through the seasons. The Awhum waterfall is 30 metres high and is located near the Awhum Monastery.

The water is said to be curative (have healing power) and capable of dispelling evil forces if and wherever it is sprinkled. It takes about 45 minutes’ walk from the parking spot to the fall. The site is particularly good for religious tourism.

Awhum’s waterfall is believed to have healing powers and the ability to ward off evil spirits. Because of this, a monastery was built close to the waterfall site. This has made the waterfall cave a pilgrimage and a prayer centre for Christians, the site is sacred and therefore entry to it is regulated by the monastery.

Awhum (sometimes spelled “Ohum”), is located in a lush green valley is famous not only for its waterfall, but also for its many pristine lakes and streams.

The Awhum Waterfall is also a popular tourist location in Nigeria

The Our Lady of Mount Calvary Monastery, a nearby Catholic organization, manages the water cave even though it is owned by the Awhum village people.

Visitors to the cave and waterfall (apart from locals) must pay a charge before being permitted entry. They can rent lodgings inside the monastery. Holidays like Christmas and Easter typically see more people visiting the monastery

A Culture Resilience Amidst Change

In a dance between old and new, masquerades still pay homage to the sacred tree. Indigenes seeking favor from their homeland continue to offer sacrifices, seamlessly blending tradition with the contemporary landscape. The town’s traditionalists, during “igo ofo” prayers, invoke the spirits, underscoring the deep connection that transcends time.

As modernity encroaches, the Ukwaakpu tree in Awhum stands as a living testament to an unending tradition. Its branches reach into the future, embracing the changing winds while holding steadfast to the roots that ground this extraordinary town.

The post Whispers from Awhum’s ancient history – A Living Heritage appeared first on ESUT Monitor.

By Paul Okah

The Christmas and New Year celebrations have come and gone, however, excessive spending during the yuletide always lands people in trouble, Paul Okah writes.

The Christmas celebration is over and many people are returning from different villages, for those who travelled, after the New Year celebration to face realities of life.

In different motor parks, vehicles travelling to cities like Lagos, Abuja, Calabar and Port Harcourt are highly sought afte

Checks revealed that many transportation companies have reduced the cost of transportation to different villages, whereas fares to cities have been hiked due to the rush.

In the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and most cities, businesses are yet to fully kick off as many people are gradually returning to resume their businesses, just as many offices are still offering skeletal offices.

As a result of the high cost of transportation fare and other fanfare that came with the festivities some people had resorted to borrowing money to meet up.

However, after the dust dies some people find themselves practically stranded. In extreme cases, some have had to sell off personal belonging like mobile phones to enable the return to their stations.

Those who cannot afford to sell their personal belonging often stay back in the village until middle or end of January, especially if they are self employed and have no urgent reason to rush back to their base.

For those who succeed in returning to their station despite the odds, they are forced to face the reality of paying school fees for their children, renewing house/shop rents or paying for new apartments, among other expenses.

Similarly, some lose their jobs or have to endure hardship in the face of late or non-payment of salaries by organisations

FCT residents recount experience

For most people sticking to budget remains their greatest challenge. This is more so during festivities as a civil servant, Mr Innocent Kunle, confirmed to our correspondent.

Speaking with Blueprint Weekend, Kunle said he spent more than he budgeted during the yuletide and was struggling to survive till the next salary would be paid.

He said: “I don’t know what made me to travel home for the Christmas. I would have resisted the temptation as I had to spend more than I budgeted. When I got home, it was as if everyone was waiting for me with one problem or the other needing urgent attention. If it wasn’t someone needing money to pay for hospital bill for his wife that just gave birth, it would be another person lacking food for Christmas and so on.

“Of course, in the spirit of Christmas, I had to give what I could for everyone to be happy. I even had to spend at weddings I didn’t even plan to attend before, just that I had to go with friends.

“I didn’t need anyone to tell me that the time was up immediately after the New Year as I was fast running out of money.

