Ritman University has held her 2017 Student Leadership Team (SLT) election debate with all positions except Director of Socials uncontested. Aspirants promised to increase student engagement in beneficial activities while presenting their manifestoes on 5th December, 2017 at the campus in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State. Vice Chancellor of Ritman University, Prof Celestine Ntuen, said that through SLT (an equivalent of Student Union Government), Management wanted to prepare students for leadership beyond academic success. He remarked that leadership qualities needed for the future are learnt through agents of socialization such as the SLT, hence, leading students were to be of good character. The VC emphasized a need for morals and good behaviour, urging students to impeach any leader that fails the character test.
Acting Dean of Student Affairs, Mrs. Rita Umoh, noted that Ritman University recognizes a need for students to organize themselves in a democratic manner. She described the SLT as a medium by which collective desires of students get communicated to Management for better service delivery. She stated the eligibility criteria to include a 3.0 GPA for presidential and vice presidential aspirants and 2.5 for other positions, in addition to a clean record devoid of cultic affiliations. Emmanuel Ndiok who was the only contestant for presidency promised to bring leadership, commitment and creativity to bear on his job. He declared his belief in RU’s potentials and declared that through collaboration, he will consolidate on progress the university is making. Ndiok – a student of History and International Studies – also promised to work towards quicker release of examination results, better campus accommodation and more conducive learning environment. Pearl Abasita of the Accounting Department, who vied for the post of Vice President, said she would be accessible to everyone, help maintain good sanitary condition and encourage regular fumigation of hostels. Other aspirants included Enwongo-Abasi Umoren – who studies Chemical Science – for Secretary; Udeme Effiong (studying Management) for Financial Secretary; and Melody Dodoh Baridule of Personnel Management Department for Treasurer. Divine Jacob Ottong who studies Biological Sciences went for PRO; Precious Barikuula Gbiu of Sociology Department was interested in becoming Director of Sports and Stephanie Mbachu vied for the post of IJMB Students Representative. The only position in contention was Director of Socials between Livinus Baloga and Donald Kelvin, both of the Sociology department. Other aspirants were unopposed.
Edidiong Esara 05/12/17
