By Ify Obi
UNICEF in partnership with Nnamdi Azikiwe University has officially launched an Institute of Social Policy in the Institution.
Launching the the Institute at UNIZIK Auditorium yesterday , the UNICEF representative in Nigeria, Ms Cristian Munduate appreciated Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka for partnering the UNICEF to establish the Institute which would enhance research, generate evidence and formulate policies as well as develop human capacity among individuals and government Institutions in Nigeria.
She stated that the initiative marks a critical step towards building a robust group of professionals who will drive evidence- based policy planning and implementation in Nigeria.
Ms Munduate noted that with the partnership with academic institutions, they will eventually establish a foundation for sustainable social development that emphasises the rights of children and women.
The Vice Chancellor Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka Professor Joseph Ikechebelu represented by his special assistant on academic professor Ada thanked UNICEF for partnering Unizik in establishing such innovative institute in Unizik stating that such move will not only engage manpower development and capacity building that will address societal needs but would also help address tensions and crises between government and citizens.
The Anambra State Governor Professor Chukwuma Soludo said the social policy is the bridge for peaceful coexistence in every community and described the Institute of social policy as one of those progressive developments that happens in any progressive institutions like Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka.
Governor Soludo represented by Anambra State Commissioner for Education Professor Ngozi Chuma-ude further said he has brought education to the door steps of every child in Anambra State through his free education programme from primary to secondary schools noting that he is working with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) agenda towards caring for the children of the state.
In his speech the Director of the Institute, Prof. Uche Collins Nwogwugwu who was overtly excited said the partnership will help enhance research, formulate policies and develop human capacity.
He stated that their is availability of post graduate degrees including masters of Science and Doctor of Philosophy in social policy.
Highlight was unavailing of Social Policy Curriculum handbook and cutting of cake.
