"I HAVE NEVER HELD A FORMAL ADMINISTRATIVE POSITION BEFORE IN THE UNIVERSITY" : AN INTERVIEW WITH THE NAPS PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE.

By Faith Ajewole

Interviewer: Can you please introduce yourself ma?

Ebere: My name is Eberechukwu Kalu and I’m a 300 level student of psychology.

Interviewer: In respect to the upcoming elections, can you intimate us about the position you're vying for, and what motivated you to take such an initiative

Ebere: I’m vying for the position of President because I believe leadership is about building people, not just running systems. My motivation comes from a deep desire to build a true community. One where every student feels seen, valued, and connected. Over time, I’ve noticed that many of us want more than academic excellence; we want belonging, collaboration, and growth; a family within the department that genuinely supports one another.

Interviewer: Apart from what is stated here. What are your visions for NAPS Organisation, if finally elected? To add to that, are there  inadequacies or loopholes that you have noticed in the present administration and how do you hope to remedy these or fill the gaps you've observed ?

Ebere: Beyond what I’ve shared, my vision for NAPS is to see it become a vibrant, united, and purpose-driven community. One that empowers psychology students to grow in leadership, service, and excellence. I want every student to feel seen, involved, and proud to be part of something meaningful. While the present administration has been amazing, continuing what other leaders started, I’ve observed some gaps in communication, inclusion, student involvement. If elected, I plan to bridge those gaps by improving transparency, creating systems and and involving more students in planning and execution. My goal is simple; to build a NAPS that reflects unity, purpose, and progress, where every psychology student truly belongs.

Interviewer: Judging from what you've said, one major thing your administration will be dealing with or tackling is communication. Can you briefly run us through the practical steps you intend to take to bring this goal home or to realization?

Ebere: First, I’ll introduce “NAPS Connect” , a monthly update meeting that keeps every student informed about upcoming events, projects, and opportunities and also the needs of each student in the department based on their connect groups.  It’ll help us stay connected as one family.

I’ll also work on strengthening collaboration between executives, class reps, and committees, so that information flows both ways from leadership to students and back.

Interviewer: If elected, you'll be accountable for the department's progress and reputation. It rests heavily on your shoulders. What specific skills, experiences, or qualities do you bring to the table that will enable you to drive the department forward and elevate its standing?

Do you think you are up to the job?

Ebere: Yes, I believe I’m up to the job. Not because I have all the answers, but because I’m willing to learn, serve, and lead with sincerity. What I bring to the table are strong community; which is my mantra, organizational skills, a genuine heart for people, and the ability to bring others together around a shared vision.

Through my previous roles and teamwork experiences, I’ve learned how to listen, delegate, and follow through, skills that are vital for leadership. I’m someone who values structure and excellence, but also compassion and collaboration.

Interviewer: Can you share specific examples of your hands-on skills or leadership experiences that demonstrate your ability to drive these results you've  stated above?

And if not, what do you think Napsites can hold onto as evidence that you can lead them well?

Ebere: Yes, I’ve had the opportunity to lead projects and teams both in school and in work environments, and those experiences have really shaped the kind of leader I’ve become.

In school, I’ve coordinated group tasks and faculty activities where I learned the importance of clear communication, planning, and carrying everyone along to reach a common goal. In work settings, I’ve led projects that required organization, accountability, and adaptability, especially when things didn’t go as planned.

Interviewer: So you mean apart from group works you don't have any history of service in an administrative office or position, prior to now?

Ebere: That’s a fair question; and no, I haven’t held a formal administrative position in the university before now. But leadership, to me, has never been limited to titles. I’ve led projects, teams, and initiatives that required the same level of responsibility, communication, and accountability that any office would demand.

Those experiences taught me how to coordinate people, manage tasks, and see things through to completion, even without a title attached. And I believe that’s what true leadership is about. Not waiting for a position to serve, but serving wherever you are.

Interviewer: Is there going to be any provision for synergy with other departments, in your intended administration and how do you hope to represent NAPS externally, and promote our interests?

Ebere: Yes, I strongly believe in synergy with other departments because no association grows in isolation. However, this is something that will be decided collectively by the executive team, to ensure that every collaboration aligns with our goals and values.

When it comes to representing NAPS externally, my goal is to do so with excellence, humility, and integrity. This means carrying the image of the department with dignity, ensuring that psychology students are not just present but truly represented wherever it matters, within the university and beyond. I also hope to build valuable connections and collaborations that will create real opportunities for our members; whether in academics, research, or professional growth.

Interviewer: If you are to sum up the theme or what NAPSITES should expect of your upcoming tenure, if elected as President, in just one word,

What will that word be?

Ebere: Community.