Favour Essien
The acting vice chancellor, professor Oguejiofor T. Ujam, during his address speech at the matriculation ceremony of the University of Nigeria, said that the University seek to produce truly educated, civilized, decent and law-abiding citizens.
He said this in a speech made on the faculty of education lecture hall, University of Nigeria, Nsukka. The Acting Vice Chancellor was duly represented by the Dean, faculty of Education of the institution, Prof. Godfrey Nfi. On the matriculation ceremony, 12th April, 2025.
According to the speech, students are expected to live amicably and in harmony with other members of the University community. “ the University community which includes fellow students and staff. This can be achieved by mutual respect, irrespective of differences in culture, religion, tribe or habits”.
“The University has also outlined several policies to support and protect students from exploitation, harassment, intimidation and other forms of abuse at the hands of Staff or fellow students. My Administration will continue to implement these policies to ensure that students study in an atmosphere devoid of social encumbrances,” he said.
“You are , therefore, encouraged to report any forms of exploitation or harassment to the appropriate authorities, notably the Dean of Students Affairs or your Head of Department,” he continued
He also urged the students to take advantage of the various forms of support available to students —varying from academic and staff adviser ls and the counselling unit of the student affairs department — wherever they are faced with any form of mental health challenge.
“In the course of your stay here at the University, you now come under various forms of psychological or mental health challenges. This is common to young adults, especially students going through a rapidly changing phase of life. At such times we encourage you to take advantage of the various forms/ levels of support available to students for the University,” he said.
“This includes the Academic advisers, the Staff Adviser ls and the Counselling Unit of the Department of Students Affairs. Students are encouraged to take advantage of these support systems to find help and guidance to enable them to overcome whatever problems may be facing,” he continued.
Speaking with UCJ-UNN correspondents,
Benedict Ugwu, a matriculant of the faculty of education said he felt excited and hopes on God to guide him through school.
Cynthia Ononye, another matriculant, of the faculty said that she also felt very happy.” I can’t put it in words, I’m very happy,”she said as she danced to the tune of the music.
The event was meant for induction of the new students, popularly known as “freshers” into the University of Nigeria. With the declaration of loyalty before end of the ceremony, the students were induced to the University.