Essien joins maiden ICLM/APU executive doctorate graduands

Ini Billie, Uyo

The Chairman of the Institute of Chartered Mediators and Conciliators (ICMC), Akwa Ibom State Chapter, Dr Rosalyn Essien, has earned an Executive Professional Doctorate Degree in Public Administration and Leadership (DPAL).

Dr Essien, a seasoned public administrator, peace-building scholar and governance professional, was among the pioneer graduands of the Institute of Corporate Leadership and Mentorship (ICLM) and Appleton Private University (APU) awarded the Executive Professional Doctorate Degree.

The conferment ceremony, held in Uyo, was themed “Advancing Leadership Excellence in a Changing World.” Speaking at the event, the Rector of Appleton Private University, UK, Dr José M. M. Castelo, commended the maiden graduands for their courage, vision and commitment to personal and professional growth, describing them as the foundation upon which future cohorts would build.

Castelo noted that the theme reflected current global realities and urged the graduands to positively impact their organisations, communities and society at large.

“The world outside these walls is shifting rapidly. It demands leaders who are not only skilled but who possess the wisdom to navigate complexity with integrity. Your journey to this Executive Doctorate proves that you are those leaders,” he said.

In his address, the Executive Director of ICLM, Evangelist Ezekiel Efiok, described the convocation as a convergence of global academic integrity and local leadership relevance.

Efiok said the Executive Professional Doctorate was more than an academic credential, describing it as a badge of responsibility and a call to influence governance, enterprise, ministry and national development.

He urged the graduands to deploy their knowledge and training to reform systems and uplift society.

“Distinguished Doctors, the world today needs more than educated individuals; it needs wise leaders, ethical professionals and servant-hearted influencers,” he said.

“Let your leadership be marked by excellence without compromise, authority without arrogance, knowledge without pride, and service without selfish ambition.

“May your doctorate open doors and, more importantly, open minds, reform systems and uplift societies.”