Achievers University, Owo, Ondo State, recently held its 18th matriculation ceremony, welcoming 1,133 new students into its fold. The occasion, however, was not solely celebratory. Both the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Omolola Irinoye, and the Pro-Chancellor, Dr. Bode Ayorinde, delivered stern warnings to the incoming students regarding the university’s unwavering stance against indiscipline and social vices. These pronouncements underscored the institution’s commitment to maintaining a high standard of academic integrity and ethical conduct within its community. The new students were explicitly cautioned against engaging in activities that could jeopardize their studentship, emphasizing the seriousness with which the university views these matters.
The university administration articulated a clear list of prohibited behaviors, including cultism, drug abuse, examination malpractice, indecent dressing, sexual harassment, fighting, bullying, and any form of violence. These pronouncements were not mere platitudes; both the Vice Chancellor and the Pro-Chancellor emphasized the severe consequences that await any student found culpable of these offenses. Expulsion, the ultimate sanction, was repeatedly highlighted as the likely outcome for those who disregard the university’s regulations. Furthermore, the administration made it clear that students involved in criminal activities, such as drug abuse and violence, would be handed over to law enforcement authorities for prosecution.
Prof. Irinoye emphasized the importance of academic diligence and adherence to university regulations. She stressed that the university expects its students to prioritize their studies and demonstrate a commitment to personal and professional development. Attendance at lectures was specifically mentioned as a non-negotiable requirement. The Vice Chancellor outlined the university’s stringent attendance policy, stating that students must maintain a 75% attendance rate to avoid severe academic penalties, including automatic course repeats or even repeating the entire academic session. This underscores the institution’s dedication to ensuring that students actively engage with their coursework and maintain satisfactory academic progress.
The Pro-Chancellor, Dr. Ayorinde, echoed the Vice Chancellor’s sentiments, reiterating the university’s zero-tolerance policy towards social vices and indiscipline. He specifically cautioned against violence in any form, including fighting, bullying, and harassment. His firm stance reinforced the message that Achievers University is committed to providing a safe and conducive learning environment for all its students. By emphasizing the potential legal ramifications of engaging in criminal activities, Dr. Ayorinde underscored the seriousness of the university’s commitment to upholding the law and maintaining order within its community.
The matriculation ceremony, therefore, served as a crucial platform for the university administration to communicate its expectations clearly and unequivocally to the incoming students. The strong emphasis on academic integrity, ethical conduct, and adherence to university regulations served as a powerful reminder of the responsibilities that come with being a student at Achievers University. The clear articulation of the potential consequences of engaging in prohibited activities served as a deterrent and a clear indication of the university’s unwavering commitment to maintaining a disciplined and conducive learning environment.
In essence, the message delivered to the matriculating students was unambiguous: academic excellence and responsible behavior are paramount. The university’s commitment to upholding these values is unwavering, and any deviation from these expectations will be met with decisive action. The administration’s firm stance underscores its dedication to nurturing well-rounded individuals who are not only academically proficient but also ethically grounded and respectful of the community they are now a part of. The matriculation ceremony, therefore, served not just as a welcoming event, but also as a crucial orientation to the values and standards that define the Achievers University experience.
