The Rector of Moshood Abiola Polytechnic, Arc. Dr. Babatunde Adekoyejo Jolaoso, has cautioned newly admitted students of the institution to shun cultism, examination malpractice, drug abuse and other social vices capable of jeopardising their academic future.
Jolaoso gave the warning on Wednesday during the 2025/2026 matriculation ceremony of the institution in Abeokuta, Ogun State, where he formally admitted fresh students into the polytechnic.
Describing matriculation as more than a ceremonial exercise, the rector said it marked a “solemn academic tradition” that binds students to the rules and values of the institution.
“Matriculation is more than a ceremonial exercise. It is a solemn academic tradition through which you publicly pledge to abide by the rules and regulations of the Polytechnic while committing yourselves to the pursuit of knowledge, character, discipline, and responsible citizenship,” he said.
He urged the students to focus on building competence and integrity, stressing that admission into the institution was not merely for obtaining certificates but for personal and professional development.
“Your admission… is not merely an opportunity to obtain a certificate; it is an invitation to develop competence, creativity, innovation, and integrity,” he added.
The rector maintained that the institution operates zero tolerance for misconduct, warning that any student found culpable would face disciplinary action.
“You must avoid all forms of social vices… Cultism, examination malpractice, drug abuse, cybercrime, and other acts of indiscipline have no place in this institution,” he said.
Jolaoso also advised students to be deliberate in their choices and associations, urging them to channel complaints through appropriate institutional channels.
“Your primary purpose on this campus is to earn a worthy certificate in character and in learning,” he added.
In his maiden matriculation lecture titled “Building a Solid Foundation: The Synergy of Character and Competence,” a distinguished alumnus and former National President of the MAPOLY Alumni Association, Ven. Samson Kunle Popoola, charged students to combine moral uprightness with professional skills.
Popoola, who reflected on his student experience decades ago, said success in life is anchored on the twin pillars of character and competence.
“Character is who you are when nobody is watching… Employers may hire you for competence, but they will only retain you because of character,” he said.
He warned students against academic dishonesty, urging them to uphold integrity at all times.
“Do not cheat in examinations. Do not plagiarise… Your certificate will eventually speak for you, but your integrity will introduce you before the certificate arrives,” he said.
Speaking on competence, the alumnus stressed that the modern world prioritises practical skills over mere certification.
“The world we live in today is asking a critical question: ‘What can you do?’ Not just ‘What certificate do you have?’” he added.
Also speaking, the Secretary of the Governing Council, Dr. Rabiu Kusimo, who represented the Chairman, Prof. Kamaldeen Balogun, said the council remained committed to strengthening academic standards and infrastructure in the institution.
He urged students to embrace discipline and innovation in the face of evolving global demands.
“The fourth industrial revolution is already here and it demands more than just passing examinations. It demands innovation, character and mastery of knowledge and tools,” Kusimo said.
He further warned that “a brilliant mind without discipline is a liability,” reiterating the need for students to avoid misconduct and uphold the institution’s values.
The ceremony also featured the introduction of a maiden matriculation lecture, a new initiative aimed at bridging the gap between past and present students through alumni engagement.
Management of the polytechnic assured parents and guardians of its commitment to providing an enabling environment for both academic excellence and moral development of students.
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