After years of waiting, a total of 5,922 graduands of the Delta State College of Health Sciences and Technology, Ofuoma-Ughelli, received their certificates on Saturday, as the institution held its 8th Convocation Ceremony.
The convocation brought together graduates from 2017 to 2025.
Noting that many of the graduands had waited several years to formally receive their certificates, the Provost of the college, Dr. (Mrs.) Odiete Eravweroso Congrat said: “This convocation represents closure, restoration, and the fulfilment of a long-awaited academic right.”
She disclosed that the convocation covered graduates over an eight-year period, stressing that the delay had not diminished their achievement.
“Delay is not denial. You are graduating at a time when Nigeria needs competent, ethical, and compassionate health professionals more than ever,” she told the graduands.
Dr. Odiete thanked the Delta State Government for its support, while urging the graduates to uphold professionalism, discipline and compassion, adding that “while certificates qualify you to practice, character will ultimately determine your impact.”
Representing the Governor and Visitor to the institution, the Commissioner for Higher Education, Prof. Nyerhovwo Tonukari, congratulated the graduands and encouraged them to pursue further studies.
He also commended the management for organising convocation after a long interval and conveyed the governor’s goodwill to the college.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Governing Council, Chief Dr. Chris Oharisi, described the event as a celebration of perseverance and purpose.
“As graduates of this institution, you are stepping into a world that urgently needs your competence, integrity, and humanity,” he said.
Highlights of the ceremony included the presentation of awards to best graduating students, conferment of Honorary Fellowship and Distinguished Personality Awards, and the award of certificates, National Diplomas and Higher National Diplomas to the graduands.
