Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has expressed concern over the moral decline at Imo State University (IMSU), urging the institution’s governing board to implement effective measures to address its challenges.
During a meeting with the university’s governing board at the government house in Owerri on Tuesday, the governor decried the prevalence of corruption and a lack of staff commitment within IMSU.
He insisted on the need for change, stating, “What is very endemic is corruption and lack of staff commitment.”
He also criticized the flawed admission process, highlighting cases where students struggle to complete their studies within four years.
He called for a thorough review to ensure a more structured admission system.
Governor Uzodimma tasked the board with creating a strategic plan to attract investment to the university while tackling moral issues by prioritizing student welfare.
He assured them of his administration’s support, emphasizing that incentives for staff would be provided if the institution created a favorable environment for investors.
“I can even allow you to fix your salary, but there must be money. It is not charity,” he remarked.
He stressed the importance of Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) in improving IMSU’s financial standing and called for the automation of student enrollment records and staff payroll to enhance transparency and efficiency.
Additionally, he urged the board to conduct a comprehensive needs assessment to determine the university’s operational costs and revenue potential, ensuring financial stability.
Comparing the situation to a medical diagnosis, he advised the board to identify key problems before implementing solutions.
Speaking earlier, the chairman of the IMSU board, Philip Ogbonna, expressed gratitude for the appointment and briefed the governor on the board’s progress since January 2025.
He outlined key findings, including the need for a system overhaul, accreditation of the Colleges of Medicine and Engineering, staff promotions, welfare improvements, and new employment opportunities.
Mr. Ogbonna also sought the governor’s support in digitalizing the university, tackling corruption, and enhancing students’ digital skills to improve their job prospects.
The vice-chancellor of IMSU, Uche Chukwumaeze, was present at the meeting alongside other principal officers of the university.
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