By Asuquo Cletus
The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Calabar (UNICAL), Prof. Offiong Offiong has warned against over-admission into the institution, declaring that the practice will no longer be tolerated under his administration.
Offiong gave the warning on Thursday while addressing journalists to herald the commencement of the university’s 38th convocation ceremony in Calabar.
He stressed that the management had put in place strict measures to sanitise the admission process, insisting that the institution would only admit students in line with its approved carrying capacity.
“We have begun with some preliminary measures to sanitise the admission process. Let me state clearly, no more over-admission,” he said.
The Vice-Chancellor cautioned parents, guardians and prospective students against mounting pressure on the institution for admission into highly competitive courses such as Medicine, Pharmacy and Nursing where available slots are limited.
“Please, when you are told there is no space in Medicine and Surgery, Pharmacy or Nursing, do not insist. We will not indulge in over-admission,” he added.
Prof Offiong disclosed that any official found culpable in previous admission irregularities was already facing disciplinary action, noting that the Central Admissions Committee had been restored to ensure transparency and due process.
He also warned members of the public against engaging in bribery to secure admission or employment, urging them to report anyone soliciting financial inducement.
“If you give bribe, you are guilty; if you receive bribe, you are also guilty. Every admission and employment process will be strictly based on merit and due process,” he said.
The VC further revealed that the university was investigating cases of certificate racketeering and forgery involving fake documents allegedly being processed in some computer centres using the institution’s name.
According to him, those involved would be exposed and prosecuted once apprehended.
Speaking on the convocation, Offiong said a total of 10,820 students would graduate during the ceremony, including 52 first-class degree holders and 463 PhD graduands.
He outlined activities lined up for the convocation, scheduled to run from April 7 to April 12, 2026, including an interdenominational service, research fair and exhibition, convocation lecture, award of degrees and a grand finale thanksgiving service.
The Vice-Chancellor noted that the convocation, the first under his leadership, would also serve as an opportunity to showcase the institution’s research output and ongoing reforms aimed at repositioning UNICAL.
He reiterated his administration’s commitment to transparency, academic excellence and institutional integrity, while seeking continued support from stakeholders and the media in driving the university’s transformation agenda.
