The Acting Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), Prof. Oguejiofo Ujam, has urged newly admitted students of the university to strive for academic excellence and avoid actions that could jeopardize their future.
Prof. Ujam made the call on Friday during the institution’s orientation programme for the 2024/2025 academic session, held on the Nsukka campus.
In his address, the vice-chancellor, represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Romanus Ezeokonkwo, assured the freshmen of their safety and encouraged them to be law-abiding and focused on their studies.
“This university places high premium on merit, fairness, and excellence,” he said. “You must take your studies seriously, attend your lectures regularly, and participate fully in all assessments, as your academic progress depends on them.”
He also pledged the university’s commitment to improving students’ welfare, particularly in the provision of essential services such as water, electricity, and sanitation in hostels and other parts of the campus.
Ujam emphasized that the university maintains a strict zero-tolerance stance on examination malpractices, cultism, and other social vices, and advised the students to carefully study the university’s handbook to familiarize themselves with rules and regulations.
In his remarks, the Dean of Student Affairs, Prof. Christian Ezeibe, represented by Associate Dean, Dr. Peter Asadu, welcomed the students and outlined the services available to support their academic and personal development.
“This orientation introduces you to the university’s core values, expectations, and opportunities,” he said. “We expect you to uphold academic integrity, respect for diversity, and a commitment to excellence.”
Ezeibe highlighted the importance of engaging with the university community through extracurricular activities, academic resources, and campus services.
The orientation featured presentations from various resource persons who guided the students through procedures on academic policies, course registration, use of the library, digital learning tools, financial matters, health and wellness, security, and social life.
Some freshmen who spoke to journalists expressed satisfaction with the programme, noting that it provided valuable guidance to help them succeed in their academic journey.
(NAN)