Rector Charges New Students of Federal Polytechnic, Oko to Shun Social Vices at 42nd Matriculation

The Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie, has cautioned newly admitted students of the institution against engaging in drug abuse, cultism, examination malpractice, cybercrime, indecent behaviour, and other forms of social vices, stressing that the Polytechnic maintains a zero-tolerance stance on misconduct.

Dr. Awuzie gave the admonition during the 42nd Matriculation Ceremony of the Polytechnic, held on Friday, January 23, 2026, at the Convocation Arena, where she formally inducted the new students into the academic community.

She warned that any student found culpable of violating the institution’s rules would be sanctioned in line with established regulations, emphasizing that ignorance of the rules would not be accepted as an excuse.

“Today, you have been presented with an opportunity—do not waste it. Be focused, disciplined, innovative, and excellent in all your endeavours. Let your stay in Federal Polytechnic, Oko prepare you not merely for certificates, but for service, leadership, and lifelong relevance,” the Rector stated.

While congratulating the students on securing admission, Dr. Awuzie noted that their admission was not by chance but a reflection of hard work, determination, and the confidence the institution has in their potential.

“By this ceremony, you are formally inducted into the academic community of this great institution and officially recognised as bona fide students of the Federal Polytechnic, Oko,” she said.

The Rector described Federal Polytechnic, Oko as an institution with a long-standing reputation for academic excellence, discipline, innovation, and the production of skilled manpower for national development, adding that excellence is achieved through commitment, integrity, and perseverance.

She urged the matriculating students to make judicious use of the academic facilities and opportunities available to them, attend lectures and practical sessions regularly, and comply strictly with the Polytechnic’s rules and regulations.

“As a Polytechnic, our mandate is to integrate theory with practice. You are therefore encouraged to develop not only intellectually but also practically, creatively, and entrepreneurially,” she said.

Dr. Awuzie further encouraged the students to embrace innovation, digital literacy, and the responsible use of technology, noting that adaptability, integrity, and ethical leadership are essential in today’s rapidly evolving world.

In a related development, she disclosed that the management has taken delivery of additional student chairs and desks, which are currently being installed across lecture halls on the Oko Campus to enhance teaching and learning conditions.

The Rector expressed appreciation to parents and guardians for the confidence reposed in the institution, assuring them of management’s commitment to providing a safe, conducive, and intellectually stimulating environment for their children and wards.

She also commended the Governing Council, Management, staff, and students for their dedication, resilience, and collective efforts in sustaining and advancing the standards of the Federal Polytechnic, Oko.