RismadarVoice Reporters
January 20, 2026
The management of the Federal Polytechnic, Ukana, in Essien Udim Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, has reiterated its commitment to enforcing zero tolerance for cultism, examination malpractice and other antisocial behaviours within the institution.
The Rector of the Polytechnic, Dr. Eduma Essien, gave the warning on Tuesday while addressing fresh students during the 12th Orientation Exercise for newly admitted students, held at the 250-capacity lecture theatre of the main campus.
Dr. Essien cautioned students against engaging in acts capable of tarnishing the image of the institution, urging them to familiarise themselves with the Polytechnic’s policies, rules and regulations. She stressed that discipline remained central to successful academic pursuits and character development.
“We have zero tolerance for cultism and examination malpractice because we want to produce graduates who can confidently defend their certificates anywhere,” she said.
“So, I urge you to completely eschew such acts that could tarnish the reputation of the institution by abiding by the Polytechnic’s policies, rules and regulations.”
The Rector explained that students would not only graduate with academic certificates but would also acquire practical skills through the institution’s mandatory skills acquisition programme, noting that such skills would be certified and internationally recognized.
“As a student of this Polytechnic, you will not only graduate with academic certificates, you will also acquire practical skills through our mandatory skills acquisition programme,” she said, adding that the modern world increasingly values competence and practical contribution to society.
Describing the institution as one committed to training students in knowledge, skills and character, Dr. Essien encouraged the new intakes to cooperate with their lecturers by diligently carrying out assignments to enhance effective teaching and learning.
She also advised students to report any form of sexual pressure or harassment by lecturers to the management or the institution’s Anti-Sexual Harassment Unit, stressing that the Polytechnic frowned at the exchange of gifts for marks.
The Rector further announced that the sale of handouts was prohibited, urging students to purchase only approved textbooks. She assured them that under her leadership, learning would continue in an environment that promotes discipline, safety and academic excellence.
