By Deborah Uzoma
The Naze born writer, scholar and critic, Dr JoeKen Kelechi Nzerem , was last month , October, 2022 , appointed as the new Head of the Department of English & Literary Studies , Imo State University.
Dr Nzerem started his lecturing job in 2003 as an Assistant Lecturer in English & Literary Studies Department. He has remained an astute pedagogue and also, he is a pioneer student of
the Department , class of 1997.
He bagged his Masters Degree at Imo State University while his Doctorate was obtained at the University of Port-Harcourt,Choba.
His research interest include: Psycholinguistics, Applied Linguistics, Public Speaking and very much interested in Shakespearean studies. He has published numerous academic essays and articles in journals of repute , locally and internationally.
Speaking to campus journalists on the resumption of his new office last week, Dr Nzerem stated he was elated at the news of his appointment, which he described was “a fair judgment.” He promised to continue from where the previous Heads’ stopped, to work in synergy with his colleagues in order to promote quality research, teaching and learning in the department.
Dr Nzerem revealed that his drive for academic excellence is paramount. He ensured that the students would be tasked the more , for them to know their pre-occupations as a University student . He disclosed that he would restore the academic conferences that the Department had when Prof. Isidore Diala was the Head of Department.
He assured that the students will enjoy new academic height and participate in essay competitions ; one of which he revealed that his undergraduate set , class of 1997 , is about to organize for the department and numerous others in view.
Furthermore, the new English Head eulogized the Vice Chancellor , Professor Ugonna Chukwumaeze(SAN), for his great strides on campus since assumption of office and most importantly , championing academic excellence.
“The VC believes in fair judgement and he is held bent to fight academic corruption in the university community,”Dr Nzerem added.
