Abakaliki, Nigeria – The New Vice Chancellor (VC) of the Ebonyi State University (EBSU), Abakaliki, Prof. Michael Awoke, has vowed to end the inducement for marks syndrome in the institution.
Awoke made the vow on Thursday while addressing staff and students of the university at its permanent site in Abakaliki, on his official assumption as the new helmsman.
The vice chancellor warned staff and students, saying whoever is found culpable will be rusticated after due investigation.
“The president of the students union government (SUG) should engage his constituents and inform them that the era of cash for marks is over.
“The students normally make the move and lead the unwilling staff into such temptation.
“Most of the students do not read or work hard but resort to inducement for marks which we would no longer allow.”
He noted that his administration would also take decisive action on students who expose their bodies and those seen in hotels for immoral reasons.
“You should report any lecturer luring or forcing you into these acts to the school authorities.
“Sensitisation and sanitisation would be used to fully eradicate this among other vices from the institution.”
Awoke said it was time to return the institution’s past glory and meet the mandate given to its management by its Visitor, Gov. Francis Nwifuru.
“We have to return to the days when agriculture, law and medicine held sway.
“The governor finds it disheartening that the faculty of agriculture, for instance, cannot produce maize, rice and other produce people can purchase.
“I will pay great attention to staff welfare and quarrel with the bursar if salaries are not paid by the 28th of every month,”
Awoke’s Predecessor, Prof. Chigozie Ogbu, congratulated him on his new appointment and promised to guide him in areas of interest.
“Information about the institution is contained in these handover notes and booklets as the relevant authorities would also clarify all grey areas.
“We have recorded tremendous achievements in various areas of endeavour but have serious challenges on security.”
Prof. Ike Ogba, the new Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academics, promised on behalf of other management staff, to collaborate with the new VC to attain set goals.
Awoke received the handover notes and other relevant information from his predecessor at the well-attended ceremony.
