The national body of the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike Alumni Association led by Dr Oscar Obasi Igwe recently recognised two distinguished alumni for establishing academic awards in the university.
Dr Kelechi Okereke a U.S based medical practitioner and Dr sir D.N.C Onukwo now a lecturer in the University are both graduates of the institution who has set up endowment funds to be awarded to the best graduating students from Microbiology and Animal science respectively.
Onukwo who is an erudite scholar excelled and obtained several academic grants, awards and prizes at both international and local levels. He is the research program leader of the Animal Production and improvement program; who has supervised and successfully graduated postgraduate students and graduate students. He is a member of the Nigerian Institute of Animal Science, the Agricultural Society of Nigeria, the British Society of Animal Science and a registered animal scientist.
He is a pioneer student of the then Federal University of Agriculture, Umudike; now the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, a former Student union government president and the first Igwe of the institution- Igwe Ochendo.
Onkyo has contributed to the development of his immediate environment, conducting a technical study on waste to wealth, the improvement and utilization of none conventional feedstuff as energy and protein source for poultry, rabbit and swine production among others.
Dr Kelechi Okereke who is a resident doctor at the department of pediatric dentistry, Howard University, provides advice on proper brushing, flossing, cleaning, healthy gums, and other dental care.
Dr Kelechi Okereke is advocating for periodic child dentist visits to dictate early tooth disease if any.
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Dr Okereke stated during a lecture on dental health in MOUAU d that people rarely visit a dentist for routine checks up unless when there is a problem.
He affirmed that the economic situation in Nigeria is frustrating but advised frequent visits; if it’s once in one or two years.
In his submission, the National Chairman, MOUAU Alumni Association, Dr Obasi Iwe Oscar advised the alumnus to give back to society notwithstanding the challenges they passed through as a student.
Vikrant Massey said, “recognition is a reward in itself. Any form of appreciation, even a small word, is important”.
