The University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH) held her second Joint school convocation ceremony on the 19 of December 2024, celebrating excellence as graduating students from her five (5) colleges. The event brought together graduands, dignitaries, and senior management of the institution. This second convocation ceremony marks a milestone in the institution’s commitment to academic excellence and healthcare service.
The ceremony began with a grand procession of the Joint Schools Board, and the academia setting a formal tone for the day. Key members of the institution’s leadership were introduced and recognized for their contributions to the mission of the colleges. Among them were the Chairman of the Joint School’s Board Prof. Datonye Alasia, who doubles as the Chairman Medical Advisory Committee; Deputy CMAC of the hospital. Deputy CMAC, Prof. Bashiru Braimoh, the special guest of honor and Provost of the College of Health Sciences; DCMACs Prof.D. Alfred, and Dr.Eneh Nkoyo, Provost of the College of Nursing Sciences. Mrs. Ibiye George, Other notable persons include, Head of Audit Mr. Temple Obiri, Coordinator College Health Sciences Mrs. Duke Daye , School of Social Development and Occupational Therapy, Stella Diri , School of Health Information Management, Mrs. Joyce Woko .
The opening remarks were delivered by Prof. Datonye Alasia, who warmly welcomed attendees and underscored the significance of the event. He emphasized the dual role of the institution as both a hospital and an academic environment, highlighting its dedication to training healthcare professionals across various disciplines. Prof. Alasia expressed pride in the graduation of over 250 students, a milestone that aligns with national goals of strengthening the healthcare workforce. He commended the graduates for their perseverance and hard work, urging them to apply their training effectively in their future careers.
Following this, Prof. Bashiru Braimoh addressed the gathering, congratulating the graduates and reminding them of their new role as ambassadors of the institution. He stressed the importance of upholding the institution’s values and maintaining professionalism, assuring the audience of the high standard of training provided. His speech served as both encouragement and a reminder of the responsibilities that come with their new qualifications.
The ceremony also featured goodwill messages, starting with a heartfelt address by the Head of Department, Medical Social Services Mr. Wilfred Tande, He thanked the graduates for their dedication and encouraged them to positively represent the institution in their professional journey. His message underscored the importance of loyalty and pride in one’s alma mater.
The awards segment of the ceremony celebrated outstanding achievements, with special recognition given to the best graduating students from each school. The College of Nursing Sciences led the graduation tally with 140 students, followed by the College of Community Health with 110 graduates spanning three cohorts . The School of Health Information Management recorded 79 graduates, and the School of Social Development and Occupational Therapy graduated 115 students.
The highlight of the event was the valedictory speech delivered by Chioma Cynthia Nnadozie. She eloquently recounted the challenges faced by students during their academic journey, noting how these experiences shaped them into capable professionals. Chioma expressed gratitude to the institution’s management and mentors for their unwavering support, attributing the graduates’ success to their collective dedication.
The ceremony concluded with closing remarks from the Chairman of the Joint School Board, who commended the efforts of all involved in making the event a success. The joint school convocation was a testament to the University of Port Harcourt’s dedication to academic excellence and its pivotal role in strengthening the nation’s healthcare sector.
