Reported by Weng Patrick Atokor | Journalist at Weng Global
The Vice-Chancellor of the Osun State University, Professor Clement Adebooye, has issued a strong warning to newly admitted students, urging them to stay away from cultism, cybercrime, examination malpractice, drug abuse, and other forms of misconduct capable of jeopardizing their academic future.
The Vice-Chancellor delivered the warning during the university’s matriculation ceremony for newly admitted students across its campuses in Osun State, where he emphasized that the institution maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward activities that threaten peace, discipline, and academic excellence.
Addressing the fresh students, Adebooye said admission into the university marked the beginning of a journey that requires discipline, integrity, responsibility, and commitment to learning.
He reminded the students that while university life offers opportunities for personal growth, innovation, and networking, it also comes with responsibilities that every student must uphold.
According to him, the university has established regulations guiding students’ conduct, and violations of those rules would attract appropriate disciplinary measures without favoritism.
Zero tolerance for cultism
Professor Adebooye specifically warned against involvement in secret cults, describing cultism as one of the greatest threats to peace and safety within tertiary institutions.
He said membership of cult groups often exposes students to violence, intimidation, criminal activities, injuries, and even death, while also disrupting the academic environment.
The Vice-Chancellor stressed that the university would not hesitate to expel any student found participating in cult-related activities or associating with outlawed groups.
He urged students to instead channel their energy into legitimate campus organizations, academic clubs, entrepreneurial programmes, sports, and leadership initiatives that promote positive development.
According to him, genuine success in higher education comes through hard work and dedication rather than shortcuts or criminal associations.
Cybercrime incompatible with university values
Adebooye also condemned cybercrime, popularly referred to as internet fraud or “Yahoo Yahoo,” warning that the university would not shield any student involved in fraudulent online activities.
He noted that cybercrime has damaged the image of many young Nigerians and warned that those found guilty risk prosecution by law enforcement agencies in addition to sanctions imposed by the university.
He encouraged students to use digital technology for research, innovation, entrepreneurship, software development, and other productive ventures capable of contributing positively to society.
The Vice-Chancellor added that technological knowledge should be used to solve societal problems rather than exploit innocent victims.
Warning against examination malpractice
The university management also reiterated its commitment to maintaining academic integrity.
Students were warned against examination malpractice, plagiarism, impersonation, and all forms of academic dishonesty.
Adebooye explained that the institution has invested significantly in quality teaching, learning facilities, and assessment procedures to ensure graduates earn degrees based on merit.
He advised students to attend lectures regularly, prepare adequately for examinations, and seek academic assistance whenever they encounter challenges instead of resorting to dishonest practices.
The Vice-Chancellor reminded the students that integrity remains one of the most valuable qualities employers look for after graduation.
Students urged to avoid drug abuse
Professor Adebooye equally cautioned students against drug abuse and excessive alcohol consumption, describing substance abuse as a major contributor to violence, poor academic performance, mental health challenges, and criminal behaviour.
He advised students to prioritize healthy living, maintain positive friendships, and make use of counselling and support services provided by the university whenever necessary.
He stressed that peer pressure should never influence students into making decisions capable of destroying their future.
Focus on academic excellence
The Vice-Chancellor encouraged the matriculating students to remain committed to their studies while taking advantage of opportunities available through research, innovation, entrepreneurship, leadership training, and community development.
He urged them to build relationships with lecturers, mentors, and fellow students that would contribute positively to their academic and professional growth.
According to him, the university is committed to producing graduates who possess not only academic competence but also integrity, leadership skills, and entrepreneurial capacity.
He encouraged students to utilize the institution’s libraries, digital learning resources, laboratories, and innovation centres to maximize their educational experience.
Parents encouraged to support students
Professor Adebooye also appreciated parents and guardians for entrusting the university with the education of their children.
He assured them that the institution would continue to provide an environment conducive to learning, character development, and innovation while enforcing its rules fairly.
He appealed to parents to maintain regular communication with their children and support efforts aimed at ensuring discipline throughout their stay in the university.
Building responsible graduates
The Vice-Chancellor noted that higher education should not only produce graduates with academic qualifications but also individuals who demonstrate integrity, honesty, patriotism, and respect for the rule of law.
He said universities have a critical role in shaping future leaders capable of contributing meaningfully to national development.
He therefore urged the newly admitted students to make choices that would reflect positively on themselves, their families, and the institution.
As the students begin a new chapter of their academic journey, Adebooye reminded them that the reputation they build during their years at the university could significantly influence future educational and career opportunities.
He concluded by urging them to remain law-abiding citizens, respect university regulations, avoid criminal activities, and strive for excellence in all aspects of campus life.
The matriculation ceremony marked the formal admission of the new students into the university community, with management reaffirming its commitment to maintaining a safe, disciplined, and academically excellent environment.
Sources
- Osun State University (UNIOSUN)
- University matriculation address by Vice-Chancellor Prof. Clement Adebooye
