From Neglect to Excellence: The transformation story of Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic (Abia polytechnic
By Miracle Chukwunenye
Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic, formerly Abia State Polytechnic, is not exempted from the massive transformation being witnessed in every sector of the state. Governor Otti's commitment to the education sector extends beyond secondary and basic education, as evident in most state-owned tertiary institutions, including Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic, which has witnessed tremendous growth and development within just 11months of change in its leadership.
Thanks to the visionary guidance of Hon. Stanley Egege, Chairman of the Governing Council, and the astounding leadership of Engr. Dr. Christopher Kalu Okoro, the school rector, the duo has implemented the new Abia mantra in the state owned institution. The institution which was once a shadow of its former self, evidence of the inglorious years of the PDP maladministration, has indeed been transformed from dust to gold. Under the New Abia administration, the polytechnic has witnessed significant improvements in infrastructure and facilities. Most of the school buildings that were left moribund and in a decrěpit state have been rehabilitated and modernized for effective use. Some buildings that had been left unfinished for decades due to neglect by past administrations have been completed and put to use.
Notably, these laudable achievements were witnessed in the school within a space of 11 months, defeating the minus zero state it was left in, attributed to the past administration's heinøus years of dormancy and abandonment.
A state-of-the-art sports complex, studio house, gym, and indoor games facilities have been established in the school, providing students with a well-rounded educational experience. The polytechnic has also taken a significant leap into the digital age with the introduction of online certification, enabling graduates to verify their credentials easily and making it simpler for employers and educational institutions to authenticate their qualifications. Furthermore, the engineering and welding/fabrication department has undergone rehabilitation, and students are now fabricating chairs used in the school. This hands-on approach to learning equips students with practical skills and fosters innovation and creativity.
The rapid transformation of Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic is indeed all encompassing, from the modernized entrance gate to the conducive learning environment, also the re-electrification of the school, provision of street lights,installment of calssroom gadgets like ceiling fans, and rewiring of some classes for students' safety. The tiling of all classroom blocks has also given them a fresh new look. Governor Alex Otti's transformative leadership has indeed brought about an all around transformation, leaving a trail of development in every sector.
Today, Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic has keyed into this transformative leadership, with Hon. Stanley Egege as Chairman of the Governing Council and Engr. Christopher Kalu Okoro as the School rector, forming a dynamic duo that will propel the polytechnic toward even more remarkable transformations in the near future.
Miracle Chukwunenye
March 3, 2025.