The Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), Professor Adenike Oladiji, has issued a stern warning to newly admitted students to avoid anti-social behavior and deviant acts that could lead to the termination of their studentship.
This message was delivered during her address at the opening of the 2024/2025 orientation program for freshers on Monday, December 16, 2024.
Professor Oladiji outlined several behaviors that would not be tolerated at the institution, including indecent dressing, violence—such as fighting and destruction of university property, disrespect towards staff, and examination malpractices. She emphasized that students who violate these rules would face severe consequences, adding that “impersonation earns the offenders – both the person who impersonates and the person being helped – automatic expulsion.”
Additionally, Professor Oladiji cautioned students about the dangers of social media, stressing the negative impacts the internet could have when misused. “Let me warn you about your use of social media. While the Internet has made the world a much better place through timely dissemination of information, it has also become a weapon of destruction in the hands of youths who have yielded their souls to the devil.
Various offensive activities are being carried out on the Internet such as cyber-stalking, cyber-bullying, phishing, and other forms of online activities meant to defraud people. The Management will not take kindly to any activity that is capable of dragging the name of the University in the mud.”
She also reiterated the university’s stellar academic reputation, noting that FUTA has consistently ranked among the top ten universities in Nigeria over the last decade and remains the best university of technology in the country for more than twenty years. “It took quite some efforts to attain the current enviable position of the University among Universities in Nigeria,” she said, emphasizing the university’s goal of becoming a globally recognized center of excellence.
Professor Oladiji highlighted the importance of information for students’ success, advising them to familiarize themselves with the academic programs and regulations outlined in the students’ handbook. “All the dos and ‘don’ts’ are expressly stated in the students’ handbook,” she said, also urging students to prioritize their studies and stay away from negative influences. “Always remember home and how your parents have labored hard to see you gain admission.”
In her closing remarks, Professor Oladiji reassured the students that the university management would continue to provide essential facilities for a fulfilling studentship.
“On our part, we will continue to strive to create an environment that would make learning very conducive. I can boldly declare that FUTA ranks among the best in Nigeria when it comes to responding to the complaints of students. Ours is not an ‘open-door’ administration, it is a ‘no-door’ administration,” she declared. “We are here in-loco parentis to you and we take the obligation with the understanding that we are accountable not only to the higher authorities at the National Universities Commission and the Federal Ministry of Education but also to the Almighty God, who sees even the intents of our hearts.”
Earlier, in his welcome address, the Dean of Student Affairs, Professor David Oke, congratulated the new students and urged them to embrace the university’s vision of becoming a world-class institution known for training, research, and service delivery. He encouraged them to participate fully in the orientation program to ensure a smooth transition from secondary school to university life, emphasizing the core values of Integrity, Creativity, Accountability, Rationality, and Excellence.