“I won’t lie to you; it has not been funny since my return to Abuja on Monday. Everywhere seems so locked up. I went to the office yesterday, but everywhere was so dry.

“Not many people have returned for the year, but I know things will start to improve from next week. My greatest concern is how to survive this month. I received my salary before travelling in December, so I have to wait for January salary before I can be able to afford certain things or even make better plans.

“Right now, I am hoping to borrow money from friends to be transporting myself to the office before my January salary arrives.”

On his part, a businessman, Peter Obiora, said he spent money meant for his house rent and presently hoping for a miracle to augment his rent or face problems with his landlord.

“I honestly didn’t have a memorable Christmas because of unexpected expenses. Some things I did not envisage to spend on just kept popping up.

“Children are always fun, so I had to spend on them as many relatives kept visiting with their children when they learnt that I was home for Christmas.

“My greatest headache now is getting N200,000 to complete my house rent. I pay N500,000 for a one bedroom apartment in Dutse and had the money saved before travelling home for Christmas. However, I had to dip into the money while at home because of unexpected expenses. One of my younger brothers was operated on, so I had to contribute to settle the hospital bill.

“It is not easy to ignore certain expenses especially if one has been away from the village for a long time.

“The cost of living also didn’t help matters as those selling in the village hiked prices though it was expected. I am a businessman and know all about making profit with demands. I know I will make the money for my rent by next month when businesses pick up, so I am hoping my landlord will understand.

“Even in business, things will not pick up until middle of the month or even end of the month. This is because many people who are not working will be waiting for transportation fare to come down. The business will continue being in the village until the end of the month when those who travelled to the village must have returned to the city.

“Many people will even be interested in buying items on credit and pay when they receive their January salaries, so it is usually not easy.”

Culled From Blueprint Newspaper

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In recent years, the deployment of 5G networks has sparked a technological revolution across various industries worldwide. Nigeria, with its vibrant tertiary education sector, stands on the brink of a paradigm shift in learning, research, and innovation fueled by the immense potential of 5G technology.

Unleashing Connectivity and Speed

The advent of 5G networks brings forth unparalleled connectivity and speed, presenting a monumental opportunity for tertiary institutions such as (ESUT). With data transfer rates up to 100 times faster than its predecessor, 5G facilitates instant access to vast troves of information, empowering students and educators alike.

In an academic landscape where research and collaboration are pivotal, 5G networks serve as the backbone for seamless communication and data exchange. Students can now engage in immersive virtual experiences, accessing resources and collaborating globally in real-time, transcending the constraints of physical boundaries.

Empowering Innovative Learning Environments

The integration of 5G technology in tertiary institutions fosters innovative learning environments. Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) applications powered by 5G networks revolutionize traditional teaching methods, offering experiential learning opportunities previously unimaginable. Imagine biology students dissecting virtual specimens or architecture students exploring intricate designs in a simulated environment. With 5G, these immersive experiences are within reach, enhancing comprehension and practical skills.

Enabling Smart Campus Solutions

Moreover, the implementation of 5G networks paves the way for smart campus solutions. From IoT-enabled devices optimizing resource utilization to real-time monitoring of campus facilities, 5G facilitates a network of interconnected systems, creating efficient and sustainable environments conducive to learning.

The impact of 5G in ESUT extends beyond the classroom, amplifying research and development endeavours. High-speed connectivity and low latency offered by 5G networks expedite data-intensive research processes. Collaborative projects involving complex simulations, big data analysis, and AI-driven research thrive in this environment, propelling academic institutions towards ground-breaking discoveries. While the prospects of 5G in tertiary institution like (ESUT) are promising, challenges such as infrastructure development, security concerns, and accessibility need addressing.

Adequate investment, policy frameworks, and collaborations between government, academia, and industry stakeholders are imperative to harnessing the full potential of 5G technology.

