By FUW CONNECT News Desk
NatureConnects Tourism Club (NTC), Federal University Wukari, has successfully hosted the maiden edition of CHILL & CONNECT, a student hangout designed to promote relaxation, networking, and meaningful social interaction beyond the classroom.
The event, which took place on Saturday, 18 July 2026, at the Open Field opposite MPH I, in front of the Central Laboratory, attracted 23 students from various departments and academic levels across the University.
The three-hour programme offered students a refreshing break from the demands of academic life through interactive activities, games, networking opportunities, refreshments, and engaging conversations.
Speaking during the event, the President of NatureConnects Tourism Club, Comrade Moses Henriatha Moses, said the programme was created to remind students that university life should not revolve around academics alone.
“Anyone who knows Federal University Wukari understands how demanding school life can be. We wanted to create something financially stress-free where students could relax, make memories, and build connections that would remain valuable even after graduation. With the support of our Convener, Sir Bethel Moseglad, we were able to make this vision a reality.”
She further encouraged participants to see the Club as a platform that complements academic pursuits rather than competing with them.
“Our goal is to build relationships that can last a lifetime while encouraging students to remain committed to academic excellence.”
Founder and Convener of the Club, Sir Bethel Moseglad, explained that CHILL & CONNECT was inspired by the need to help students maintain a healthy balance between academic work and personal well-being.
“Students often become overwhelmed by lectures, assignments, tests, and examinations. We believe that creating opportunities for relaxation, networking, and genuine friendship helps students return to their studies refreshed, motivated, and better prepared to perform.”
One of the highlights of the programme was the Connection Test, where paired participants answered questions about one another to determine how well they knew each other. The competition generated excitement and laughter among participants.
At the end of the contest, Robert Goodness Oche and Wakil Nobweyi Blessing emerged as the Best Connection Pair after correctly answering all five questions.
Reflecting on the experience, the winners described the recognition as memorable and rewarding.
“Our partnership worked because we trusted each other, communicated openly, and paid attention to the little things. Winning was exciting, but the greatest reward was strengthening our friendship.”
The event also featured indoor games including Scrabble, Monopoly, Ludo, and Whot, giving participants additional opportunities to interact outside their usual academic circles.
The Director of Social and Co-Master of Ceremonies, Kumun Terhemba Kenneth, alongside Co-Master of Ceremonies, Able John Ataki, kept participants engaged throughout the programme with lively presentations and coordinated activities.
Vice President Comrade Josephine Audu described the Pairing Game as one of her favourite moments, noting that it allowed participants to know one another beyond casual greetings.
She also commended the organising committee for working together to overcome minor challenges encountered during preparations.
Participants expressed satisfaction with the programme, describing it as “awesome,” “refreshing,” and “worth every moment.” Many said they made new friends, enjoyed the games, and appreciated the opportunity to relax after weeks of academic activities.
Several participants also called for future editions to include more games, larger refreshments, additional prizes, and increased participation from students across the University.
Looking ahead, NatureConnects Tourism Club announced plans to make CHILL & CONNECT a regular student programme while introducing educational tours, recreational competitions, outdoor activities, and stronger collaborations that will further enrich campus life.
As the maiden edition came to a close, one message was evident among participants: CHILL & CONNECT had become more than a social gathering. It had created a platform where friendships were formed, barriers were broken, and students discovered that taking time to relax and connect can be an important part of a successful university experience.
