The University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), has released an official notice for its Postgraduate Orientation Exercise for the 2023/2024 academic session. This orientation is organized for all newly admitted postgraduate students in the 2023/2024 academic session across various faculties and departments, in both Nsukka and Enugu Campuses of the University. Aiming to help them smoothly transition into their programs and make the most of their academic experience at UNN.

The orientation will cover essential aspects of academic, administrative, and social life at the university and is designed to address the unique needs of postgraduate students, whether pursuing Master’s, Ph.D., or Postgraduate Diploma programs.

Program for the Orientation: Date, Time, and Venue of the Orientation

The university has scheduled this orientation as an in-person event, and attendance is mandatory for all new postgraduate students.

Day 1: Wednesday November 20th 2024 – General Online Orientation

10.00am – 10.05am     :           Opening Prayer

10.05am – 10.20am     :           Address by the Provost, College of Postgraduate Studies

10.20am – 10.40am     :           Address by the Vice Chancellor and declaration of the orientation programme open

10.40am – 11.00am     :           Address by the College Secretary/Deputy Registrar: ‘Issues on the  revised postgraduate regulations and timetable’

11.00am – 12.00pm    :           Keynote address by Prof. Uzo Okoye: ‘Addressing Societal and Environmental Challenges through Postgraduate Training and Innovative Research Outcomes”.

12.00am – 12.20am     :           Skill Acquisition as a Panacea to Unemployment by Prof. (Mrs) A. I. C. Ezeibe

12.20pm – 12.40pm    :           Talk by the University Librarian (Dr. (Mrs) Promise Ilo): ‘Optimal use of library resources in modern research’

12.40pm – 01.00pm    :           Talk by the Director, ICT (Mr. Paul Oranu): ‘ICT tools available on campus for postgraduate study and research’

01.00pm – 01.20pm    :            Talk by Dean, Student Affairs (Prof. Boniface O. Ugwuishiwu): ‘The Role of Student Affairs Department in Providing Enabling Environment for Healthy Postgraduate Studies.

01.20pm – 01.40pm    :           Speech by PG Hall Governor (Nsukka Campus): ‘Self-care and Care for Others in the Postgraduate Hostel

01.40pm – 02.00pm    :           Questions/Reactions from the Students

02.00pm – 02.05pm    :           Closing Prayer

 Day 2: Thursday   November 21st  2024 – Orientation at Departments and Faculties

At the Department

9.00am            – 9.05am        :           Opening Prayer

9.05am – 9.25am         :           Address by the Head of Department

9.25am – 9.40am         :           Address by the Departmental Postgraduate Coordinator

9.40am – 10.00am       :           Address by a Senior Academic in the Department

10.00am – 10.20am     :           Questions/Answers/Responses from the Students

10.20am – 10.25am     :           Closing Prayer

10.25am – 11.30am     :           Tour of the Departmental Teaching/Research Facilities

At the Faculty

2.00pm – 2.05pm        :           Opening Prayer

2.05pm – 2.20pm        :           Address by the Dean of Faculty

2.20pm – 2.45pm        :           Address by the Faculty Rep. to CPGS Board

2.45pm – 3.00pm        :           Address by the Immediate past Dean or another Senior Academic in the Faculty

3.00pm – 3.20pm        :           Questions/Answers/Responses from the Students

3.20pm – 3.25pm        :           Closing Prayer

3.25pm – 4.00pm        :           Tour of Faculty Research Facilities/Library

This is in line with the vision of the current University Administration to reposition the postgraduate programs for global competitiveness through timeliness, excellence and ethical conduct. The orientation program is a proactive enlightenment effort to acquaint the students with necessary procedures and regulations and motivate them onto high level performances that will minimize cases of delayed graduation, failures and other mistakes that could arise from ignorance.

/Sgd./

Professor Obioma Njoku

Provost, College of Postgraduate Studies

Objectives of the Orientation

The primary goals of the UNN Postgraduate Orientation Exercise include:

1. Introduction to Academic Life: Students will receive an overview of the university’s academic standards, resources, and expectations for postgraduate scholars. Faculty deans and department heads will be present to offer insights into program structures, course requirements, and evaluation methods.
2. Guidance on Research Processes: UNN places a strong emphasis on research excellence. Students will receive guidance on research methodologies, thesis writing, and academic integrity. Presenters will also discuss available resources, such as libraries and online research databases.
3. Familiarization with University Resources and Facilities: Postgraduate students will be introduced to various university facilities, including research centers, laboratories, libraries, and study areas. This session will also cover administrative services such as student accounts, the registrar’s office, and health and counseling services.
4. Policies and Regulations: A significant part of the orientation will be dedicated to informing students about the university’s policies, especially those related to academic progress, research ethics, and disciplinary procedures.
5. Career and Development Support: The university will highlight career support services for postgraduate students. These services include career counseling, workshops on job placement, internship opportunities, and professional development seminars.

Key Sessions and Activities

The orientation will feature a series of sessions led by university officials, faculty members, and other experts. Key sessions will include:

• Welcome Address: Delivered by the Dean of the School of Postgraduate Studies to formally welcome new students and introduce them to the vision and mission of the institution.
• Academic Session Overview: Faculty members will discuss program details, including coursework, research projects, and expectations for each program type (Master’s, Ph.D., and Postgraduate Diploma).
• Research and Thesis Writing Workshops: These workshops are tailored to familiarize students with effective research strategies and writing techniques.
• Networking and Social Interaction: The orientation will include networking opportunities to help students connect with their peers, faculty, and administrative staff. This is an excellent chance to meet potential collaborators and mentors.

Essential Information for New Students

• Attendance Requirements: Participation in the orientation is mandatory. Attendees are advised to arrive on time and stay throughout the entire program.
• Documentation: Students should bring any required identification documents and copies of their admission letters for verification purposes.
• Dress Code: Students are expected to dress in formal or business attire.

Benefits of Attending the Orientation

Participating in the orientation will help students:

1. Understand University Protocols: Gain insight into the academic expectations, policies, and support services available for postgraduates.
2. Build Connections: Network with faculty, fellow postgraduate students, and administrative staff to form a supportive academic community.
3. Gain Confidence: Familiarizing oneself with the campus, facilities, and resources will make it easier for students to focus on their studies and research.

Final Thoughts

The UNN Postgraduate Orientation Exercise for the 2023/2024 academic session marks the beginning of a transformative academic journey. UNN is committed to fostering a supportive environment for postgraduate students and helping them achieve academic and professional success. All new postgraduate students are encouraged to attend, take notes, ask questions, and take advantage of this unique opportunity to set a strong foundation for their time at UNN.