The management of the Federal Polytechnic, Ukana, in Essien Udim Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, has warned students against cultism, examination malpractice and other forms of misconduct.
The warning was issued on Tuesday during the 12th orientation exercise for newly admitted students at the institution’s main campus.
Addressing the fresh students, the Rector, Dr Eduma Essien, said the Polytechnic operates a zero-tolerance policy on cult-related activities and examination malpractice.
She urged the students to conduct themselves in line with the institution’s rules and regulations, stressing that discipline remains key to academic success.
“We have zero tolerance for cultism and examination malpractice because we want to produce graduates who can confidently defend their certificates anywhere,” Essien said.
“So, I urge you to completely eschew such acts that could tarnish the reputation of the institution by abiding by the Polytechnic’s policies, rules and regulations.”
The Rector explained that students would graduate not only with academic certificates but also with practical skills through the school’s mandatory skills acquisition programme.
According to her, the programme is designed to equip students with competencies that are recognised and certified internationally.
“As a student of this Polytechnic, you will not only graduate with academic certificates, but you will also acquire practical skills through our mandatory skills acquisition programme,” she said.
Essien described the Polytechnic as an institution committed to training students in knowledge, skills and character to enable them to excel within and outside the school environment.
She also advised students to cooperate with their lecturers, carry out assignments diligently and avoid actions capable of disrupting the learning process.
On sexual harassment, the Rector urged students to report any form of sexual pressure from lecturers to the management or the Anti-Sexual Harassment Unit.
She stressed that the institution frowned at the exchange of gifts for marks.
Essien further announced that the sale of handouts was prohibited in the Polytechnic, adding that students should only purchase approved textbooks.
She assured the students that the management would continue to provide a safe and disciplined learning environment that promotes academic excellence.
The orientation exercise also featured lectures by key management staff, including the Registrar, Idhigu Lucky; the Bursar, Dr Emmanuel Esomonu; and the Polytechnic Librarian, Ehikioya Uduebor.
