Intelligence Not Enough To Make Best Graduate – Oko Poly Rector Tells Matriculants

Chinedum Treasure

Federal Polytechnics Oko, Anambra state has warned students of the institution to shun cultism and anti-social behaviour, urging them to stay focused on their academic and personal development.

Rector, Dr Chioma Awuzie who gave the assurance on Friday at the 41st Matriculation Ceremony of the institution, said intelligence was not enough to make best graduate, but true excellence attained with combination of intelligence and strength of character.

She described the institution as a citadel of academic excellence, innovation, and industrial relevance, the rector identified Character and Learning as hallmark of true success.

She said, “Today marks the formal beginning of an exciting and transformative academic journey for our newly admitted students. You have joined a prestigious institution with a rich history of producing skilled professionals who are making remarkable contributions to national and global development.

“Our administration is dedicated to promoting excellence in education, discipline, and innovation. This commitment is driven by a 12-point agenda designed to strengthen our institution and position it as a center for technological creativity, entrepreneurship, and global competitiveness.

“While this agenda covers various aspects of institutional growth, seven key areas are particularly relevant to students: Academic reinvention and programme development; students’ welfare; discipline; anti-cultism; academic integrity; public relations and image management, and security.

“We do not only award certificates based on academic performance; we award them in both character and learning. Intelligence alone is not enough to make one the best graduate; rather, true excellence is attained when intelligence is combined with strength of character.

“The most intelligent student may not necessarily be the most successful in life. To stand out and excel beyond this institution, you must uphold integrity, discipline, and good moral conduct.

“Your education must shape not only your intellect but also your ethical values. Therefore, as you embark on this academic journey, I urge you to balance knowledge acquisition with a strong character, as these are the qualities that will distinguish you in your career and personal life.

Congratulating the matriculating students for successful gainful admission, Awuzie reminded them that matriculation ceremony was not mere fun but call to responsibility.

“Matriculation is not just a ceremony; it is a call to responsibility. Your time here will shape your future, and success requires discipline, focus, and the right choices.

“To guide you, I emphasize the following principles: shun all forms of sharp practices: uphold integrity by avoiding examination malpractice, falsification of records and academic dishonesty. Your success must be built on diligence and ethical conduct.

“Do Not Join Clandestine Organizations: Cultism and anti-social behaviour have no place in the Polytechnic. Stay focused on your academic and personal development. Instead, participate in approved student organizations such as town unions/associations, Amnesty International, the Red Cross and NFCS.

“Be Diligent in Your Studies: Attend lectures regularly, study consistently, and actively engage in academic activities. Excellence is achieved through dedication.

“Uphold Discipline and Integrity. Represent your family and community with pride. Embrace the values of hard work, humility and respect for authority.
Make Positive Contributions to Society: Engage in extracurricular activities that build leadership skills, foster creativity, and prepare you for future challenges.

“As we formally welcome you into this great institution, always remember that Federal Polytechnic Oko stands for discipline, excellence and innovation. We are committed to equipping you with the knowledge, skills and values necessary for success in your chosen careers.

“Take full advantage of this opportunity, remain focused and uphold the values of our institution,” she added.

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