***Expresses concern over accommodation shortage
The Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology (FUT) Minna, Professor Farouk Adamu Kuta has warned the newly admitted students of the University to stay clear from cultism and any form of fraud or financial crimes, saying that the institution has zero tolerance for all form of indiscipline in the school.
The Vice Chancellor gave the warning on Monday during the Matriculation ceremony of 5,532 students for the 2023/2024 academic session at the university convocation square Gidan kwano campus Minna, the Niger capital.
He reminded the students that the university only awards degrees to students who exceled both in character and learning, and therefore should refrain from acts contrary to the rules and regulations of the University, including examination malpractice, fraud of all kinds, financial racketeering, cultism, fighting, assault, rumour-mongering, and illicit drug dealing.
According to him, the University rules and regulations are outlined in the Students Handbook, and they are therefore strongly advised to read and adhere to them, stressing that “The University encourages all students to exhibit high sense of discipline while in the University”.
He told the students that the institution has in place, Students Disciplinary Committee and Committee Against Anti-Social Activities (CASA) to check and monitor students with anti-social behavioural tendencies.
Professor Adamu Kuta pointed out that the University which was established in 1983, stands as a shining example of knowledge and innovation within and outside Nigeria, and representing the nation’s dedication to self-sufficiency in Science, Engineering, and Technology.
He equally told the students to count themselves lucky to be part of the 36th Matriculation Ceremony of the University, stressing that out of the 6,244 candidates that applied for admissions into the University, only 5,532 were privileged to have been given the admission to study various degree programmes offered in the University.
The Vice Chancellor disclosed that since the institution was established 40 years ago, it has consistently upheld its mission of fostering excellence and creativity among its students, adding that “at the heart of the University’s mission is its aspiration to achieve world-class status, emphasising its commitment to excellence in education and service delivery.
“This ambition revolves around cultivating a skilled and innovative workforce ready to leverage Nigeria’s abundant resources through Entrepreneurship and Information and Communication Technology, thereby supporting the nation’s economy and improving the quality of life for its citizens”.
He assured the students that under his leadership, the University will continue to strive to make their stay worthwhile, adding that “your time in this University, you will have a wonderful experience and a memorable transformation.
“As new students, everything may seem unfamiliar to you, however, what you should know is that the University emphasis on innovative practical experience to prepare you for responsible global citizenship”.
The Vice Chancellor therefore encouraged the students to take advantage of the Information Technology Services (ITS) facilities and services in the institution, reminding them that they are the second set of students on-campus to receive their lectures on e-platform.
“Although the process may seem rough and tough for some of you, we believe it is the best way to go, and we will do everything within our means to make it smoother and softer”, he added.
He expressed concerned over the shortage of hostel accommodation within the campuses but assured that the institution is working round the clock with other stakeholders to provide affordable and convenient hostel accommodation.
One of the newly matriculated students with the Computer Engineering Department, Amanda Ann Adams, said it was a dream come true for her to be among the 5,534 students that were offered admission by the institution, adding that “I did not only got the admission, I got the course that I wanted to study”.