The Rector of Federal Polytechnic Oko, Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie has admonished the matriculating students of the institution to avoid acts of drug abuse, indiscipline, indecent behaviour and all forms of social vices.
She noted that the institution maintains zero tolerance for such acts, warning that offenders would be sanctioned in accordance with established regulations.
The Rector who spoke on the occasion of the 42nd Matriculation ceremony of the Polytechnic held on Friday, January 23rd 2026 at the Convocation Arena also advised the students not to waste but make judicious use of the opportunity offered to them as the newly admitted students of the institution.
“Today, you have been presented with an opportunity—do not waste it. Be focused, disciplined, innovative and excellent in all your endeavours. Let your stay in Federal Polytechnic, Oko prepare you not merely for certificates, but for service, leadership and lifelong relevance.
“While striving for academic excellence, be mindful of your character. Shun cultism, examination malpractice, drug abuse, indiscipline, cybercrime, indecent behaviour, and all forms of social vices, she advised.
While congratulating the students on securing admission into the institution, she said the admission wasn’t by chance; rather, it reflects their hard work, determination, and the confidence reposed in their potential by the Federal Polytechnic Oko.
“By this ceremony, you are formally inducted into the academic community of this great institution and officially recognized as bona fide students of the Federal Polytechnic, Oko.”
According to the Rector, Federal Polytechnic, Oko has over the years earned a strong reputation for academic excellence, discipline, innovation and the production of skilled manpower for national development.
She informed that excellence in the institution is not accidental but achieved through commitment, integrity and perseverance.
The Rector further urged the newly-admitted students to take full advantage of the facilities and opportunities provided by the institution while encouraging the newly admitted students to be disciplined in their studies, attend lectures and practical sessions regularly, and adhere strictly to the rules and regulations of the Polytechnic, stating that ignorance of these rules will not be accepted as an excuse for misconduct.
“As a Polytechnic, our mandate is to integrate theory with practice. You are therefore encouraged to develop not only intellectually but also practically, creatively, and entrepreneurially.
“Embrace innovation, digital literacy, and the responsible use of technology. In a rapidly evolving world, adaptability, integrity, and ethical leadership are indispensable.”
“Management has taken delivery of additional student chairs and desks, which are currently being installed in lecture halls across the Oko Campus to further improve teaching and learning conditions.”
Rector, Dr. Chioma Awuzie appreciated the parents and guardians, for reposing much confidence in the institution, assuring that management remains committed to providing a safe, conducive, and intellectually stimulating environment for their children and wards.
She specially commended the Governing Council, Management, Staff and Students for their dedication, resilience and collective efforts in sustaining and advancing the standards of the institution.
