The newly appointed Vice-Chancellor of the University of Uyo, Prof Christopher Ekong, has announced a strict stance against cultism and sexual harassment, declaring that offenders will face immediate disciplinary measures, including expulsion from the institution.
He also outlined plans to enhance campus security through the adoption of modern surveillance and access technologies, such as Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras, drones, and biometric systems.
Ekong made these commitments on Tuesday during his investiture ceremony as the ninth substantive Vice-Chancellor of the university.
As part of his administrative agenda, he revealed plans to introduce biometric data capture within his first 100 days in office to establish accurate records of staff and student populations and strengthen access control across the institution. He also announced a comprehensive audit covering key areas of the university system.
“We have zero tolerance for sexual harassment and cultism. The panel will not sit for more than 72 hours, and anyone involved will be shown the way out of the university.
“Within the first 100 days, my administration will intentionally introduce biometric data capture to determine the actual number of staff and students on the ground and for access control.
“We will also conduct a comprehensive institutional audit of infrastructure, finances, human resources, academic programmes and administrative systems.
He further stated that his administration would prioritise strengthening security architecture across all campuses through advanced technology and improved collaboration with host communities.
“We shall ensure optimal security across all campuses of the university, address vulnerabilities in our security architecture, introduce cutting-edge technology, including CCTV cameras, drones and biometric access systems, and establish robust partnerships with host communities to enhance security,” Ekong said.
The Vice-Chancellor added that key university facilities, including hostels and lecture theatres, would be outsourced to professional facility managers to ensure better maintenance and efficiency.
He also pledged uninterrupted internet access for staff and students alongside ongoing digital upgrades.
“We shall outsource the management of our key facilities, such as hostels and lecture theatres, to facility managers for sustainable management.
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We will ensure 24-hour internet access for staff and students. Work has already commenced on strengthening internet services and the full digitalisation of the university’s ICT infrastructure,” he said.
Ekong further promised to improve the university’s physical environment through landscaping, beautification projects, renovation of deteriorating buildings, and consistent maintenance of existing infrastructure.
Speaking at the event, the Chairman of the Governing Council and Pro-Chancellor, Dr Muiz Banire, congratulated the new Vice-Chancellor and urged him to remain focused despite challenges encountered during the selection process.
He noted that the process leading to Ekong’s appointment was highly competitive and not without difficulties.
“The journey to this day has not been smooth. It has been turbulent and, at times, traumatic.
“A lot of challenges accompanied the arrival of the Acting Vice-Chancellor and, indeed, the process leading to the emergence and appointment of the new vice-chancellor.
“Mr Viceroy -Chancellor, I urge you to overlook your detractors and forgive those who opposed your emergence.
“Do not allow yourself to be distracted by their actions. I travelled the same road and survived it through focus, patience, perseverance and an unwavering commitment to duty.
“There is no room for revenge, and there is certainly no time for it. The task ahead of you is enormous. This is not to suggest that where remedies are necessary, they should not be pursued.”
Also speaking, the outgoing Acting Vice-Chancellor, Prof Samuel Odewumi, advised Ekong to remain focused on driving the university’s development agenda and not be distracted by past issues, urging him to concentrate on implementing his vision for institutional growth.