The Petroleum Training Institute (PTI) in Effurun, Delta State, Nigeria, recently held a matriculation ceremony for 1,625 newly admitted students, marking the commencement of their academic journey. During the ceremony, Dr. Samuel Onoji, the Principal and Chief Executive of PTI, delivered a significant address outlining the institution’s expectations and emphasizing its commitment to maintaining a conducive learning environment. A central theme of his message was the institute’s unwavering stance against social vices and its dedication to upholding high standards of conduct among its student body. He also highlighted a crucial financial aid opportunity for students, the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), recently established by the Federal Government.
Dr. Onoji explicitly stated PTI’s zero-tolerance policy towards a range of undesirable behaviors. These included examination misconduct, encompassing cheating and plagiarism; physical and sexual assault, underscoring the institution’s commitment to student safety and well-being; cultism, recognizing the disruptive and dangerous nature of such groups; and the use of drugs and narcotics, highlighting the detrimental effects on individual health and the campus environment. The ban also extended to theft and robbery, reinforcing respect for personal property; certificate forgery, emphasizing academic integrity; indecent dressing and prostitution, promoting decorum and responsible behavior; bullying and harassment, fostering a culture of respect and inclusivity; and the misuse of social media, recognizing the potential for online platforms to be used irresponsibly. Dr. Onoji stressed that students are expected to adhere to the rules and regulations outlined in the Student Handbook, which serves as a comprehensive guide to expected conduct.
Beyond the prohibition of social vices, Dr. Onoji’s address underscored the importance of financial accessibility to education. He lauded the establishment of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) by President Bola Tinubu, describing it as a significant step towards alleviating the financial burden faced by students pursuing higher education in Nigeria. The NELFUND, designed as a zero-interest loan scheme, provides financial assistance to students covering both their institutional fees and monthly living expenses. The accessibility of the loan application process, which can be completed entirely online, was also emphasized, encouraging both new and returning students to explore this opportunity.
The PTI’s successful access to NELFUND disbursements further solidifies its commitment to supporting students financially. Dr. Onoji confirmed that the institution received its first disbursement on February 11, 2025, enabling the distribution of funds to successful student applicants. This timely disbursement underscores the practical impact of the NELFUND initiative in easing the financial strain on students and allowing them to focus on their academic pursuits.
The newly admitted students represent a diverse range of academic disciplines, reflecting the breadth of programs offered at PTI. These include Computer Science and Computer Engineering, catering to the growing demand for skilled professionals in the technology sector; Electrical and Electronic Engineering, equipping students with expertise in vital areas of engineering; Environmental Science and Management Technology, addressing the increasing importance of environmental sustainability; and Industrial Safety and Environmental Technology, focusing on crucial safety and environmental considerations in industrial settings.
The diverse array of programs also includes Science Laboratory Technology, providing students with essential laboratory skills; Mechanical Engineering, a cornerstone of engineering disciplines; Mechatronics Engineering Technology, combining mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering principles; Petroleum Engineering and Geoscience, specializing in the exploration and production of oil and gas resources; Petroleum Marketing and Business Studies, focusing on the commercial aspects of the petroleum industry; Petroleum and Natural Gas Processing, delving into the refining and processing of these vital energy resources; Welding Engineering, specializing in welding techniques and processes; and Offshore Technology, addressing the unique challenges of offshore oil and gas operations. This wide range of programs underscores PTI’s commitment to providing specialized training in critical areas relevant to the petroleum and allied industries, equipping graduates with the skills and knowledge needed to contribute meaningfully to these sectors. The emphasis on both technical proficiency and ethical conduct reinforces PTI’s mission of producing well-rounded professionals prepared to excel in their chosen fields while upholding the highest standards of integrity.
