Federal Polytechnic Ukana Rector Urges Students to Report Sexual Harassment, Warns Against Exam Malpractice and Cultism

The Rector of the Federal Polytechnic Ukana, Akwa Ibom State, Mrs. Eduma Essien, has called on students of the institution to report any form of sexual pressure or harassment by lecturers to the management or the Polytechnic’s Anti-Sexual Harassment Unit for prompt investigation and appropriate disciplinary action.

Mrs. Essien made this known while addressing newly admitted students during the institution’s 12th orientation exercise held on Tuesday. She emphasized that the Polytechnic maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward sexual harassment and unethical academic practices, stressing that the exchange of gifts or favors for marks is strictly prohibited.

The Rector also cautioned students against examination malpractice, cultism, and all forms of antisocial behaviour, noting that such actions undermine academic integrity and the reputation of the institution. She urged students to familiarize themselves with the Polytechnic’s rules, policies, and regulations, describing them as essential guides for a successful academic journey.

Addressing academic conduct, Mrs. Essien stated that the sale of handouts by lecturers is not permitted in the Polytechnic, advising students to rely only on approved textbooks and learning materials. She assured students that the institution is committed to creating a learning environment that promotes discipline, safety, fairness, and academic excellence.

According to the Rector, the Polytechnic is determined to produce graduates who can confidently defend their certificates anywhere in the world. She explained that beyond academic qualifications, students would also acquire practical and employable skills through the institution’s mandatory skills acquisition programme, positioning them for relevance in today’s competitive job market.

Mrs. Essien further encouraged students to cooperate with their lecturers by attending lectures regularly, completing assignments diligently, and actively engaging in academic activities to make teaching and learning productive and rewarding.

The orientation programme featured lectures from key principal officers of the Polytechnic, including the Registrar, Mr. Idhigu Lucky, the Bursar, Sir Emmanuel Esomonu, and the Polytechnic Librarian, Mr. Ehikioya Uduebor. The sessions focused on academic regulations, financial procedures, library usage, student welfare, and institutional expectations.

The orientation exercise forms part of the Polytechnic’s efforts to uphold ethical standards, strengthen student discipline, and ensure quality education delivery, while reinforcing its commitment to producing skilled, responsible, and globally competitive graduates.