April 17th, 2025, will remain fresh in the annals of history of the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Anambra State, as the polytechnic community, for the first time in history of the school, rolled out drums to organize sendforth ceremony in honour of two distinguished academics and administrators, Dr. Ubaka Chukwugekwu Eugene, and Dr. Uchenna Bertram Onyegbu, both former Acting Rectors of the institution.
The event, organized at the polytechnic’s main auditorium, attracted members of the polytechnic community, family members of the retirees, as well as friends, colleagues and well wishers.
In her welcome address, the Rector of the polytechnic, Dr (Mrs) Irene Chioma Awuzi, said that the event was not mere retirement but a celebration of purpose, dedication, and enduring legacy.
“We are gathered to salute, not just years of service, but a lifetime of impact, marked by unwavering commitment to academic excellence, institutional growth, and ethical leadership,” the rector told her audience.
“Dr. Ubaka Chukwugekwu and Dr. Uche Onyegbu, your stewardship came at defining moments in the history of this polytechnic. You led with wisdom, calm resolve, and a keen understanding of our institution’s evolving needs. Through your transitional leadership, you safeguarded the stability and relevance of the polytechnic and created the conditions for sustained progress.
“As the current rector, I stand on foundations that your administrations helped to strengthen. You both bore the responsibilities of leadership with integrity, grace, and deep sense of duty, ensuring a seamless continuation of the polytechnic’s core values and strategic direction. You held the torch high, and today, we are better for it.
“Retirement, as we know, is not an end, but a new chapter – one that comes with the satisfaction of a job well done. I hope you both find joy in your reflections, pride in your achievements, and peace in knowing that your legacies are firmly etched in the annals of Federal Polytechnic, Oko.”
She further asked the retirees to always make their services available whenever they’re requested to do so; saying that as fathers, they would always be called upon for advice and constructive guidance.
One of the retirees, Dr. Ubaka Chukwugekwu, commended the rector for her wisdom in organizing the event, which he said, was the first of its kind in the institution.
Though retired, Dr. Chukwugekwu declared that he is not yet tired, and that he is still available for any other duty as he might be called upon to perform in the polytechnic.
“I am not yet tired. I only retire from active service; but I’m still available for more work. Wherever my service is needed, I am always available – I’ll be there for the polytechnic,” he said.
In his own response, Dr. Uche Onyegbu, also praised the rector for deeming it necessary to organize the sendforth for him and his colleague. He also thanked the polytechnic community for the support and cooperation extended to him during his tenure as Acting Rector, and begged them to extend such gesture to the new Rector, Dr. Awuzie.
Dr. Onyegbu further assured that though he retired from active service, yet he would be happy to work with the new rector, Dr. Awuzie, who he described as a unique personality.
A number of staff of the polytechnic, who bared their minds at the event, spoke highly about the two retirees, describing them as legends, and examples of what true leaders should be.
Giving of plaques and gifts to the retirees by the Rector, Dr. Irene Awuzie, formed highpoints of the ceremony.
