The Federal University of Environment and Technology, Koroma/Saakpenwa in Tai Local Government Area of Rivers State, has stated that any form of student exploitation, including extortion and sex-for-grades, will not be tolerated.

The warning was issued by the Pro-Chancellor, Prof. Don Baridam, during the university’s maiden matriculation ceremony and founders’ day lecture, on Wednesday.

Baridam emphasised that as a new citadel of learning, the university’s image is paramount.

He warned that any lecturer or non-teaching staff involved in acts capable of tarnishing FUET’s reputation would face dismissal.

He urged staff to treat undergraduates as their own children and to guide them through their academic pursuits, cautioning against the sale of handouts.

“To the lecturers and non-teaching staff: I advise you to take these pioneer students as your own children and guide them to succeed in their career choices. You must refrain from extortion, the sale of handouts, and demanding sexual gratification.

“Lecturers who are not visible on Google Scholar or ResearchGate, and local scholars who do not publish indexed articles, will not be tolerated in this University, certainly not under my watch as Chairman of Council. The ball is now in your court,” the Pro-Chancellor stated.

While noting that matriculation marks the beginning of a new chapter in students’ academic and personal development, Baridam congratulated the pioneer students for overcoming the hurdles to gain admission to FUET.

He added, “You are not only here to acquire knowledge but also to build your character and identity, and to prepare yourselves for responsible leadership roles in a society that expects much from you.

“I welcome you to this new academic family, where students and lecturers are united in their quest for specialised knowledge that will transform society for the better.”

In his address titled ‘Trailblazers and Pace-Setters’, the pioneer Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Chinedu Mmom, said a total of 1,246 students matriculated and have completed registration formalities.

Mmom confirmed that academic activities have commenced across the university’s six faculties: Agriculture, Allied Health Sciences, Engineering and Technology, Environmental Sciences, Natural and Applied Sciences, and Management Technology.

He stated, “I am confident that the pioneer students we are matriculating today will embrace the University’s goals and aspirations and intentionally contribute to its continued growth and development.

“As students of the Federal University of Environment and Technology, you are uniquely positioned to tackle some of the most pressing challenges of our time, including climate change, resource depletion, and sustainable development.”

Mmom added, “This auspicious event marks a defining moment in the lives of each matriculant, and for this University, which occupies a special place in the educational, social, and developmental history of Ogoni land, Rivers State, Nigeria, and beyond.”

He urged students to avoid all forms of social vices, including cultism, exam malpractice, and indecent dressing, all of which are clearly outlined in the student handbook, warning that violators would face expulsion.

“Let me state this unequivocally: FUET will not tolerate cult-related activities, examination malpractice, sexual harassment, drug abuse, offering grades for money, sale of handouts, or unapproved books and manuals, especially through so-called Faculty or Departmental ‘Representatives’.

“Indecent dressing and other forms of misconduct listed in our rules book will also not be tolerated. I assure you that the first student found engaging in cultism in this University will be expelled with full legal backing.

“Participation in semester examinations will only be allowed if students attain at least 75 per cent class attendance and complete Continuous Assessment. This standard is non-negotiable”, the VC warned.

Media reports that highlight of the event included the unveiling of a statue of the late environmentalist and playwright, Ken Saro-Wiwa, in front of the university auditorium by the Oba of Ogba Land, His Eminence Nwachukwu Nnam-Obi.

Additionally, a Founder’s Day lecture themed ‘The Federal University of Environment and Technology of Our Dream’ was delivered by the former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Port Harcourt, Prof. Joseph Ajeinka.