Don’t give up on fight against cultism, exam malpractice – Tinubu urges Fedpoly Oko

By Praise Chinecherem

President Bola Tinubu has charged authorities of the Federal Polytechnic Oko, Anambra State not to relent in its fight against cultism, examination malpractices and other forms of anti-social behavior.

The President who gave the charge on Friday at the 19th Convocation Ceremony of the institution, said there was absolutely no place for such societal vices in the country’s design and philosophy of education..

Represented by Director of Polytechnic Education and Allied Institutions in the Federal Ministry of Education, Dr Ejeh Usman, Tinubu congratulated Management, staff and students on the peace which the institution had enjoyed as well as relative stability of its academic sessions.

He said, “May I reiterate that no meaningful development can be made in the midst of crises and industrial strife.

“It is therefore pertinent that all stakeholders including staff, students and host community resort to fruitful dialogue at all times rather than to violent confrontations to press home their demands.

“I urge you not to relent in your efforts at eradicating acts of cultism, and other forms of anti-social behavior.

“Let me congratulate the graduands once again, on their achievements, which have been acquired through hard work, dedication, and perseverance.

“I encourage you to utilize the knowledge acquired from Federal Polytechnic Oko in the service of humanity and to continue to be good citizens of Nigeria and good ambassadors of your Alma mater.

“The Management should not relent on its oars, but to continue to propel this Institution to an enviable height.

“The government will continue to do its part in ensuring sustainable educational development through grants, interventions, manpower development, infrastructural development and programmes that will stimulate learning and promote academic content.

“It is therefore incumbent on stakeholders in this institution to uphold government’s effort by making our ivory towers enviable citadels of learning that produce refined and well-equipped graduates.

“The Federal Government will therefore not relent on its support to the sub-sector as long as it sustains its relevance in the national quest. This calls for a renewed emphasis on the strict compliance to the 70-30 admission ratio in favour of Science and Technology programmes by all Polytechnics.

“In the same vein, a constant review of the curricular to insert the gem of indigenization of our technology through the introduction of local contents, initiating policies that would promote peaceful and harmonious relationship between the Institution and with the host community cannot be over emphasized.

“I must not fail to mention that today, some eminent Nigerians who have excelled in their various disciplines and contributed to the development of our nation are being honoured with the conferment of Fellowship Award of this citadel of learning.

“I congratulate you all for your exemplary lives, as the upcoming generations look up to you as role model. I invite you therefore, to join hands with the Government in developing this institution.”

Earlier, Rector of the institution, Engr Dr Francisca Nwafulugo appreciated staff for their commitment and diligence in imparting knowledge, guidance and mentorship in molding and shaping the graduates’ minds, just as he praised the graduates for adhering to rules and regulations during their stay in school.

She said, “As we celebrate these exceptional graduates today I want to acknowledge their resilience, tenacity and hard work during their studentship. I commend them for adhering to rules and regulations which enabled them to stay above board.

“I wish to commend the teaching staff for their commitment to impart quality education which undoubtedly has contributed to the success we are celebrating today.

“To the parents and guardians of our graduates, your unwavering support has been a cornerstone for the achievement of these graduates. Your sacrifices and encouragement have played a crucial role in their academic journey.

“As these graduates move into the world beyond Federal Polytechnic Oko, let them carry with them not only the knowledge acquired but also values and principles instilled within these polytechnic walls.

“May they be beacons of positive change ,leaders in their respective fields and ambassadors of the excellence that defines our beloved institution.

“May this convocation ceremony be a testament to the triumph of education, perseverance and the indomitable spirit of Federal Polytechnic Oko community. Congratulations!!! graduates on this momentous achievement.

“The future awaits you. I have no doubt that each of you will contribute significantly to the development of our country Nigeria. May you succeed in your endeavours.”