The Institute of Management and Technology (IMT), Enugu, has announced the suspension of all examinations following the unfortunate death of Chiamaka Ozoigbondu, a student of Peaceland College, Enugu. The young student tragically lost her life in a road accident on Monday, September 30, 2024, within the IMT campus.
In a heartfelt statement released by the institution, the IMT community expressed deep sympathy to the family and friends of Chiamaka, describing her as a promising young woman whose untimely demise has left many devastated. "Our thoughts and prayers are with her family at this difficult time. We hope never to witness such a tragedy again," the statement read.
Following an emergency meeting held on October 2, 2024, between the school's Management and Academic Board, several resolutions were made to address the situation and prevent future occurrences. These include the suspension of all outstanding examinations and a three-day mourning period, from Wednesday, October 2, to Friday, October 3, 2024, during which both staff and students will honor the memory of Chiamaka Ozoigbondu and reflect on the tragic event.
IMT emphasized its collaboration with security agencies to ensure a thorough investigation, stating, "IMT Management is working closely with law enforcement and the family of the deceased to ensure that justice is done and seen to be done."
In response to the accident, IMT has implemented new campus regulations. One of the most notable is the ban on all forms of celebration after examinations within the campus premises. Students wishing to celebrate must do so outside the institution’s grounds, and any violation of this rule will result in expulsion.
Other key measures include a speed limit of 20 km/h for all vehicles within the campus, the enforcement of a gate "pass" system for students, and a ban on law enforcement officers escorting students into the institution, as their presence has disrupted security operations.
Furthermore, the institution announced that subsequent exams would be conducted under stricter supervision. Students will be required to wear their departmental uniforms and carry identification cards to the examination halls.
In addition to mourning Chiamaka, IMT revealed that two other students were injured during the incident. The institution assured the public that both students are receiving proper medical care.
Moving forward, all students are required to sign a code of conduct, ensuring adherence to good behavior during their stay at the institution.
The Acting Rector of IMT, Dr. Emeka Patrick Ejim, signed the official statement, underscoring the seriousness of these new policies to safeguard the welfare of the entire school community.
As the IMT community grieves the loss of Chiamaka Ozoigbondu, they also pledge to uphold stricter safety standards, aiming to prevent such tragedies from occurring again.
