By BANNERNEWS Reporter, Calabar
The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Cross River State chapter, has commended the Vice Chancellor of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), Prof. Francisca Bassey, for what it described as improved attention to student welfare.
The council, led by its State Youth Leader, Comrade Emmanuel Olayi, made the remarks when its delegation paid a courtesy visit to the Vice Chancellor on Wednesday.
The group also called for continued cooperation between youth organisations and the university management to sustain peace and address issues affecting students.
Olayi said the council would not support actions capable of disrupting peace and stability in the university, adding that youths would work with the institution on initiatives promoting responsible participation and student welfare.
The delegation presented Bassey with an award as the Most Youth-Friendly Vice Chancellor, citing her administration’s attention to youth and student-related issues.
Olayi, who disclosed that Bassey was once his lecturer at the University of Calabar, said her commitment to teaching and student development had also reflected in her current role as Vice Chancellor.
He said the council was particularly interested in collaborating with the university to tackle drug abuse among youths and students in the state.
Responding, Bassey thanked the delegation for the visit and award, and reaffirmed her commitment to initiatives that promote student welfare, youth development and responsible citizenship.
She said young people needed quality education, values, opportunities and support to contribute meaningfully to society.
The Vice Chancellor said her leadership philosophy was anchored on the principle, “Build the youth, build the nation,” stressing that investment in young people remained important to the future of the university and the country.
Members of the delegation included the Chairman of the Councillors Forum, Cross River State, Hon. Princess Magdalene Ekpe; Special Adviser to the Governor on Students’ Affairs, Comrade Elvis Enya; Deputy Chairman, Comrade Ngban Basil; Vice Chairman, Central, Comrade Evalsam Ekpe; Vice Chairman, North, Comrade Wonah Patrick; State Publicity Secretary, Comrade Melchizedek Okwe; as well as members of the State Executive Council and local government coordinators.
