Elizade varsity matriculates 708 students

The Elizade University, Ilara-Mokin, in Ifedore Local Government Area of Ondo State, has charged the new students of the University to stay away from social vices, be focused and self-disciplined.

The Vice Chancellor of the university, Professor Philip Oguntunde, who issued this stern warning to newly admitted undergraduates, urged them to abstain from engaging in secret cults, examination malpractices, and other illicit activities.

Oguntunde said the university had zero tolerance for indiscipline and social vices such as examination malpractice, cultism, drug abuse, sexual harassment, cybercrime, among others.

He disclosed that a total of 708 students took the matriculation oath of the institution, comprising 610 undergraduate and 98 postgraduate students.

Oguntunde said, “Let me at this juncture be clear on our culture of discipline and standards. Intellectual excellence must be supported by discipline and ethical conduct.

“The university maintains zero tolerance for examination malpractice, cultism, drug abuse, sexual harassment, cybercrime, and all forms of misconduct.

“You are, therefore, expected to attend lectures consistently, engage actively in academic work, respect university authorities and fellow students and uphold the values and regulations of Elizade University.

“You must understand that your conduct, both on campus and beyond, reflects directly on you, your family, and this institution.”

The VC also admonished the students to embrace entrepreneurship programmes, which would make them self-reliant instead of seeking white-collar jobs after graduation.

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He added that the institution would take the students through the entrepreneurship courses during their stay in the school.

“This is why entrepreneurship and innovation are embedded across all faculties. As students, you will engage in: compulsory entrepreneurship and innovation courses; practical, project-based learning and industry-linked assignments; as well as problem-solving initiatives that address societal and economic challenges,” the VC stated.

He also charged them to develop strong digital literacy, regardless of their discipline.

Oguntunde charged, ” Learn to work with data, technology, and emerging digital tools; and understand the ethical and practical implications of Artificial Intelligence.

“Whether you study engineering, law, sciences, humanities, or health sciences, your relevance in the coming decades will depend on your ability to adapt, innovate, and think sustainably.”

“Elizade University is committed to providing the platforms, infrastructure, and mentorship to support you in this journey, but the drive must come from you.”

Historically, secret cults have been a major issue in Nigerian universities.

Private universities like Elizade market themselves to parents as safe havens free from the violence and strikes that occasionally affect public institutions.

With the rise of the digital economy, there has been a surge in youth involvement in internet fraud. The VC’s specific mention of cybercrime is a direct response to this national trend.