By Ubong Inyang, Calabar

Former Minister of Culture and Tourism, High Chief Edem Duke has expressed delight with the state of affairs in the University of Calabar, saying the institution is a shining example to other Universities in the country.

High Chief Duke stated this when he paid a working visit on the Vice Chancellor of UNICAL.

According to him, the institution has taken its pride of place among the comity of varsities in the country, adding that the developmental strides of the current Vice Chancellor of the institution, Prof. Zana Akpagu speak volumes.

The former Minister said the serene environment, orderliness, peace and tranquility enjoyed by the University Community is as a result of the dexterity, ingenuity and intellectual acumen of the current leadership of the institution. Duke said, I am delighted with the state of affairs of the University.

“Before now we were worried about the level of security and insecurity on campus but presently we have noticed that there is orderliness, peace and tranquility and we are proud of what you have done He said the future of the country belongs to youths, stressing that any country that does not invest in the youths is bound to fail.”

Duke, who said the education sector of the country is in a state of disrepair, expressed his desire to partner with the institution on educational advancement.

“The value that used to be placed on educational pursuit is eroded, people are more concerned about pursuing money but knowledge drives society. I come with great passion to work with the academic community,” he stated.

Responding, the Vice Chancellor of UNICAL, Prof. Zana Akpagu said he was happy with Dukes uncommon display of humility for the academic, saying that it shows that he is a man of character and integrity who is passionate about academic excellence.

The Vice Chancellor who spoke through the Deputy Vice Chancellor (academic) described the visit as a landmark visit, saying it would be of utmost benefit to the institution especially as it bothers education.

Prof. Akpagu said Duke performed creditably well during his time as Minister of tourism even as he wished him well in his future political ambition.

He said, “we are looking forward to partnering with you to lift our citadel of learning to greater heights. I must say that we were pleased with your performance as Minister of Culture and Tourism because you recorded remarkable achievements.

Earlier, the President of the Student Union Government (SUG), Comrade Kelvin Eyam who led Duke on the visit described him as a man who is passionate about youth development, stressing that students of the institution are happy to associate with him.

Also speaking, Dean of Students Affairs, Dr. Enang Udah said Dukes visit would open up new vistas of opportunities and collaboration on possible ways of advancing the course of education in the institution.