Conclusion

The emergence of 5G networks heralds a new era for tertiary education in Nigeria, redefining the boundaries of learning, innovation, and collaboration. Its transformative capabilities empower students, educators, and researchers, propelling the nation towards academic excellence and technological advancement. Embracing and harnessing the potential of 5G networks will undoubtedly position Nigerian tertiary institutions at the forefront of global education innovation.

The post 5G Network Deployment in ESUT: enhancing innovation, promoting research, learning appeared first on ESUT Monitor.

In the gentle cradle of the earth, a tiny nut began a special journey, most times, untamed, growing into the magnificent giant palm tree. Emerging from the ground, it became a beautiful sight, wearing fronds that shared stories of strength and life. This simple start marked the beginning of an extraordinary tree, quietly giving to nature’s melody.

As the palm tree grow, it became a part of life’s circle. With fronds adorning its form, producing seeds called banga—a precious gift for making oil. The canel nut, a sidekick to this nature’s wonder, had the secret to refining, creating a creamy essence for various tasty dishes.

Yet, the palm’s magic went beyond food. Its nut shelf, once collected, showed another skill—it danced in flames. During rainy seasons, it stood by, keeping the fire warm and ensuring the kitchen continued its cozy tales. The palm tree’s legacy intertwined with comforting stories around the fire sustains humanity.

The journey didn’t end there. Through careful grinding of its nuts, a golden liquid flowed—palm oil, a treasure with many uses. The chaff, often overlooked, became a secret kindling, lighting fires effortlessly like a seasoned performer on nature’s stage.

Craftsmanship and the palm tree joined hands. Sturdy sticks from its wood crafted intricate baskets, each strand a sign of the teamwork between people and nature. These baskets, strong and practical, echoed the tree’s silent craftsmanship. The baskets so made, aids man in his daily routine.

The palm’s leaves, like ancient brooms, become storytellers. Whispering in the wind, they shared tales of days gone by, a reminder of the tree’s enduring presence in life’s fabric.

Palm tree has immeasurable attributable qualities it renders to man. When carefully tapped by men sophisticated in gaining its wine content it offers in bounty for man’s relaxation and financial inclination. Wine, when shared in commonality enthroned peace and unity.

It stands tallest among its peers and provides shed below for other animals to take comfort. On a sunny harmattan season, little children, hinted by hunger, goes around the palm tree in search of solitary kernels to crack, eat and quench hunger.

Even in its last act, the palm tree had a purpose. When its fruitful days passed, it gracefully becomes firewood, offering warmth and comfort in its final moments. From its humble beginning to the quiet end, the palm tree stood as a loyal friend in humanity’s journey.

In nature’s grand picture, the palm tree played many roles—a conductor in life’s symphony, weaving threads of usefulness, skill, and tradition. Reflecting on the palm’s dance with the elements, we find a touching reminder of the beautiful connection between people and the natural world.

Watching the birds perch on the leaves of a giant palm tree in our compound, older than my grand father, and how serene they are, gives hope and assurance that the tree offers shelter just as it can also be used by man to roof his house.

The post The Palm Tree: Nature’s Amazing Gift to Humanity appeared first on ESUT Monitor.

In the heart of Bethlehem, where Christmas usually unfolds like a jubilant tapestry of lights, carols, and joy, an unprecedented hush has fallen over the ancient city. This year, the birthplace of Jesus Christ finds itself entangled in a narrative far removed from the traditional festive spirit, as Christmas celebrations stand cancelled, replaced by an unexpected scene of mourning.

As the world eagerly anticipates the season of love and celebration, Bethlehem’s streets remain devoid of the customary glittering lights, Christmas trees, and lively parades. The city’s skyline, once painted with the hues of merriment, now tells a different tale – one of resilience, solidarity, and hope amid the ruins.

The iconic manger, symbolizing the humble birth of Jesus, now stands in stark contrast to its usual festive surroundings. Instead of a stable filled with warmth, this year’s manger finds itself nestled amidst the remnants of what once was, resembling a house destroyed in the wake of conflict. The image is hauntingly reminiscent of children being pulled from the rubble during the tumultuous clashes in the region.

