The Rector of Federal Polytechnic Ukana, Mrs. Eduma Essien, has issued a strong and unambiguous warning to lecturers and students alike, urging students to immediately report any form of sexual pressure or harassment within the institution.
She made this declaration while addressing newly admitted students during the 12th Orientation Exercise held on Tuesday in Akwa Ibom State.
“No Gifts for Marks” — Rector Draws the Line
Mrs. Essien made it clear that the Polytechnic has zero tolerance for sexual harassment, stressing that no lecturer has the right to demand gifts, favors, or sexual relationships in exchange for grades.
“I encourage you to report any form of sexual pressure from lecturers to the management or the Anti-Sexual Harassment Unit.
This institution frowns at the exchange of gifts for marks,” she said.
She assured students that every report would be investigated and that offenders would face appropriate sanctions.
Cultism, Exam Malpractice Banned
Beyond sexual harassment, the Rector also warned students to stay away from cultism, examination malpractice, and all forms of antisocial behaviour, emphasizing that the institution is determined to produce graduates who can confidently defend their certificates anywhere in the world.
“We have zero tolerance for cultism and examination malpractice because we want to produce graduates with integrity,” she added.
No Handout Sales Allowed
Mrs. Essien also reminded students that the sale of handouts by lecturers is strictly prohibited, advising them to buy only approved textbooks in line with the Polytechnic’s academic policies.
She urged all students to familiarize themselves with the school’s rules, regulations, and disciplinary framework, warning that ignorance would not be accepted as an excuse.
Skills Over Certificates
The Rector assured students that learning under her leadership would be safe, disciplined, and student-friendly, adding that the institution places strong emphasis on practical skills acquisition.
According to her, students would graduate not just with certificates but with hands-on skills through the Polytechnic’s mandatory skills acquisition programme, preparing them for real-world challenges.
“The world is no longer just about certificates. It’s about what you can offer,” she said.
Orientation Highlights
The orientation programme also featured lectures from key management staff, including:
- The Registrar, Mr. Idhigu Lucky
- The Bursar, Sir Emmanuel Esomonu
- The Polytechnic Librarian, Mr. Ehikioya Uduebor
They addressed students on academic conduct, financial discipline, library usage, and general campus life.
