Obi gave the charge on Monday in Calabar while declaring open a four-day training workshop organized by the Association of Nigerian University Professional Administrators (ANUPA), UNICAL chapter, for staff of the administrative and executive cadre.
The VC told the over 2,000 staff at the workshop that a good attitude to work and punctuality helps to promote the image and capacity of the institution.
She said that her administration was committed to the welfare and training of both academic and non-academic staff, adding that the most hardworking staff would be rewarded accordingly by the end of the year.
“As a staff of UNICAL, I charge you to be responsive, punctual and dedicated to service at all times. I urge you to change your attitude towards work and be committed to learning.
“I am aware that we still have some challenges as regards some basic needs that you require in your different offices, I want to assure you that we will surmount them.
“So many things have changed, the personnel cost is high now, we need adequate funding to help us move this institution forward.
“Under my administration, I will ensure that there is continues training for staff of all cadres with a view to improving your capacity and attitude towards work,” she said.
Speaking earlier, the Chairman of ANUPA, UNICAL branch, Mr. George Igbikikuno, said that the training was organized to maintain the highest standard of professional practice, good conduct, and discipline among members of the association.
He added that the workshop was also organized to promote the free exchange of ideas and good relationships among members of the branch.
He urged the VC to look into the issue of lack of office space for Registry Department staff, adding that most of them were operating without comfortable offices.
Registrar of the institution, Mr. Gabriel Egbe, said that the administrators were better positioned to solving the enormous challenges facing the educational sector due to their exposure and training.
Egbe urged the participants to pay attention to resource persons during the training with a view to get increased knowledge that would sharpen their proficiency.
“To become professional, we must consciously build a career that will make us stand out from the crowd. As administrators, we must strive for excellence; excellence in our character and work life,” he said.