Gregory University signs MoU with UCCIMA to run programmes

Following the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between Gregory University, Uturu, Abia State, and Umuahia Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines and Agriculture (UCCIMA), members of the Organised Private Sector (OPS) can now run programmes in the university.

Speaking after signing the MoU, Augustine Uwakwe, vice-chancellor, Gregory University Uturu, pointed out that the MoU would afford the institution the opportunity to utilize the potential in UCCIMA through the collaboration to boost entrepreneurial and soft skills development in the state.

“I feel elated to have this level of collaboration and cooperation with the Umuahia Chamber of Commerce. It is a worthwhile thing in the interest of both Abians and Gregory University at large”, he said.

In his speech, Chidi Nkem Oruoma, the UCCIMA president, said the signing of the MoU with GUU was part of the Chamber’s efforts to build bridges and link all major stakeholders in trade and investment together.

He expressed optimism that the members of the Organized Private Sector would seize the opportunity offered by the collaboration to dust up their curriculum vitae.

He disclosed that UCCIMA had earlier signed a similar MoU with some universities in Ukraine, Turkey, Russia, and Bangladesh, including the prestigious V.N Karazin National University, Ukraine, and Karazin Business School, Ukraine.

Aruoma further hinted at the vision of UCCIMA to expand working relationships with other corporate bodies and stakeholders in the Organized Private Sector.

“It is my desire to build long-lasting solid educational, trade, and investment bridges. If our businesses grow, the economy will grow and more employment opportunities would be opened for our youths,” Aruoma said.

In another development, the UCCIMA boss advised the Abia State government to procure modern fire-fighting equipment and facilities to strengthen the State Fire Service for quick and effective response to emergencies.

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The UCCIMA president gave the advice while reacting to the fire incident, which took place in Umuahia recently where it was perceived that the firefighters in the capital city found it difficult to stop the inferno as they lacked adequate facilities.

He opined that if the state fire service is properly equipped with fire-fighting equipment it would go a long way to safeguarding the lives and property of the citizenry.

He maintained that the procurement/provision of equipment like compound fumes used in fighting oil-related incidents, rescue lines, safety kits, uniforms among other basic facilities would serve as a motivation to the fire service officers, and also fire-fighting services would be taken to greater heights.

Aruoma decried the damages recorded by the owners of the facilities torched by the fire disaster, which occurred during the state’s monthly sanitation exercise.