Newly Appointed VC, Dominican University, Ibadan Prof Opara Meets With Principal Officers & Senior Management, List Out Cardinal Agendas To Achieve Set Goals

Ahead of her assumption of office on Monday, 1^st July 2024, Dominican University, newly appointed Vice Chancellor, Professor Jacinta Opara set the ball rolling when she held a meeting with principal officers and senior Management of the university on Wednesday, 25^th June 2024.

In her address, Prof. Opara said she expressed her profound sense of gratitude and excitement as she stepped into the role of Vice Chancellor of Dominican University.

According to her while speaking to the Principal Officers and senior management of the institution she said; “It is both an honour and a privilege to join a community renowned for its commitment to academic excellence, innovative research, and the holistic development of its students. First and foremost, I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to each of you for your warm welcome. Your support and encouragement during this transition have been invaluable, and I look forward to working closely with all of you to build upon the university’s rich legacy.”

Prof Opara said; “As we embark on this new chapter together, I am deeply aware of the unique challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. The landscape of higher education is continually evolving, influenced by technological advancements, shifting societal needs, and global interconnectedness. To navigate these changes effectively, we must be agile, forward-thinking, and united in our vision. Our university has always been a beacon of knowledge and a pillar of our community.”

“It is my intention to continue fostering an environment where intellectual curiosity thrives, where diversity and inclusion are not just embraced but celebrated, and where our students are prepared to become leaders and innovators in their respective fields.” She said.

While addressing the school’s top management and principal officers she proposed 5 cardinal agendas upon which she is intended to achieve her set goals while holding sway as the Vice Chancellor of the institution. These goals she highlighted as Academic Excellence and Innovation, Community Engagement and Partnership: Strengthening, Sustainability and Responsibility, Support and Development of Our People and Enhancing the Student Experience.

Speaking she said; To achieve these goals, I propose the following key areas of focus:

1. Academic Excellence and Innovation: We will prioritize cutting-edge research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the integration of technology into our curriculum to ensure our students receive a world-class education that prepares them for the future.

2. Community Engagement and Partnership: Strengthening our ties with local, national, and global communities will enhance our relevance and impact. We will seek meaningful partnerships that provide real-world learning opportunities for our students and contribute positively to society.

3. Sustainability and Responsibility: As stewards of this institution, we have a duty to operate sustainably and responsibly. We will implement initiatives that promote environmental sustainability, fiscal responsibility, and social equity.

4. Support and Development of Our People: Our faculty, staff, and students are the heart of this university. Investing in professional development, fostering a supportive work environment, and recognizing excellence will be paramount.

5. Enhancing the Student Experience: From admissions to graduation, we must ensure that every student’s journey is enriching, supportive, and empowering. This includes improving facilities, expanding support services, and promoting extracurricular engagement. As we move forward, I am committed to maintaining open lines of communication and fostering a culture of collaboration. I encourage you all to share your ideas, insights, and feedback as we work together to shape the future of Dominican University. In closing, I would like to express my deepest appreciation for your dedication and hard work. Each of you plays a vital role in the success of the university, and I am excited about what we can achieve together. Let us embrace this opportunity to innovate, inspire, and excel.