Musther Isaac, a pastor at the Evangelical Lutheran Christmas Church in Bethlehem, shared poignant insights into the significance of this year’s muted celebration. He expressed, “From this idea of the manger for Christmas this year, it sends a message of Jesus’ solidarity with those who are oppressed and suffering. Therefore, it’s a message of comfort and hope to us but also to the world of what Christmas looks like in Bethlehem.”

The cancelled festivities beg a larger question – is this a glimpse into a world facing its end, or a poignant reminder that trials and tribulations are transient? Bethlehem’s silent night urges contemplation on the global stage, inviting us to ponder the true essence of Christmas beyond the usual revelry.

This unexpected turn of events in Bethlehem challenges the conventional narrative of the holiday season, prompting a reflection on the collective human experience in times of adversity. As we navigate these uncharted waters, the city’s muted Christmas serves as a profound reminder that even in the absence of traditional celebrations, the spirit of hope and solidarity persists.

Bethlehem’s silent night beckons us to find meaning in the midst of rubble, to seek hope in solidarity, and to discover the true essence of Christmas in a world yearning for light amidst the darkness.

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In the annals of Nigerian academia, the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has emerged as a key player, passionately advocating for the welfare and interests of academic staff since its establishment in 1978. As the custodians of knowledge and mentors to the nation’s future leaders, the union’s journey has been marked by a recurrent and tumultuous dance with the Federal Government, a narrative that often unfolds in the form of strikes.

Picture this: 1999, the year the clock started ticking on what would become a series of disruptions to academic calendars. A five-month hiatus ensued, a foreshadowing of a pattern that would persist over the next two decades. Like a turbulent saga, the union and the government engaged in a complex dance, resulting in strikes of varying durations – each carrying its own set of grievances and promises.

In 2001, the rhythm changed but not the tune, as a three-month break marked another chapter in the struggle for better working conditions and increased funding for universities. It wasn’t just a fleeting discord; the echoes of disagreement reverberated in 2003 with a six-month strike. The years that followed witnessed a similar cadence of interruptions, varying from weeks to months, with each strike punctuating the plea for a resolution to perennial challenges.

Fast forward to 2020, a year that etched a historic nine-month hiatus into the academic landscape. The strife between ASUU and the Federal Government reached a crescendo, leaving students in limbo and the nation questioning the sustainability of this recurring discord.

While this chronicle of ASUU strikes paints a vivid picture of a persistent struggle, it intertwines with a recent development – a decision by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) to grant universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education exemption from the Integrated Personnel Payroll Information System (IPPIS) payment platform. The move signifies an attempt to uphold the autonomy of tertiary institutions, a gesture welcomed by academic leaders seeking independence in personnel management.

However, against this backdrop of institutional autonomy, the effects of the prolonged ASUU strike are stark. Reports reveal a toll on academic staff, with instances of fatalities, sickness, and heightened psychological stress. The wastage of manpower and the subsequent reduction of morale among academic staff compound the challenges faced by public universities in Nigeria. Critical programmes, including staff development initiatives, have been suspended, contributing to a potential brain drain as academics explore opportunities abroad.

Moreover, the strike has led to the suspension of teaching and research programmes, disrupting the academic calendar and impacting students. The ripple effects are far-reaching, affecting not only the immediate academic community but also raising concerns about the long-term consequences on the quality and competitiveness of Nigerian higher education.

As this intricate tapestry unfolds, the history of ASUU and the recent FEC decision become threads in the larger narrative of Nigeria’s quest for a harmonious and effective higher education system. The challenges are evident, but the path to resolution lies in comprehensive reforms that address the longstanding concerns of academic staff and ensure the sustained and uninterrupted functioning of higher education institutions in the country.

After all, when two elephants engage in a fight, it always the grasses beneath them that bear the brunt. It is time to allow students breathe.

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