Federal Poly Oko School of Financial Studies holds 3rd hybrid international conference, honours rector and distinguished personalities
The Rector of Federal Polytechnic Oko, Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie, has been conferred with the Distinguished Platinum Leadership Award in recognition of her outstanding leadership qualities, visionary direction, and unwavering commitment to academic excellence and institutional transformation.
The honour was bestowed on her on Thursday, October 16, during the 3rd Hybrid International Conference of the School of Financial Studies, held at the Polytechnic Auditorium, Extension Site, Oko.
Other notable awardees included the former Acting Chairman of the Polytechnic’s Governing Council, 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.
Declaring the conference open, Dr. Awuzie commended the Dean of the School of Financial Studies, Dr. Nkechi Aroh, and the entire faculty for their consistency in promoting scholarship and for sustaining the annual conference as a vital platform for academic dialogue and innovation.
She noted that the School’s intellectual contributions not only enhance the image of Federal Polytechnic Oko but also enrich national and global economic discussions.
Speaking on the conference theme, “The Impact of the New Economy on Accounting and Finance Business,” the Rector described it as timely and relevant, stressing that the “new economy” represents the rapidly evolving digital landscape shaped by technological advancement, artificial intelligence, fintech innovations, and data-driven entrepreneurship.
According to her, “This transformation is redefining how businesses operate, how financial data is managed, and how accounting and finance professionals must adapt to remain relevant. It calls for new skills, strong ethical standards, and innovative approaches to sustain transparency and trust in a digital-driven world.”
One of the lead paper presenters and Deputy Rector (Administration), Dr. Kenneth Ezekwe, observed that the “new economy” marks a fundamental shift from the traditional, industrial model to a digital and service-oriented economy driven by technology and globalization—one that is enhancing productivity and spurring economic growth.
In his remarks, Chairman of the occasion, Comrade Chibuzo Asomugha, lauded the organizers for their foresight, noting that Federal Polytechnic Oko is already aligning with global trends by digitizing its institutional operations in line with the demands of the new economy.
Earlier in her welcome address, Dr. Nkechi Aroh highlighted that the conference provides a unique opportunity for scholars, professionals, and policymakers to exchange ideas, conduct research, and generate discussions that can shape the future of finance and accounting education. She expressed appreciation to all speakers, participants, and sponsors for their contributions to the success of the event.
The keynote address was delivered virtually by Prof. Tapas Mishra from the University of Southampton, United Kingdom, while other lead paper presenters included Prof. Amit Kumar Dwivedi, a Professor of Entrepreneurship from India; Prof. Hari Shyam, a Professor of Digital Marketing and Business Analytics from India; and Dr. Kenneth Ezekwe of Federal Polytechnic Oko.
The two-day conference brought together academics, industry experts, and students to explore how innovation and technology continue to redefine the financial landscape in Nigeria and across the globe.