Fresh students of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko (AAUA), Ondo State, have been charged to strictly adhere to the institution’s rules and regulations, maintain high moral standards, and brace up for rigorous academic engagement.
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Olugbenga Ige, gave the charge during the Matriculation Ceremony for the 2025/2026 academic session held on Thursday, January 29, 2026.
Addressing the gathering, Prof. Ige said the ceremony formally inducted about 8,000 new students into the university community, describing them as the most qualified candidates selected from over 18,000 applicants.
He noted that the selection process underscored the university’s unwavering commitment to merit and excellence.
“This University does not lower its standards to fill its halls; it raises individuals to meet its standards,” the Vice-Chancellor declared.
Prof. Ige reiterated the institution’s zero-tolerance policy toward social vices, warning that acts such as examination malpractice, indecent dressing, cultism, rape, and robbery would attract severe sanctions.
“This University has zero tolerance for all forms of social vices. Any student caught engaging in such acts will be summarily expelled,” he said.
He emphasized that admission into AAUA was a privilege that came with responsibility, adding that the university’s mission was anchored on what he described as an “unshakable tripod of Academic Excellence, Moral Uprightness, and Service to Humanity.”
“Shun intellectual laziness and the corrosive plague of examination malpractice. Your greatest asset here is your integrity,” Prof. Ige advised. “We expect and will enforce decent dressing, mutual respect, and strict compliance with our moral codes. You are now ambassadors of your families and this University.”
The Vice-Chancellor also encouraged the students to deploy their education as a tool for societal development and problem-solving.
Acknowledging the pressures associated with university life, Prof. Ige assured the students of the availability of support systems, including academic advisers and the Counselling and Human Development Centre.
“Do not struggle in silence. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness,” he said.
He concluded by urging the students to see the matriculation ceremony as the beginning of a transformative journey, charging them to make meaningful contributions to society.
“See this Matriculation not as an end, but as a glorious beginning. The world is waiting for the unique contribution that only you—refined in the crucible of AAUA—can offer,” he said.
Earlier, the Registrar, Mr. Olugbenga Arajulu, administered the Matriculation Oath, during which the students pledged to abide by the university’s regulations and uphold its image.
The ceremony was attended by principal officers of the university, staff, parents, guardians, and other well-wishers.
