The Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Ukana, Akwa Ibom State, Mrs. Eduma Essien, has cautioned students of the institution to steer clear of cultism, examination malpractice, and all forms of antisocial behaviour.
She also urged students to report any form of sexual pressure or harassment from lecturers to the polytechnic management or the Anti-Sexual Harassment Unit for appropriate investigation and sanctions, stressing that the institution places a high premium on discipline.
Speaking during the 12th Orientation Exercise for newly admitted students, the rector charged them to familiarise themselves with the polytechnic’s policies, rules, and regulations.
Mrs. Essien further stated that the sale of handouts by lecturers is prohibited in the institution, advising students to purchase only approved textbooks.
She assured the students that, under her leadership, learning would be conducted in an environment that promotes discipline, safety, and academic excellence.
According to her, “I encourage you to report any form of sexual pressure from lecturers to the management or the Anti-Sexual Harassment Unit. This institution frowns at the exchange of gifts for marks.
“We also have zero tolerance for cultism and examination malpractice because we want to produce graduates who can confidently defend their certificates anywhere.”
The rector explained that students of the polytechnic would not only graduate with academic certificates but would also acquire practical skills through the institution’s mandatory skills acquisition programme.
She noted that the world is increasingly focused on what individuals can offer to society, adding that the programme was designed to make graduates self-reliant and competitive.
Mrs. Essien also encouraged students to cooperate with their lecturers by diligently carrying out their assignments to ensure that teaching and learning are effective and rewarding.
The orientation exercise featured resource persons who delivered lectures on various aspects of the polytechnic system, including the Registrar, Mr. Idhigu Lucky; the Bursar, Sir Emmanuel Esomonu; and the Polytechnic Librarian, Mr. Ehikioya Uduebor, among others.
