Vice-chancellor of the University of Uyo, Akwa lbom State, Nyaudoh Ndaeyo has charged over 9,339 matriculating students of the university to be security conscious avoid falling victim to any crisis that could ruin their academic career.

The VC gave the charge while addressing the 29th Matriculation ceremony of the University which was held Saturday 18 February at the Town campus of the University, saying only worthy students of the university would bag degrees.

He urged them to abide by the University's matriculation oath, and shun such vices as cultism and examination malpractices, adding that there had been cases of students who made high grades but had their certificates withheld for various reasons of misbehaviour.

He said that the university had put everything in place to ensure the students excel in their academic pursuits, and discourage their involvement in the conflict, noting that crisis would keep them longer than necessary in the institution.

According to the VC, "The management of the University of Uyo maintains an open door policy in the sense that it is prepared to listen and dialogue on all issues affecting you and your academics.

"For such purposes, there is an established line of communication with the administration as you must have been informed during your orientation. All problems can be resolved amicably without resulting to in conflict.

"Academic work requires peace and order. A crisis leads to loss of property, time and even life; a crisis may keep you on the programme longer than necessary. So be mindful of what you do.

"I urge you therefore to make the best use of this golden opportunity by spending your time wisely and making your academic endeavour your focus. The degrees of the University of Uyo is only awarded to deserving students who are found to be worthy in character and learning.

"What this means is that, in addition to achieving academic excellence, you must exhibit exemplary character that befits your new status in life. Remember, you will be awarded degrees based on character and learning.

There have been cases of students who make excellent grades in their academics but who have had their certificates withheld for various reasons of misbehaviour. It is in your own best interest to be security conscious and shun all activities that would be detrimental to your stay in this university as a student, for instance avoid cultism and examination misconduct.

The University of Uyo as a brand has a stringent policy for fraudulent behaviour. Please note that all documents and presentations you have made during the screening exercise for your admission are the same documents that would be used to Screen you for graduation.

Therefore, any attempt to alter anything in them will have criminal implications and would be considered as a breach of today's matriculation oath."

A total of 9,339 students comprising 8,171 undergraduates and 1,168 postgraduate students took the institution's matriculation oath.