"In our pursuit of knowledge, we have discovered the power of spirituality in education and its ability to transform lives." This was the thrust of the keynote address delivered at the 2023 Covenant University International Students Week, where international students at Covenant University showcased the diversity that has come to be at the nation’s best private university.
Delivering an address during the weekly Chapel Service, Theophilus Nang Wakai, from the Republic of Cameroon, said they anticipated challenges such as language barriers and cultural differences when coming to study in Nigeria but were determined to make the most of the opportunity by immersing themselves in the new culture and contributing their quota to the vision of raising a new generation of leaders.
Wakai, an M.Sc. graduate school student, said their learning has been a rigorous pursuit with a commitment to striving for excellence in every field of learning. According to him, "By bringing diverse perspectives to the classroom, we have enriched discussions and broadened horizons. Moreover, we have formed lifelong friendships and cultivated a global sense of community within the university."
Wakai said they have experienced firsthand the beauty of unity in diversity, as each one has come to appreciate the richness that comes from embracing different cultures, traditions, and ideas. He noted that through collaboration with their Nigerian counterparts, they have witnessed the strength that lies in working together, fostering mutual understanding and respect. "Our presence here demonstrates the power of inclusivity and the belief that education knows no boundaries," he added.
In his remark, the President of the Covenant University International Students Association, Lumbani Bondera Nyirenda from Malawi, said the 2023 International Students' Week Celebration was an alluring experience. According to him, international students at Covenant have felt the genuine support of the entire University community in spurring them towards achieving their dreams and aspirations at the university.
He appreciated the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Abiodun H. Adebayo, and the Acting Registrar, Mrs. Regina Tobi-David, for gracing this year's International Students Country Fair Exhibition, and the entire University Management, Director International Office, Engr. Isaac Akinwunmi; Dean Student Affairs, Mrs. Shola Coker; and every other stakeholder that contributed to the success of this year's celebrations right from the planning phase to execution.
"We are greatly honoured to be allowed to interact and share our cultural diversity with everyone in Hebron. Covenant University is our home, and we will remain ever grateful for the warm embrace," he enthused. Many thanks once again, and may the good name of the Lord be praised now and evermore. Amen.
The weeklong celebration witnessed a plethora of events, such as chapel service ministration by the international students’ choir, a symposium, a career talk, a country fair exhibition. The Covenant University International students week ended with officials of the University’s International Office and Linkages, Mrs Esther Elomien and Mr. Amos Onah, facilitating an excursion to the Lekki Conservation Centre on Saturday 17th of June, 2023, where the students were treated to the best of nature at the Centre.
.