Professor Hakeem Fawehinmi, the Vice Chancellor of Nigeria British University in Asa, Abia State, cautions students about the potential dangers of overindulging in social media, urging them to exercise caution for their safety.
Additionally, Fawehinmi sternly admonished against engaging in cultism, examination malpractices, and other detrimental behaviors, emphasizing the institution’s zero-tolerance policy towards such antisocial activities.
Delivering his address during the inaugural matriculation ceremony of the university, held in Asa, a border community between Abia and Rivers states, the Vice Chancellor issued the cautionary message, emphasizing the institution’s values in the presence of 65 newly matriculated students.
He emphasized the benefits of the internet while cautioning students about the potential dangers of certain aspects of social media exposure. He reiterated that the institution’s certification process upon graduation would prioritize both academic achievement and character development.
Despite this, the Vice Chancellor highlighted the university’s provision of crucial municipal services and state-of-the-art ICT facilities aimed at boosting student performance. He also warned that any student found violating internal regulations would be subject to appropriate disciplinary action.
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He stated, “As pioneer students, I enjoin you to be law-abiding as the Nigerian British University has zero tolerance for cultism, examination misconduct, unruly behaviours and other forms of anti-social vices, because at the end, the certificate issued will be based on character and learning, with character preceding learning.
“I admonish you to use the internet wisely, desist from inordinate use of social media, as the university strives to provide essential municipal services, ICT infrastructure and recreational facilities that will motivate you to perform optimally and give you exquisite learning experience.
“I urge you to make the best of this opportunity and associate yourselves with groups that support your academic, social, professional and spiritual wellbeing.
“Our pioneer students come from diverse social backgrounds and with varying degrees of educational experiences. You have shown great promise and potential, and you represent our hope for the future. We are honoured to have you in our midst as part of the NBU community.
“As you approach this journey with utmost dedication and commitment, I implore you to keep an open mind, be willing to embrace new perspectives and step out of your comfort zones. I urge you to imbibe the culture of collaboration, mutual respect and continuous learning.”
He stressed the importance of dedication and industriousness as the fundamental ingredients for achieving success in academic pursuits and various realms of human achievement.
The Vice-Chancellor highlighted the unique cultural fabric within academia, marked by its sense of structure, curiosity, and discourse, all pivotal in molding students into distinguished representatives of their educational institution.