DIUSCADI Confers Patronage on UNIZIK Vice-Chancellor, Seeks Partnership on Youth Skills Development
The Vice-Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Prof. Ugochukwu Bond Stanley Anyaehie, on Monday, June 29, 2026, received a delegation from the Digitalised Initiative for Up-skilling Career Development and Innovation (DIUSCADI) during a courtesy visit to his office, where he was formally informed of his nomination as a Patron of the initiative and invited to its forthcoming annual career development programme.
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, the Team Leader, Prof. Ikechukwu Umeh, explained that DIUSCADI is an initiative of the Dr. Ikechukwu Umeh Career Development Initiative. He stated that the programme was conceived in 2020 after observing that many university graduates completed their studies without adequate preparation for life and career after graduation.
According to him, the annual initiative was established to bridge this gap by equipping students and young graduates with practical, industry-relevant skills that enhance employability, innovation and entrepreneurial capacity.
Prof. Umeh disclosed that the 2026 edition, the seventh in the series, would feature the installation of selected patrons, with the Vice-Chancellor among those honoured in recognition of his outstanding commitment to youth development and educational advancement.
He formally invited Prof. Anyaehie to the Life After School Career Development Seminar Series (LASCADSS), scheduled to hold on July 24 and 25, 2026, at the ASUU Multi-Purpose Hall, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka.
He further revealed that this year’s edition would include hands-on training in software development, Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) installation and other digital and technical skills aimed at preparing participants for emerging career opportunities. He added that the previous edition rewarded a lucky participant with a brand-new laptop as part of efforts to encourage excellence and active participation.
Responding, the Vice-Chancellor expressed appreciation to the delegation for the honour and commended DIUSCADI for its unwavering commitment to youth empowerment and career development.
Prof. Anyaehie disclosed that the University has established a Digital Skills, Innovation and Artificial Intelligence Centre under its Directorate of Entrepreneurship to strengthen students’ digital competencies and prepare them for the rapidly evolving global economy.
He further revealed that the University has entered into strategic partnerships with organisations that will provide training in Artificial Intelligence and other computer-related skills, while arrangements have also been concluded for the establishment of a German Training Centre on campus.
Highlighting the University’s drive towards innovation and practical learning, the Vice-Chancellor announced that following an official visit to a solar farm in Enugu involved in the production of solar-powered tricycles, an agreement had been reached to establish a solar tricycle assembly plant at the University. He explained that the project would actively involve the Engineering Faculties, the University’s ICT Directorate and students, thereby creating opportunities for hands-on training, research and technological innovation.
Describing youth empowerment as one of the cardinal priorities of his administration, Prof. Anyaehie expressed delight at his nomination as a Patron of DIUSCADI and assured the delegation of his attendance at the forthcoming programme.
“I am very excited about youth empowerment, and I will be there to receive my patronship,” the Vice-Chancellor stated.
The visit concluded with the presentation of a souvenir to the Vice-Chancellor by members of the delegation.
Other members of the delegation included Dr. Kobimdi Umeh, Mrs. Kanu Mavis Obianuju, Prof. Derek Orji and Mr. Azubue Prince C.