As Staff and Students of McPherson University returned to campus from the Christmas and New Year breaks, ahead of the second semester, activities kicked off seamlessly, with a special Monday morning prayer gathering at the Institution’s chapel.

The event, which attracted both academic and non-academic Staff, marked a spiritual and collective beginning to Year 2025. It was an opportunity for the university community to come together and seek divine guidance for the academic year.

The session was led by the University Chaplain, Rev. Ibiwunmi Alo, who commenced the gathering with heartfelt prayers and worship. The focus was on giving thanks for the safe return of Students and Staff, as well as for journey mercies over the holiday break. The prayer also sought divine blessings for a successful 13th Matriculation and the 8th and 9th combined Convocation Ceremonies, billed for February 26th and 28th consecutively. She also asked Divine Guidance and Wisdom for both the academic and administrative challenges that lay ahead.

Following the prayers, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Francis Igbasan, addressed the gathering with a message of gratitude and motivation. He began by acknowledging the hard work and support that staff had shown throughout the year 2024. His words epitomized the importance of continued commitment as the University is banking on building on the successes recorded in the previous year. He then called for a renewed sense of dedication, stressing that the university community needs to embrace punctuality and discipline in all their endeavors.

Professor Igbasan also took time to address certain concerns regarding Staff performance, especially their attitude to work. He pointed out that two staff members have been identified for tardiness and other issues, signaling that such unethical behavior would no longer be tolerated in the future. He made clear that while salaries are competitive and in line with the university’s financial capacity, further commitment from Staff was expected. “With two queries for any erring member of staff, there would be “no promotion”, while one query would mean “no salary increment” for such Staff in the next academic year” he emphasized.

The Vice Chancellor further charged staff on the importance of a healthy relationship between students and staff, urging staff to foster a more supportive and approachable atmosphere. “Students are our worthy ambassadors,” he remarked, stressing the need for staff to be more disposed to them in both professional and personal interactions. He also cautioned male lecturers against taking undue advantage of female students, emphasizing the importance of professionalism and mutual respect.

Looking ahead, Professor Igbasan reassured the Staff of his administration’s continued priority on welfare. He mentioned that the university aimed to improve staff benefits by over 75%, contingent on enrollment of students. This initiative was seen as crucial to retaining valuable Staff members and ensuring a productive academic environment. As he concluded his remarks, the Vice Chancellor called for peace, harmony, and collaboration within the university community. “If we work together, resounding victory is assured for 2025,” he said, leaving Staff in attendance with a sense of hope and optimism for the fruitful year 2025.