University of Delta, Agbor has matriculated 4,500 students with a call on them to exhibit the spirit of discipline, dedication, focus and hard work that would enable them to achieve their academic dreams.
The Vice Chancellor of the Institution, Prof Stella Chinye Chiemeke who made the call at the matriculation ceremony at the Main Campus, Agbor said that UNIDEL, would not only take pride in training the students in academic work, but also in character that would make them responsible citizens and contribute to national development.
She said the vision of the University was geared towards producing competent graduates capable of meeting the challenges of national development.
Prof Chiemeke added that UNIDEL was not just a place of learning but an environment that fosters growth, discovery, and transformation.
“We are committed to fostering an environment where healthy and robust debates are encouraged, where diverse ideas can flourish, and where you can freely express your thoughts and opinions.
“This is a space for inquiry, for creativity and for the nurturing of critical thinkers who can address the challenges of our time.
“As you immerse yourselves in university life, l encourage you to actively participate in extracurricular activities, join clubs, societies and organizations that resonate with your passions and interests.
“Engage in community service and outreach initiatives, for it is through these avenues that you will learn leadership, teamwork and the importance of giving back to society,” she said.
The Vice Chancellor also gave a strong warning on cultism, examination mal-practice and indecent dressing, saying that they have no place in the institution.
She noted that UNIDEL was not a battleground for violence or secrecy, but a sanctuary for knowledge and personal growth.
“For parents and guardians gathered here today, l assure you that your investment in your children will bear fruit as you witness your sons and daughters matriculate.”
In a Matriculation Lecture titled, “Ten Times Better”, the guest speaker, Ven. Barr. Engr. David Osaze Egbenusi, Chaplain, All Saint Chapel, University of Benin, urged the students to take their studies seriously in order to obtain the best results.
He said the first ingredient of being successful as students was the agreement to learn and place less emphasis on social activities. He added that students needed to engage themselves in serious reading and called on the lecturers, to impact the students positively and desist from all forms of immoral acts.
Engr. Egbenusi said they should be professional in their teaching, humble in approach and make sure that the students understood their teachings.
The colourful event featured administration of Oath by the Registrar, Barr. Richmond Omagbemi and the symbolic signing of the Matriculation Oath by some selected students.
Some of the matriculants, Osamor Ebubechukeu Gift and Favour Umejiego, of the Department of International Relations and the Department of Health Education, respectively, said they were happy to be among successful students offered admission in the great citadel of learning.
They noted that UNIDEL provided a conducive learning environment with massive learning equipment and facilities, even as they expressed their readiness to be disciplined and work towards making excellent results.
Some of the parents, Dr Atu Abanye and Mrs Afor Omafuru Edith said they were proud to bring their children to study in UNIDEL and thanked the Management for making the Institution one of the best in Nigeria and beyond.