After 35 years, School of Arts and Science Uyo old students celebrate Pioneer Principal at 93
It was a moment of joy and remembrance at Barth Ebong Hall, University of Uyo Annex when hundreds of School of Arts and Science, Uyo Old Students Association (SASOSA) converged, to celebrate the pioneer principal of the school, Chief B. A. Nyong who is 93 years of age.
The celebration held on Friday, March 7, featured public lectures, presentation of goodwill messages and panel discussion. The event also offered an opportunity for the old students of the defunct School of Arts and Science, SAS, to reflect with joy the impact the administration of Chief Nyong had on them.
In his opening remarks, the National Chairman, SASOSA who is also the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Works and Fire Service, Ignatius Ekwere FNMGS, noted that the gathering was converged to pay tribute and celebrate Chief B. A. Nyong whom he described as a man who has dedicated his life to grooming and shaping of minds, inspiring greatness for posterity where the society is uplifted.
Ekefre said that Chief Nyong’s legacy remains a demonstration of his firm commitment to education, his passion for excellence, and his generosity of spirit.
The National Chairman recalled that the guidance, love and mentorship of Chief Nyong shaped them into personalities who are worthy to be reckoned with today.
He added “As we celebrate this milestone birthday with a public lecture, we are reminded of the profound impact he and the other teachers have had on our lives.
“We are forever grateful for the lessons they taught us, the values they instilled in us, and the memories we shared at the defunct School of Arts and Science (SAS) Uyo.
“As old students of the defunct School of Arts and Science (SAS) Uyo, we had the privilege of experiencing firsthand the transformative power of efficient and effective education. Having seen how selfless educators, who gave of themselves tirelessly, can shape young minds, inspire greatness, and leave an indelible mark in the State and beyond. This occasion is intended to cascade the impact of the celebrant to younger generations while challenging education administrators to leave resonating legacies behind them.
“Today, we urge you, our serving principals, teachers and administrators to continue in this noble tradition. We urge you to strive for excellence in all that you do, to be driven by a passion for teaching, and to be guided by a commitment to the well-being and success of your students.
“We encourage you to remember that the impact you have on your students will be felt for generations to come. The lessons you teach, the values you instill, and the memories you create will mold and shape their minds and hearts as they become the leaders, innovators, and managers of tomorrow.
“We therefore charge you to be bold, innovative, and courageous. Take risks, challenge your students, and push them to reach their full potential. You’ll need to be selfless, be generous with your time and expertise, and be willing to go the extra mile for your students. Always remember that the true measure of your success will not be in the grades your students achieve or the accolades they receive, but in the positive impact you have made on their lives to help change and shape our society years after.”
In his Keynote address, Prof. EnoAbasi Urua, Director, School of Basic Studies, Ediene Abak, University of Uyo, described Chief Nyong as a disciplinarian who administrative style has influenced her life.
Prof. Urua who spoke on, “Chief B. A. Nyong, The Man and Vision: School of Arts and Science (SAS) Uyo in Respect”, revealed that the Pioneer principal of the school, managed SAS for 14 years, adding that Chief Nyong was a visionary and intentional administrator.
Prof. Antiaobong Ekong who spoke on “Leadership in an Educational Institution: The Chief B. A. Nyong’s Model”, commented on the importance of school administrators to be properly trained, certified, and demonstrate empathy while dealing with students.
He said “You cannot be an excellent administrator without having appropriate certifications in that field.”
The academic Don warned against appointing people into positions as political compensation.
On his part, Pastor Godwin Ukwat who spoke on “Impacting Generations:The School of Arts and Science (SAS) Uyo Example”, cautioned secondary school students against negative peer pressure.
Also speaking, Mr. Emmanuel Asanga, a retired Permanent Secretary who once served Chief Nyong as Secretary, narrated the impact of the man on his entire life. He also spoke on “School of Arts and Science (SAS) Uyo; A lost Treasure”.
Responding, the celebrator, Chief Nyong, described School of Arts and Science Uyo as a child of circumstance whose impact still resonates.
He recalled how the school was established and thanked the old students of SAS for putting up an event of high standard.
The Akwa Ibom State NLC Chairman, Comrade Sunny James, in his goodwill message, commended the old students of SAS, but expressed worry on the standard of education in the country and why most teachers are not leaving any legacy behind.
Another goodwill message was presented by the representative of Science Teachers Association of Nigeria, STAN, Akwa Ibom State, Akparawa Michael Effiong , Fellow of STAN.
The highlight of the ceremony was the cutting of cake by Chief Nyong and dance presentation by one of the participating secondary schools.
The event had in attendance dignitaries and secondary school students from other schools who used the opportunity to interact with discussants.