By Amaechi Agbo

As the students of Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) prepare for their 2025/2026 first semester examinations which is due to start on Monday, March 2^nd, the newly admitted students have been advised to shun their social media activities and face their studies.

Registrar of the University, Mr Ambrose Ugwu handed the waning during the Orientation programme for fresh students held at the Dr Ndubuisi Mbah Multi-purpsoe Auditorium on Wednesday.

 Addressing the students on the topic: “University Academic Regulations, Registration, Deferment, Withdrawal/Change of Course”, the Registrar cautioned them against running foul of university rules, voluntary withdrawal from school without approval from the management as well as consequences of violating the rules.

Mr Ugwu who disclosed that as the Registrar of the University, he is also the Secretary to the Council and University Senate, cautioned the new students to avoid spending unnecessary time on social media and face their studies squarely.

“University is governed by rules and not sentiments. Everything we do here is procedural. As an institution, we understand that students will face challenges and that is why the first thing you do as soon as you confirm your admission is to pay the required fees and carry out your registration processes. Until you register, you are not considered a bonafide member of the university.

“Secondly, in case for any reason you want to withdraw from the university or defer your admission, inform the management via letter through your HOD and you must get approval. Always seek for advice before you take any decision regarding your admission. Cultivate good relationship with your lecturers because they are here to help you.

“Above all, ESUT is not a place for lazy students. You must take your academic activities seriously. It is time to forget Facebook and face your books” he said.

Earlier in his opening address, the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Professor Aloysius-Michaels Okolie congratulated the students for gaining admission into ESUT and urged them to make their parents proud.

TE VC advised them to shun act capable of cutting short their time in the university and advised them to “shun examination malpractice, avoid bad company and be law abiding. The university has reward for excellence and students who distinguished themselves will be rewarded,” the VC, who was represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Chike Nwoha, said.

While delivering a speech on the topic: “The Student Affairs unit and Primary Functions, Hostel Management and Life in the University”, the Dean, Student Affairs, Prof Ifeoma Okwo charged the students to make enquiries from the unit before they join any group.

Professor Okwo who emphasised that the Department of Student Affairs handles non-academic related issues as they affect students, said the unit will always be there to help them at all times. “Your welfare is our priority, when you are subjected to maltreatment by anybody, report to us. But I urge you to remain level-headed. Obey the rules and respect all the staff. Once again, congratulations and welcome to ESUT,” she said.

Speaking on “Enlightenment of Examinations Malpractice and Punishments”, Chairman, ESUT Examinations Malpractice Committee, Prof Gabriel Ugwu explained the dangers in examinations malpractice and admonished the students to avoid all forms of exam misconducts as such have corresponding consequences.

“For instance, bringing phone inside the examination hall, whether you used it or not, once you are caught, you will face two years suspension. If you are caught impersonating, it carries immediate expulsion”, he warned.

In her address, the Acting President, Students Union Government, SUG, ESUT, Comrade Chizara Nwodo, while welcoming the students to the University, warned them against carefree life on campus and urged them to be cautious.  

“University life comes with freedom, but freedom must be guided by responsibility and discipline. ESUT is a centre of intellectual engagement, not physical confrontation. Disagreements must be resolved through dialogue and proper channels.

“Violence only destroys opportunities and reputations. Bullying in any form physical -verbal, emotional, or social – will not be tolerated. No student should feel unsafe or intimidated. Strength is shown through kindness, maturity, and leadership, not through oppression.

“Always remember you are loved here. The University Management wants you to succeed. The Students’ Union Government is here to protect and represent you. Your fellow students are your brothers and sisters. We are one ESUT. We are one family. And together, we will grow, achieve, and excel.”

Other speakers including the Director Medical Services, Dr Njideka Njoku ; Director, Career Services, Prof Uzoamaka Okafor, Director of Sports, Mr Ogbodo Moses, and ESUT Chief security officer, Mr Thomas Okolo advised students on the need to look after their health, pursue other careers not related to their field, engage in sporting actives and be security cautious.

ESUT On Friday held her 45^th Matriculation ceremony with 8696 students being admitted into the 78 programmes in the university