The Rector, Federal Polytechnic Oko, Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie has been honoured with award of Distinguished Platinum Leadership in recognition of her exceptional leadership skills, vision and commitment to promoting positive change on the academic excellence of the institution.
Rector bagged this prestigious award on Thursday, October 16 at the Polytechnic Auditorium, extension site, during the 3rd Hybrid International Conference of the School of Financial Studies.
Others recognised include: the former Acting chairman, Governing Council of the Federal Polytechnic Oko, Hon. Omonibeke Kemelayefa, former Acting Rector, Dr. Ubaka Chukwugekwu, former council member, Dr Joseph Chike Aroh, Dr. Mukail Aremu Akinde, Barr. JBC Obikwelu, Dr. Adaobi Ifejiofor and Dr. Uche Chukwudire.
While declaring the conference open, the Rector, Dr. Chioma Awuzie commended the Dean, school of Financial Studies, Dr. Nkechi Aroh and the entire faculty for their commitment to academic excellence and for sustaining the conference as a platform for scholarly dialogue and practical engagement.
She emphasised that the efforts of the School of Financial Studies enhance the reputation of the Federal Polytechnic Oko and also contribute meaningfully to national and global economic discourse.
Speaking on the theme of the conference, “The Impact of the New Economy on Accounting and Finance Business,”, Rector described the theme as apt, adding that it is relevant and thought-provoking.
According to her, “new economy” captures the modern economic environment shaped by rapid technological advancement, digital transformation, artificial intelligence, fintech innovations, and data-driven entrepreneurship. It represents a shift from traditional, resource-based production to one driven by knowledge, information, and technology”
She hinted that the transformation is redefining how businesses operate, how financial data is managed, and how professionals in accounting and finance must adapt to remain relevant, which according to her, demands new skills, ethical standards, and innovative approaches to sustain transparency and trust in an increasingly digital world.
One of the lead paper presenters and Deputy Rector, Administration, Dr. Kenneth Ezekwe noted that new economy in accounting is a shift from the traditional and industrial economy to the digital service and asset-based economy driven by technology and globalization whose impact, he said, increases productivity and economic growth.
Chairman of the occasion, Comrade Chibuzo Asomugha while welcoming the participants expressed delight that the conference focused on the evolving technology, emphasising that Federal Polytechnic Oko is already leveraging on the new economy by digitising all the units of the institution.
Earlier in her welcome address, the Dean School of Financial Studies, Dr. Aroh Nkechi noted that the theme of the conference will give scholars, professionals, and policy makers the opportunity to brainstorm and research more for better presentation that will initiate debate.
She expressed gratitude to the speakers, awardees, participants and sponsors of the conference.
Prof Tapas Mishra from the University of Southampton, UK was the keynote speaker and he made his presentation virtually.
Other lead paper presenters include: Dr. Kenneth Ezekwe, Prof. Amit Kumar Dwivedi, a Prof of Entrepreneurship from India, Prof. Hari Shyam, a Prof of Digital Marketing/ Business Analyst from India.
