By Nneka Nwogwugwu
Former President of Nigeria, Dr Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, has been appointed the 3rd Chancellor of a leading private Ugandian University, Cavendish University.
The appointment which took effect from April 27, 2021, means Jonathan now replaces Benjamin Mkapa (former President of the United Republic of Tanzania, the late 2nd Chancellor, and the late Dr Kenneth Kaunda (former President of the Republic of Zambia, 1st Chancellor).
Dr Jonathan is expected to be installed on August 26, 2021 in time to preside over the conferment of Degrees and award of Diplomas and Certificates at the University’s 10th Graduation Ceremony that will take place at Munyonyo Commonwealth Resort on the same date.
Prof Olubayi Olubayi, the Chairman of the University Council of Cavendish University Uganda said, “The new Chancellor was appointed following a rigorous search among eminent African leaders distinguished for their ingenuity and commitment to the promotion of Education and Social Development in Africa, and following the recommendation of the University’s Advisory Council”.
Dr Goodluck Jonathan who holds a PhD in Zoology from the University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria, has previously served as Governor of Bayelsa State, Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and in 2010 became the 14th President of Nigeria.
He is also a strong believer in quality education, as he is quoted saying, “If we do not spend billions educating our youth today, we will spend it fighting insecurity tomorrow. And you do not have to spend on education just because of insecurity. It is also the prudent thing to do”.
“The entire fraternity of Cavendish University Uganda is very pleased and honoured that such a respected and distinguished achiever has agreed to provide us with leadership, following in the footsteps of other distinguished African leaders that have occupied the same position before. We look forward to his wise counsel in supporting the university to achieve its new mission of transforming and inspiring students to reach their full potential in employment, entrepreneurship and ethical leadership,” Prof John Mugisha, the University Vice Chancellor said.
