AGBOR/Nigeria: The University of Delta (UNIDEL), Agbor, has officially welcomed 4,500 new students in a vibrant matriculation ceremony, urging them to commit to a path of discipline, dedication, and hard work essential for achieving their academic ambitions.
Addressing the fresh intake at the university’s Main Campus in Agbor, Vice Chancellor Prof. Stella Chinye Chiemeke underscored that UNIDEL’s mission extends beyond academic training to nurturing character that will transform students into responsible citizens and contributors to national development.
“The vision of this University is directed towards producing graduates who are not only academically competent but also ready to tackle the challenges of national development,” Prof. Chiemeke stated. She went on to emphasise that UNIDEL is “not just a place of learning but an environment that fosters growth, discovery, and transformation.”
In a call to inspire active participation in university life, Prof. Chiemeke encouraged students to engage in extracurricular activities, join clubs and societies aligned with their passions, and pursue community service initiatives. “We are committed to fostering an environment where healthy and robust debates are encouraged, where diverse ideas can flourish, and where you can freely express your thoughts and opinions. This is a space for inquiry, for creativity, and for nurturing critical thinkers who can address the challenges of our time,” she remarked.
The Vice Chancellor issued a stern reminder about the institution’s stance against cultism, examination malpractice, and indecent dressing, stressing that these behaviours have no place at UNIDEL. “This is not a battleground for violence or secrecy but a sanctuary for knowledge and personal growth,” she affirmed.
Prof. Chiemeke also addressed parents and guardians, assuring them that their investment in their children’s education at UNIDEL would yield positive results. “For parents and guardians gathered here today, I assure you that your investment in your children will bear fruit as you witness your sons and daughters matriculate,” she said.
Delivering a matriculation lecture titled “Ten Times Better,” the guest speaker, Ven. Barr. Engr. David Osaze Egbenusi, Chaplain of All Saints Chapel, University of Benin, urged students to prioritise their studies above social engagements. He described the commitment to learning as fundamental to academic success and called on lecturers to uphold high ethical standards, guiding students with professionalism and humility.
Egbenusi further appealed to lecturers, saying, “Be professional in your teaching, humble in approach, and ensure that students understand the material.”
The event also included the formal administration of the Matriculation Oath by the Registrar, Barr. Richmond Omagbemi, and the symbolic signing of the oath by selected students. Some of the new students, including Osamor Ebubechukeu Gift from the Department of International Relations and Favour Umejiego from Health Education, expressed their excitement about studying at UNIDEL, praising the university’s facilities and commitment to providing a conducive learning environment.
Parents in attendance, such as Dr. Atu Abanye and Mrs. Afor Omafuru Edith, voiced pride in their children’s choice of UNIDEL, commending the institution’s management for establishing one of the leading educational environments in Nigeria and beyond.
