No fewer than 7,000 students were on Friday formally admitted into The Federal Polytechnic, Ado-Ekiti for the 2025/2026 academic session, with the Rector, Engr. Dr. Temitope Alake, urging them to remain focused and embrace skill-based education.
Speaking during the matriculation ceremony held at the Atiku Abubakar Conference Hall, the Rector described the occasion as a major step in the academic journey of the new students, emphasizing discipline, dedication, and commitment to excellence.
“Matriculation is not just a ceremony; it is a commitment to uphold the academic and moral standards of this Institution,” he said.
He noted that the Polytechnic has continued to maintain its reputation as one of Nigeria’s leading centres for technological education, with all its programmes fully accredited by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE).
Addressing journalists shortly after the ceremony, Alake confirmed that about 7,000 students were admitted, describing the figure as moderate relative to the institution’s capacity.
According to him, the Polytechnic has the capacity to accommodate more students across National Diploma (ND) and Higher National Diploma (HND) programmes.
He, however, stressed the need for greater emphasis on technical and vocational education, noting that skill acquisition remains key to tackling unemployment.
“In today’s economy, it is skills, not just certificates, that will make graduates productive and self-reliant,” he said.
The Rector added that the institution is among selected polytechnics certified by the Federal Government to run skill acquisition programmes, positioning students for both employment and entrepreneurship.
Alake also issued a strong warning against cultism and other forms of indiscipline, stressing that the institution maintains zero tolerance for such activities.
He cautioned students to steer clear of examination malpractice, internet fraud, violence, and other anti-social behaviours, noting that offenders would face strict disciplinary actions.
Alake advised the newly admitted students to remain focused throughout their academic journey, warning against distractions that could affect their performance.
“Students often start strong in their first semester but lose focus later, leading to a drop in their academic performance. You must remain consistent and committed,” he said.
He further urged them to take both theoretical and practical components of their studies seriously, stressing that success in the Polytechnic requires dedication and a clear sense of purpose.
“Do not come here to waste your time. Any student who fails to make good use of this opportunity risks losing a valuable part of their life,” he added.
The Rector also expressed appreciation to parents and guardians for entrusting the institution with the education and upbringing of their children.
He assured them that the Polytechnic remains committed to providing a conducive environment for academic excellence, character development, and professional growth.
Alake further urged parents to continue offering moral support and guidance to their wards throughout their academic journey.
The Rector highlighted recent developments in the institution, including the expansion from five to eight schools, covering key areas such as Engineering, Environmental Studies, Agriculture, Sciences, Business, and ICT.
He also encouraged students to take advantage of available facilities, including digital libraries, ICT centres, health services, and skill acquisition programmes.
The Polytechnic, he said, remains committed to producing graduates who are not only academically sound but also equipped with practical skills and entrepreneurial capacity.
The Rector concluded by urging the students to be disciplined, innovative, and goal-oriented.
“Be focused, take your studies seriously, and equip yourselves with the skills needed for the future,” he said.
Some of the matriculating students expressed joy and gratitude for gaining admission into the school, describing the opportunity as a dream come true.
The students noted that the Polytechnic’s reputation for practical training and excellence would help shape them into successful professionals.
The ceremony marked the official induction of the students into the academic community of the Polytechnic, setting the stage for their pursuit of technical and professional excellence.
