The Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja on Thursday matriculated a total of 6,387 National Diploma and Higher National Diploma students 2022/2023 academic session of the institution.
Dr Salisu Ogbo the Rector of the Polytechnic, who disclosed this during the 30th matriculation ceremony of the institution, said the figure consist of 4,786 National Diploma 1 and 1,601 Higher National Diploma 1
He told the matriculants that the institution has zero tolerance for all forms of social vices, such as cultism, gun-running, examination malpractice, alcoholism, unhealthy social gatherings, cyber crimes, incitement to violence, gangsterism, misuse and distribution of school property, stealing, and indecent dressing.
The Rector warned that indiscipline, poor academic performance, unruly behaviour and insubordination are highly forbidden in the institution, stressing that the Polytechnic will not award its certificate to students who are deficient in character and in learning.
According to him “Act of cultism is completely forbidden on our campus. All the visible and invisible security architectures of the Polytechnic are placed in so many strategic places to deal with cultists and their sympathisers and sponsors.
“Therefore, students are advised to stay safe and free from all cult-related lifestyles”he warned.
Dr Ogbo reaffirmed that the Polytechnic does not tolerate any act of religious fanaticism, stressing that the ban on all tribal association on campus still stand.
“We are keen on training students that will represent the pride and good image of the institution, and I have no doubt that this current set will play a significant role.
“We will continue to work towards making the Polytechnic environment more friendly for you to learn and ensure your personal growth and development.
“We shall also continue to ensure that our graduates are responsible citizens who will contribute to the development of our dear country, Nigeria.
“Our unique programmes are intended to mould you the right way, with a positive mental attitude and skills to enable you to compete with your contemporaries in the larger world.
“Our efforts are therefore geared towards delivering high quality, enduring and independent education that will stand the test of time.
In his goodwill message, the Kogi State Commissioner for Education, Hon. Wemi Jones commended the Rector for his achievement since he emerged the Chief Executive Officer of the Polytechnic.
According to him, under the present leadership, the Polytechnic has witnessed a tremendous progress compared to what was obtainable in previous administration.
While congratulating the matriculating students, Hon. Jones said the present administration remains committed in revamping education in Kogi State.
He said Alhaji Yahaya Bello-led government is paying attention to technical and vocational education which will make positive impacts in Nigeria economy.
The Vice Chancellor, Federal University Lokoja (FUL), Professor Olayemi Akinwumi in his goodwill message, lauded the Rector for his remarkable achievements.
While reiterating his institution collaboration with the Polytechnic in achieving an enviable height, Prof Akinwunmi admonished the students to avoid undue radicalism capable of truncating their future.
The Kogi State Commissioner of Police, Hakeem Yusuf Adeshina, who was represented by an Assistant Commissioner of Police in the state, identified abuse of drugs and cultism as some of the problem security agencies are tackling in major tertiary institution in the country.
He warned that, any student caught indulging in any vices will be arrested and prosecuted accordingly.