Godfrey Okoye University Enugu officially began the 2025/2026 academic session with a spiritual retreat and capacity-building workshops for staff, aimed at deepening commitment to service, professionalism, and holistic growth.

Speaking during the retreat, the Superior General of Opus Dei, Rev. Fr. Dr. Anthony Odoh reminded participants that “a university is a place for dialogue and demonstration of competence in service.” He cautioned against the gap between people’s behaviour in the church and in society, stressing that God judges by daily actions. He urged staff to see their duties as a path to holiness while avoiding quarrels and gossip, which slowed down progress.

In her vote of thanks, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academics), Sr. Prof. Marysylvia Nwachukwu expressed gratitude to Fr. Odoh for his sacrifices and encouraged staff to see holiness not only as prayer and chapel presence but also as faithfully doing the will of God in their daily tasks.

The retreat was followed by workshops designed to strengthen both academic and administrative staff.

During her lecture on “Essential Management and Supervising Skills and Effective Relationships with Staff and Students,” the University Librarian, Assoc. Prof. Mrs. Juliana Iwu-James emphasized balance in all activities. She encouraged academic staff to cultivate time management, avoid procrastination, prioritize tasks, and embrace healthy living practices such as rest, exercise, and regular check-ups. She also highlighted the importance of communication, noting that “ultimate communication is shared understanding that leads to effective action.”

In his vote of thanks, Prof. Boniface Okere described the lecture as a roadmap for sustaining quality at GOUNI, praising the Librarian for setting a high standard.

At the administrative staff workshop, the Registrar, Dr. Mrs. Peace Ike described administrators as the “engine room” of the university. She called for continuous dedication, skill upgrades, creativity, and effective communication to ensure the smooth running of the institution.

Also addressing the staff, the Senior Assistant Registrar, Mr. Jerry Asiegbu spoke on Discipline, Code of Conduct, and Dress Code. He emphasized punctuality, confidentiality, honesty, courtesy, and respect in service delivery while warning against harassment or intimidation of students and colleagues.

The Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Sergius Udeh commended the speakers for a well-organized retreat and urged staff to continue to demonstrate professionalism in their various roles.

The retreat and workshops not only set the spiritual and professional tone for the new academic session but also reinforced GOUNI’s commitment to excellence, discipline, and service.