ANUPA Trains Junior Varsity Administrators, Emphasises Professionalism

The Association of Nigerian University Professional Administrators (ANUPA) has launched a training programme for Junior University Professional Administrators.

The three-day training, which began yesterday in Abuja, aims to enhance their professional skills, instil professionalism, and equip them with the essential tools and knowledge needed to excel in their roles.

Held under the theme, “Understanding the Foundation and Repositioning Our Universities in the New Normal,” the training targeted Admin Officer 2/Executive Cadre Equivalent, Admin Officer 1/Executive Cadre Equivalent, and other participants.

During the training, Mrs Stella Oluwayemisi Soola, Deputy Registrar at the University of Ibadan (UI), addressed the participants, urging them to avoid unethical behaviours such as discrimination, favouritism, bribery, intimidation, neglect, exploitation, selfishness, corruption, sycophancy, mixing politics with business relations, and insults.

She emphasised the importance of respecting all stakeholders and taking responsibility for one’s mistakes.

“Respect is a fundamental aspect of good behavior, both in the workplace and in personal life. Whether interacting with a superior officer or a subordinate, always treat your colleagues with respect.

“Even if you disagree on a personal level, it is crucial to set aside personal feelings while working. When dealing with mistakes, provide constructive feedback and supportive words.

“Taking responsibility for your mistakes, rather than blaming others, is also vital. Mistakes are a normal part of work life; owning up to them demonstrates honesty and commitment to your work.

“As we navigate the complexities of the university environment, let us remember that ethical conduct is not merely a choice but a responsibility. Embracing ethical behaviour in all aspects of our work and interactions fosters trust and confidence among stakeholders and creates a thriving workplace environment,” she added.

Also speaking, Mr Ife Joseph Oluwole, Chairman of the Association of Registrars of Nigerian Universities, emphasised the need for institutional, interdisciplinary research collaborations, private-public partnerships, alumni engagement, and government-academia collaborations to solve problems.

He states, “Universities must embrace digital transformation and a global interconnectedness to be in the vanguard of education and research in the 21st century and remain relevant in the next century.”