Nigerian university invites applications for VC position

In a significant development, the Governing Council of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU) in Igboariam, Anambra, has announced the vacancy for the position of Vice-Chancellor.

In a statement issued in Awka on Thursday, Mr. Chris Obi, the Registrar of the university, confirmed that the Council is calling for applications from eligible candidates for the prestigious role.

Obi, who also serves as the Secretary of the Governing Council, mentioned that the application window, which began on January 2, will be open for a period of eight weeks.

He emphasized that applicants must hold the rank of professor and have substantial experience in academic leadership, teaching, and research.

“The Vice-Chancellor shall hold office for a single, non-renewable tenure of not more than five years subject to good behaviour,” Obi stated.

Further details provided by Obi indicated that applicants should have a minimum of 15 years of experience in teaching, research, service, or leadership roles in the academic sphere, either within Nigeria or abroad. Additionally, the candidates must demonstrate strong academic and moral leadership.

The position is open only to candidates who will not reach the age of 65 by the time of appointment. The applicants are also required to have earned a doctoral degree in a field compatible with the university’s academic offerings.

“The candidate shall provide evidence of successful supervision of postgraduate students, especially at the Ph.D. level,” Obi said.

Obi also stressed that the applicants should be in good physical and mental health to perform the responsibilities of the Vice-Chancellor and other related duties as assigned by the university’s Governing Council.

Applicants must submit a written essay detailing their vision and goals for the university, with a proposed framework for implementing these ideas, in no more than 750 words.

The referees for each applicant must include at least one male and one female, as well as a non-Nigerian referee familiar with the candidate’s professional accomplishments. The reference letters must confirm that the candidate did not assist in the preparation of the confidential report, which will be sent directly to the Registrar.

Obi concluded by noting that the vacancy is open to all qualified individuals, irrespective of gender, ethnicity, religion, political affiliation, nationality, or social class.