The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Professor Florence Obi, has issued a strong warning to newly admitted students against engaging in anti-social behaviors that could destroy their academic future.
Matriculation Ceremony Address
Speaking during the institution's 48th Matriculation Ceremony, Professor Obi addressed the 12,800 fresh students who were formally admitted into the university. She specifically highlighted several destructive practices that students must avoid throughout their academic journey.
The VC identified cultism, drug abuse, examination malpractice, and internet fraud as major threats that could compromise both the students' future and the institution's integrity. She emphasized that UNICAL operates as a center of excellence with clearly defined rules and regulations that all students must follow without exception.
Consequences of Violating University Rules
Professor Obi cautioned that violating the university's regulations would attract serious consequences that could potentially jeopardize their studentship. She stressed the importance of discipline, honesty, hard work, and appropriate conduct as fundamental requirements for success at UNICAL.
"As a center of excellence, knowledge generation and dissemination, the University is governed by rules and regulations that require your discipline, honesty, hard work, and appropriate conduct," the VC stated. "Abide by the University laws because violation attracts serious consequences. You are therefore advised to have a copy of the Student Handbook for guidance."
The Vice-Chancellor reminded the freshmen that the degrees they seek would only be awarded to those found worthy in both character and learning. She encouraged them to take full advantage of the institution's academic resources, including internet facilities, e-library, and laboratories to excel in their studies.
ASUU's Demand for Implementation
In a related development, the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), UNICAL Chapter, has called on the Federal Government to implement the recommendations of the Prof. Nimi Briggs-led committee. Dr. Peter Ubi, the Chairman of ASUU at UNICAL, made this appeal during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria on Friday.
Dr. Ubi expressed disappointment that the government had failed to act on the outcomes of negotiations initiated by the committee. "After ASUU suspended its strike and issued a one-month ultimatum, the government failed to implement any tangible commitment," he revealed.
The union leader criticized the government's proposed 35 percent salary increase, stating that it deviated from the committee's recommendations. He maintained that ASUU's position remains unchanged and that the union stands firmly on the Briggs-led committee agreement.
The Prof. Nimi Briggs-led committee was established to renegotiate the 2009 Federal Government-ASUU Agreement and submitted a draft agreement in 2021 for government approval and signing by both parties.
