By Rotimi Agboluaje, Ibadan
The Vice-Chancellor of Emmanuel Alayande University of Education, Oyo, Prof. Olanrewaju Olaniyan, has warned newly admitted students against involvement in violence, internet fraud and examination malpractice, stressing that the institution has zero tolerance for acts capable of undermining academic integrity.
Olaniyan gave the warning during the university’s third matriculation ceremony held in Oyo Town, where 2,893 students from 25 states were formally admitted into the institution.
Addressing the fresh students, the Vice-Chancellor described them as the “Radiant Generation,” noting that the title comes with responsibility and expectations.
“This set is named as Radiant Generation because you will be radiant and glow. You have to work to earn the name,” he said.
He urged the students to set clear academic and personal goals, remain focused and cultivate relationships that would positively influence their journey in the university.
“To survive, you must set clear goals. Seek knowledge from your colleagues and lecturers. Beware of fair-weather friends. We have zero tolerance for fraud, yahoo-yahoo and examination malpractice. Do not join those who engage in such acts; it will end in disaster and crisis,” Olaniyan warned.
The Vice-Chancellor emphasised that the management would not hesitate to apply the institution’s disciplinary measures against erring students, adding that integrity remains central to the university’s mandate of producing quality educators.
He also cautioned the students against misuse of technology and social media platforms, reminding them that online activities carry consequences.
“Use technology responsibly, as you will be held responsible for anything you post on social media and online. We abhor violence and all forms of harassment,” he added.
Olaniyan reiterated that the university is committed to maintaining a peaceful and conducive learning environment and would resist any attempt to introduce cultism, harassment or disruptive behaviour into the campus.
In her matriculation lecture, Prof. Stella Ojebode, former Dean, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ibadan, described the ceremony as a defining moment in the lives of the new students and a call to embrace the noble profession of teaching.
“I am deeply honoured to stand before you today on this significant occasion in the life of this great institution,” she said, noting that admission into a university of education carries both privilege and responsibility.
According to her, education remains the most powerful instrument for national development, while teachers form the foundation upon which other professions are built.
“In classrooms across Oyo State, across Nigeria and beyond, there is a pressing need for educators who are knowledgeable, disciplined, innovative and ethical. The future of our nation will pass through classrooms you will one day lead,” she said.
Ojebode urged the students to uphold academic integrity and respect the rules and values of the institution.
“Knowledge without character is incomplete, and certificates without competence are insufficient. Let integrity be your identity and excellence your standard,” she advised.
She urged them to use their years in the university to grow intellectually and emotionally, build productive friendships and prepare to become competent and ethical educators.
