By Ogenyi Ogenyi, Uyo
The Federal University of Technology, Ikot Abasi (FUTIA) has admitted and matriculated over 1,000 students into the university’s 24 degree programs for the 2024/2025 academic session. The university also announced automatic employment for students who graduate with a First Class degree.
During the second matriculation ceremony, Vice-Chancellor of FUTIA, Prof. Leo Daniel, congratulated the new students on their successful admission. He highlighted that the institution is committed to promoting academic excellence in the fields of Engineering, Science, Technology, and Innovation, with the goal of providing students with the best training possible.
“Your admission into this institution is a major milestone in your preparation for the future. This success will depend on your commitment to your studies, research, innovation, academic excellence, sportsmanship, and extracurricular activities,” Prof. Daniel emphasized.
He further stressed that FUTIA is one of the specialized institutions established by the Federal Government of Nigeria to champion excellence in Science, Technology, Engineering, Innovation, and Research.
“We are committed to providing you with the best training so that you can become valuable members of society upon graduation. We have well-trained lecturers and faculty members who will guide you to excel in your respective fields,” he added.
The Vice-Chancellor also noted that the incoming students are privileged to be part of the second batch of students admitted into the university, following the pioneer set admitted in the previous academic session.
Prof. Daniel cautioned the students against engaging in cultism, examination malpractice, and other social vices. “Please be aware that the Governing Council and Management of the University have zero tolerance for examination malpractice, cultism, indecent dressing, drug abuse, cybercrimes, and other social vices. Any student found guilty will face appropriate disciplinary measures, including possible expulsion,” he warned.
The Vice-Chancellor expressed gratitude to the parents, guardians, and sponsors of the students for their investment in education, especially for choosing FUTIA over other institutions. He pledged that the university would fulfill its responsibility to train the students to be worthy in learning and character upon graduation.
Prof. Daniel also acknowledged the commitment of the university’s management and staff to promoting academic excellence and best administrative practices. He thanked stakeholders, including the Federal Ministry of Education, Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND), Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), and Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), for their contributions to the development of the university and the education sector.
The Vice-Chancellor further explained that the automatic employment offer for First Class graduates, in addition to other prizes, is intended to motivate students to strive for academic excellence and competitiveness. He encouraged the students to make the most of the opportunities available to them.
Mr. Erasmus Mbobo, the school bursar, disclosed that the Federal Government is intervening in funding students’ tuition through the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND).
The oath of studentship was administered to the matriculating students by Mrs. Offiongita Nkang, the Registrar and Secretary to the Senate of the University. Prof. Leo Daniel formally admitted the students.
One of the matriculating students, Godsfavour Emeka of the Department of Software Engineering, commended the university for its high academic standards. However, he requested expedited action on the construction of facilities at the permanent site of the university. He also praised the Federal Government’s student loan initiative, calling it a positive step in the right direction.
