Why I appointed 50 aides — UNICAL’s first female SUG president Blessing Alims

UNICAL first female SUG president Blessing Alims

The first female president of the student union government (SUG) at the University of Calabar (UNICAL) Blessing Alims has said she appointed 50 aides for effective governance.

The student of political science has been in the news since her election on June 14.

Her appointment of 50 aides announced in a letter dated August 1 got her more attention.

In a statement by her spokesperson, Madueke Chinenye, the SUG president said the aides would help make catering for over 42,000 students from 20 faculties and over 110 departments of the varsity less burdensome.

“The student union government is tasked with ensuring the welfare and progress of our entire university community,” she said.

“Just as a single tree does not make a forest. Effective governance for a student body of over 42,000 requires a collaborative effort. It is essential to have a strong and diverse team to implement our initiatives successfully.

“With over 20 faculties and over 110 departments, the University of Calabar is a complex institution.

“Appointing aides ensures representation from each faculty and department, which is crucial for effective student mobilisation and governance. This approach allows us to address the unique needs of each segment of our student population.”

Alims, who majors in peace studies and conflict resolution, said there are no financial rewards to the appointments.

UNICAL is currently managed by a female Professor Florence Obi. In 2020, Prof Obi of the Faculty of Education emerged the first female vice-chancellor of the university.