By Sam Tyav, Makurdi
Benue State Polytechnic, Ugbokolo, has matriculated 1,744 students into the institution for the 2025/2026 academic session.
The number is part of the 2580 who applied for admission into the institution.
Performing the ceremony, Rector of the Polytechnic, Dr. Henry Ojobo described the event as a defining moment which marks the students’ official entry into the academic community of the polytechnic.
He disclosed that the successful 1,744 offered admission were on merit after a rigorous screening process, emphasizing that by taking the matriculation oath, the students had entered into a binding commitment with the institution and gaining not just the rights and privileges, but also responsibilities capable of shaping their future.
Dr. Ojobo charged the students to adopt the right mindset from the very beginning, stressing that success in the polytechnic would depend largely on their discipline, focus, and self-belief.
The Rector tasked them to “choose to believe in your capacity to excel. This journey rewards those who are disciplined, purposeful, and consistent.”
According to Ojobo, the institution maintains high academic standards and urged the students to give their best in lectures, assignments, and examinations.
He disclosed that the polytechnic has invested in laboratories, ICT facilities, a well-equipped library, and qualified lecturers, pointing out, however, that these resources only benefit students who use them consistently.
He advised the new students to be serious with their studies insisting that preparation is not something reserved for examination periods, but a daily commitment.
The Rector cautioned that certificates alone were no longer enough but the skills behind that certificate would determine one’s relevance in society.
”Every practical session and industrial training is an opportunity to build competence, not just to fulfil a requirement,” Dr. Ojobo stressed.
He warned against cultism and all other forms of misconduct, describing them as destructive paths with no place in the institution, but urged the new students to uphold dignity in their appearance and behavior, and to be intentional about the company they keep.
The Rector assured the students of the institution’s support systems, including the Student Affairs Division, Guidance and Counselling Unit, Health Services, and accessible academic staff and encouraged them to seek help when needed.
Ojobo encouraged the new students to remain focused, purposeful, and grounded in values, noting that the future of Benue State and Nigeria rests on young people who are well-trained, principled, and driven.
The ceremony marked the official beginning of a new academic journey for the new students, as they officially became part of the polytechnic community.
*PHOTO CAPTION: A cross section of the matriculants.
