By Helen Okechukwu, JKNewsMedia Reporter
RIVERS STATE Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving education and healthcare infrastructure while inaugurating two major projects at the 4th convocation ceremony of PAMO University of Medical Sciences (PUMS) on Friday.
The event, held at the university’s auditorium in Iriebe Community, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, marked a significant milestone for the institution.
Governor Fubara commissioned a 500-capacity Gov Siminalayi Fubara Lecture Theatre, and a state-of-the-art Medical Library equipped with e-library facilities.
Speaking at the ceremony, Governor Fubara emphasized that his administration, despite political distractions, remains steadfast in creating opportunities and fostering growth across sectors in Rivers State.
He expressed gratitude for being conferred the Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) in recognition of his contributions to education and development in the state.
The governor lauded the institution’s founder, Dr. Peter Odili, for establishing PUMS, the first private university in Rivers State.
He assured continued collaboration with the institution to enhance healthcare delivery and academic excellence in the state.
Dr. Odili, the Pro-Chancellor and Founder of PUMS, noted that the university has graduated 223 students over the past four years.
At the ceremony, he commended Governor Fubara for granting automatic employment to all 76 graduating students. He urged the graduates to uphold the values of compassion, dignity, and care in their medical practices.
The Chancellor of PUMS, Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar, praised Governor Fubara for expanding the university’s scholarship scheme from 100 to 150 beneficiaries, a move he described as critical to supporting talented students.
Acting Vice Chancellor Prof. Christie Mato highlighted the institution’s recent achievements, including successful accreditation of four faculties by the National Universities Commission (NUC) and other regulatory bodies.
The convocation produced 76 graduates. Among them, three earned First Class Honours, 23 achieved Second Class Honours (Upper Division), 25 received Second Class Honours (Lower Division), and 25 were awarded Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery degrees.
Governor Fubara’s participation and the projects he unveiled underscore his administration’s dedication to advancing education and healthcare in Rivers State.
