Doris Ewoh, Enugu
The Rector of the Institute of Management and Technology (IMT), Professor Gozie S. Ogbodo, has outlined key achievements of his administration and unveiled a reform agenda aimed at repositioning the institution for greater impact ahead of the institution’s 43rd–50th Convocation Ceremony.
He made this known during a press conference held on Monday, February 16, 2026, at the institution’s Council Chamber, outlining his leadership focus on institutional stability, transparency, and inclusive governance since assuming office.
Speaking at the briefing, Prof. Ogbodo noted that internal administrative processes have been strengthened, accountability mechanisms enhanced, and teamwork fostered among staff and management.
As part of efforts to modernize academic delivery, the rector disclosed that the institution has reviewed its curriculum, strengthened entrepreneurship education, and advanced digital learning systems with increased ICT integration in teaching and administration.
Ogbodo also announced a partnership with Cross River State University for a one-year Top-Up Degree Programme that will enable Higher National Diploma (HND) holders to obtain a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) degree.
“We have concluded arrangements to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with Cross River State University to commence a Top-Up Degree Programme for HND holders. This will bridge the long-standing gap between HND and B.Sc. qualifications and open up broader academic and professional opportunities for our graduates,” he said.
He further revealed that IMT has attracted significant local and international investment, including a ₦12.95 billion strategic partnership with Arone Technology to establish what he described as Nigeria’s first world-class tech manufacturing plant.
He also introduced the One Diploma, One Skill initiative, designed to ensure that graduates are industry-ready and globally competitive.
Speaking on the Art, Science, and Technology Exhibition held shortly after the briefing, Ogbodo said the displays reflected the institution’s multidisciplinary strength and practical orientation.
“Today’s exhibition showcases practical solutions, research outputs, technological prototypes, and artistic expressions that demonstrate the creative ingenuity and technical competence of our students and staff,” he said, adding that the exhibition underscored IMT’s mandate as a leading technological institution.
The rector disclosed that new academic units, including a Diploma in Law, the Department of Cybersecurity, and the Department of Taxation, have been established to expand the institution’s academic offerings. He expressed optimism that these additions, alongside ongoing infrastructural development, would boost student enrolment.
On the forthcoming combined 43rd–50th Convocation Ceremony, last held eight years ago, Ogbodo said the event will cover graduates from 2018 to 2025, with a total of 27,848 graduands expected to be awarded diplomas. He added that distinguished Nigerians who have contributed to national development will also be honoured.
According to him, the combined ceremony is intended to clear the backlog of convocations before the institution resumes its annual convocation schedule.
The week-long activities will culminate in the convocation ceremony on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at the International Conference Centre, IMT, Enugu.
Breakdown of Activities for the 43rd–50th Convocation Ceremony Week
Monday – 16/2/2026
Activity: International Press Conference (Management and Ceremonial Committee Members); Convocation Exhibition
Venue: Council Chamber/International Conference Centre
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Tuesday – 17/2/2026
Activity: Sports – Jogging, Football, Volleyball, Sack/Spoon Race, etc. (All staff and students are to appear in sportswear.)
Venue: IMT Football Pitch
Time: 8:00 a.m.
Wednesday – 18/2/2026
Activity: NYSC Pre-Mobilization Workshop/IT (for ND II & HND II students) and Movie by ENIF
Venue: International Conference Centre, IMT Enugu
Time: 9:00 a.m.
Thursday – 19/2/2026
Activity: Convocation Awareness and Culture Day (Staff and Students)
Venue: International Conference Centre, IMT Enugu
Time: 9:00 a.m.
Friday – 20/2/2026
Activity: Convocation Lecture/New IMT Initiative (All staff and students)
Venue: International Conference Centre, Enugu
Time: 9:00 a.m.
Saturday – 21/2/2026
Activity: Convocation Day
Venue: International Conference Centre, Enugu
Time: 9:00 a.m.
Sunday – 22/2/2026
Activity: Thanksgiving Service
Venue: Wesley Methodist Church Cathedral, Uwani
Time: 9:00 a.m.