Unizik Holds Orientation for Newly Employed Staff, Emphasises Professionalism and Workplace Excellence
The Centre for Counselling and Career Development (CCCD), on June 4, 2026, organised a one-day orientation workshop for newly employed and captured staff at the University Auditorium. The workshop, themed “Being Your Best for the Best Work Outcomes,” was designed to familiarise participants with the University’s work culture, expectations, and professional standards.
In his welcome address, the Director of the Centre, stated that the orientation was aimed at helping newly employed staff integrate effectively into the University’s academic and social environment. He noted that the programme aligns with the vision of the Vice-Chancellor, to position the University as a leading institution where productivity, excellence, and job satisfaction thrive.
Prof. Obi-Nwosu also highlighted the various services provided by the Centre, including career coaching and mentoring, guidance and counselling, psychological services, leadership development, and workplace harmony initiatives.
Representing the Vice-Chancellor, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), commended the CCCD for organising the orientation programme. He described the workshop as timely and essential in helping newly employed staff understand the University’s expectations, values, and operational procedures.
He urged participants to approach their duties with dedication, integrity, and professionalism, stressing that their contributions would play a vital role in advancing the University’s vision of excellence in teaching, research, and community service. Prof. Asigbo further encouraged staff to maximise the knowledge and experience shared during the workshop to enhance their effectiveness and productivity within the University system.
Delivering a presentation titled “Academic Responsibility and Sanctions for Academic Misconduct,” Prof. Asigbo cautioned staff to exercise care in their interactions and professional conduct. He warned against academic offences such as plagiarism and piracy, describing them as serious misconduct capable of attracting severe disciplinary sanctions. He also advised staff to avoid physical confrontations with students and instead report incidents of unruly behaviour to the University’s safety department.
Prof. Asigbo further emphasised the University’s zero-tolerance stance on harassment, particularly sexual harassment, and encouraged both staff and students to report such cases whenever they occur.
Speaking on “University Work Culture and Professional Development,” the Registrar, Dr. Chinenye Gloria Okeke commended the CCCD for organising the orientation and selecting thought-provoking topics capable of inspiring diligence and professionalism among staff. She expressed confidence that the programme would contribute to building a more effective workforce capable of setting standards for excellence within the University system.
Dr. Okeke urged participants to familiarise themselves with the University’s vision and work towards achieving it through commitment to teaching, research, and community service. According to her, every staff member contributes to the institution’s reputation through their conduct, competence, and dedication.
She identified integrity, discipline, respect, transparency, teamwork, and excellence as core values expected of staff and stressed the importance of confidentiality in handling official information and documents.
The Registrar further advised staff to acquaint themselves with important institutional documents, including the University’s Conditions of Service, Standing Orders of the Governing Council, and relevant University regulations, noting that ignorance of established rules would not excuse misconduct. She also encouraged adherence to official communication channels and proper correspondence procedures, emphasising that effective communication promotes efficiency, teamwork, and conflict resolution.
Addressing bursary and accounting personnel, Deputy Bursar (Student Accounts), Mr. Alex Anene reminded staff that they would be entrusted with sensitive financial documents and would operate under close supervision. He advised them to study and understand assigned documents thoroughly before taking action and to discharge their duties with diligence and professionalism.
Mr. Anene also cautioned against divulging confidential financial information and encouraged staff to obtain professional certifications such as ICAN and ANAN to enhance their career progression and promotion prospects.
In his presentation on “Communication and Workplace Harmony,” Prof. Harry Obi-Nwosu described communication as the foundation of workplace interactions and organisational effectiveness. He noted that healthy communication facilitates smooth administration and contributes significantly to the realisation of the University’s mission and mantra of discipline, self-reliance, and excellence in teaching, learning, and community service.
He urged participants to cultivate effective communication and listening skills to foster harmonious working relationships and improve productivity within the University community.
The workshop provided participants with valuable insights into professional conduct, institutional expectations, workplace ethics, and effective communication, equipping them for productive and rewarding careers at Nnamdi Azikiwe University.