AUST Celebrates International Men’s Day with Insightful Panel Discussion on Emotional Intelligence and Mental Well-being

Abuja, Nigeria – June 30, 2025 – The African University of Science and Technology (AUST) marked this year’s Men’s Day with a powerful and thought-provoking event organized by the university’s Gender Committee, under the leadership of  Dr. Odette Anye.

The gathering brought together faculty, staff, and students to engage in open discussions on emotional intelligence, mental health, and the evolving roles of men in society.

Dr. Bello Abdulhakeem,  Director, Academic planning, AUST, delivered the opening address on behalf of the university’s President who as at that time was not around.

He remarked that the  Men’s Day is an opportunity to address the unique challenges faced by men and to promote conversations around mental wellness, responsible masculinity, and emotional expression.

The focal point of the event was a dynamic panel discussion featuring six distinguished speakers:

Dr. Oluwashola M. Okpodu, AUST Faculty; Dr. Vitalis Anye, Acting Dean, School of Engineering; Dr. Muhammed Abubakar Haruna, Head of Department,Accounting; Mr. Ben Okonkwo – Bursar/ Finance Director, AUST and Dr. Bosco Okolo-Obi, Head of Department, General Studies, AUST.

One of the panelists, Dr. Shola Okpodu, x-rayed what emotional intelligence is all about and provided clear cut significance of theme ideas discussion.

He underscored the value of self-awareness, empathy, and emotional regulation—skills often overlooked in men due to societal expectations of restraints.

In his  contribution, Mr. Ben Okonkwo reminded  the audience that emotional expression is not a sign of weakness but that of strength.

According to him "It is okay for a man to cry though not always in public because that release is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Men, Mr. Okonkwo reiterated must learn to communicate more and stop bottling things up.

The panelists collectively stressed on the importance of raising emotionally intelligent boys, supporting mental well-being, and fostering ambient environment where men can feel free and safe to express themselves.

They highlighted the role of parents in modeling and encouraging emotional openness from childhood.

The event concluded with a special appearance and closing remarks by Prof. Peter Azikiwe Onwualu, FAS, President of AUST.

He commended the Gender Committee for hosting such a timely and impactful discussion, and celebrated the university’s recent Innovation Award, which he described as a testament to AUST’s ongoing commitment to excellence.

“This event reminds us of why we are here — to grow, innovate, and support each other,” Prof. Onwualu said.

He also addressed societal norms around masculinity, noting that changing times require a shift in cultural attitudes:

“Sometimes, the silence of men is shaped by how society  and even women respond to their vulnerability. But times are changing, and so should we.”

The AUST Men’s Day celebration served not only as a platform for dialogue but as a call to action for communities to nurture a new generation of men who are emotionally aware, mentally resilient, and strong enough to seek support when needed.