The management of the Federal Polytechnic, Ukana, in Essien Udim Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State has reiterated its firm commitment to a zero-tolerance policy on cultism, examination malpractice, and other antisocial behaviours within the institution.
The Rector, Dr. Eduma Essien, delivered the warning on Tuesday while addressing newly admitted students during the institution’s 12th Orientation Exercise held at the 250-capacity lecture theatre on the main campus. She stressed that discipline and integrity remain central to the Polytechnic’s vision of producing graduates who can confidently defend their certificates anywhere in the world.
“We have zero tolerance for cultism and examination malpractice because we want to produce graduates of sound character who can stand tall academically and morally,” Essien said, urging students to familiarise themselves with the Polytechnic’s rules and regulations and avoid actions capable of tarnishing the institution’s image.
Beyond academic excellence, the Rector highlighted the institution’s commitment to equipping students with practical, market-relevant skills through its mandatory skills acquisition programme. According to her, the programme is designed to ensure graduates are not only certificate holders but individuals with certified, globally recognised competencies.
“As a student of this Polytechnic, you will graduate with both academic qualifications and practical skills that prepare you for life beyond the classroom,” she noted, adding that today’s world increasingly values creativity, innovation, and what individuals can contribute to society.
Essien also encouraged students to build healthy academic relationships with their lecturers by taking assignments seriously and participating actively in their studies to enhance effective teaching and learning.
On student welfare and ethics, the Rector warned against sexual harassment and unethical practices, urging students to report any form of sexual pressure from lecturers to the management or the institution’s Anti-Sexual Harassment Unit. She emphasised that the Polytechnic does not condone the exchange of gifts for marks and has prohibited the sale of handouts, directing students to rely solely on approved textbooks.
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She assured the fresh students that the institution remains committed to providing a safe, disciplined, and conducive learning environment, pledging that these standards would be upheld throughout her tenure.
The orientation programme also featured lectures from key management staff, including the Registrar, Idhigu Lucky; the Bursar, Dr. Emmanuel Esomonu; and the Polytechnic Librarian, Ehikioya Uduebor, who educated students on various aspects of campus life and academic administration.
The exercise marked the beginning of the academic journey for the new students, with the Polytechnic urging them to embrace discipline, integrity, and excellence as core values of their stay in the institution.