The Vice-Chancellor of , Professor Isaac Zeb-Obipi, has inaugurated an RSU Children’s Parliament and a University Student/Pupil Choir as part of efforts to promote inclusion, leadership development and talent discovery among children within the university community.
Professor Zeb-Obipi announced the initiatives during the 2026 Children’s Day celebration held on Wednesday at the Vice-Chancellor’s Lodge in Port Harcourt. He also administered the 2026 Children’s Day Pledge to children drawn from the RSU Staff School, International Secondary School (ISS), the University Women Association Educational Centre and staff children from other schools within the city.
To constitute the leadership of the Children’s Parliament, representatives were nominated from the three schools alongside a representative for staff children from other schools. Anita Ihugba Wome of the International Secondary School emerged as Speaker, while Rejoice Amanyie of the Staff School was elected Deputy Speaker. Abinye Jason of the UWA Educational Centre was selected as Clerk, while Cherish Izeoma of Compass International School became a member representative.
Inaugurating the Parliament, the Vice-Chancellor said the initiative would provide children with a platform to express their views and contribute ideas on issues affecting them within the university community.
He explained that the Parliament was designed to build confidence, leadership skills and active participation among children.
Professor Zeb-Obipi congratulated the newly appointed leaders and announced that they would serve for one year before a new set of officers would be inaugurated during the next Children’s Day celebration. He also approved a grant of N100,000 for the House Leaders and directed the Acting Director of Corporate Affairs to finalize arrangements for the commencement of parliamentary sittings and the provision of regalia.
The Vice-Chancellor also formally announced the commencement of the University Student/Pupil Choir, an initiative previously introduced during the 2026 Easter Hymnal Evening.
According to him, the choir, which will perform at major university events, will comprise students from the Staff School, International Secondary School and the UWA Educational Centre.
He noted that the programme was aimed at nurturing talents in music, arts and creative expression among children of staff and other members of the university community.
Speaking on the theme, “Future Now: Promoting Inclusion for Every Nigerian Child,” Professor Zeb-Obipi described children as the future of the nation and stressed the need to intentionally protect, educate and empower every child regardless of social background or physical ability.
He reaffirmed the university’s commitment to child development through improved access to educational support, libraries, laboratories and ICT facilities during holidays. He also encouraged school administrators to utilize the university’s ICT Innovation Hub for hands-on digital training.
The Vice-Chancellor urged children to dream boldly, embrace learning, practice inclusion and uphold strong moral values. He further commended parents and university staff for their sacrifices in raising responsible families and building a better society.
Professor Zeb-Obipi also appreciated for the implementation of the harmonized minimum wage for university staff, noting that improved welfare would positively influence family stability and child development.
Earlier, President of the Rivers State University Women Association, Dr. Victoria Ayah Zeb-Obipi, described the Children’s Day theme as a call for collective responsibility in protecting, including and empowering every Nigerian child.
She emphasized the importance of quality education, healthcare, moral upbringing and equal opportunities for children irrespective of tribe, religion, disability or economic background. She also urged parents, teachers and stakeholders to work together in raising responsible and morally sound children.
Dr. Zeb-Obipi reaffirmed the association’s commitment to nurturing children who are academically strong, morally disciplined, emotionally stable and globally competitive, adding that investment in children remains essential to national development and social stability.
Delivering a sermon titled “Little Hands in God’s Hand,” Rev. Emmanuel Awortu emphasized love, inclusion and proper guidance for children.
Referencing the biblical account where Jesus welcomed children despite opposition from his disciples, the cleric stated that children should never be seen as distractions.
He stressed that every child is valuable and urged parents, schools, churches and society to create supportive environments that would enable children to thrive. He also cautioned against discrimination and encouraged parents to serve as positive role models in securing a better future for their children.
The event featured the cutting of the Children’s Day cake and performances by children from the participating schools.
