Asuquo Cletus
The University of Cross River State has admitted 9,454 fresh students into its various faculties for the 2025/2026 academic session, warning them against examination malpractice and other social vices.
The Vice Chancellor of the institution, Francisca Bassey, gave the warning during the university’s matriculation ceremony held on campus.
Addressing the students on Monday, Bassey described the matriculation ceremony as a formal induction into the academic community and urged them to uphold the institution’s values of discipline, integrity and academic excellence.
“This matriculation marks your formal admission into the academic family of this university. As students of this great institution, you must be committed not only to academic excellence but also to good character,” she said.
She cautioned the students against engaging in acts capable of tarnishing the reputation of the institution.
“The university has zero tolerance for examination malpractice, drug abuse, bullying, sexual harassment, indecent dressing, vandalism and other forms of indiscipline. Anyone found wanting will face the full weight of the institution’s regulations,” she warned.
The vice chancellor also encouraged the students to take advantage of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund introduced by the Federal Government to assist students facing financial challenges.
“Students who applied for the NELFUND earlier in the year have already had their funds disbursed to the university. Those who have not registered should do so promptly, settle their fees and complete their course registration,” she added.
Bassey expressed appreciation to the Cross River State Governor and Visitor to the university, Bassey Edet Otu, for his continued support towards the growth and development of the institution.
She noted that the governor’s interventions had contributed significantly to repositioning the university as a centre of academic excellence.
The vice chancellor also disclosed that the university would continue its tradition of rewarding outstanding academic performance.
“We will continue to recognise and reward academic excellence. The best students across faculties will receive scholarships and special prizes during the forthcoming students’ week, and these prizes are personally sponsored from my salary as Vice Chancellor,” she said.
Bassey further urged the new students to make effective use of the university’s academic facilities, including the library, laboratories and ICT resources.
“As your mother in this institution, I remind you that greatness is not given but earned through hard work, discipline, perseverance and integrity,” she added.
She congratulated the students on their admission and encouraged them to remain focused and strive to make their families and the university proud.
