Ibadan poly decries thousands of uncollected certificates, proposes fine

The Rector of The Polytechnic, Ibadan, Dr. Taiwo Lasisi, has revealed that thousands of certificates belonging to past graduates remain uncollected, prompting the institution to consider imposing fines on those who fail to retrieve their certificates.

Lasisi made this known at the institution’s CIBN Hall on Thursday during a pre-graduation press conference ahead of the 39th graduation ceremony.

He announced that the Visitor to the institution and Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, will be the Special Guest of Honour at the convocation, which is scheduled for Friday, February 14, 2025, at the 1,000-Seater Hall along the North/South Road.

“It may interest you that the certificates of all the graduands have been signed and are ready for collection immediately after the graduation,” Lasisi said. “I also want to disclose that thousands of certificates of previous graduates are waiting for collection. The institution may have to introduce fines for those who have not come to collect their certificates.”

The rector noted that, unlike the previous convocation where the 35th, 36th, 37th, and 38th graduation ceremonies were combined, this year’s event will be exclusively for the 2023/24 graduands, as the institution currently has no backlog of graduates.

The rector also highlighted improvements in academic activities and stricter enforcement of discipline.

He revealed that some students admitted alongside the graduating class had been dismissed due to academic incompetence or misconduct, after facing the institution’s Students’ Disciplinary Committee.

He assured that internal and external security agencies, including the police and DSS, will be present to ensure a secure and peaceful convocation.

“The Polytechnic Ibadan will continue to be one of the foremost and leading institutions across the country,” he said, emphasising the school’s commitment to maintaining its reputation.

Lasisi expressed appreciation to Governor Makinde for prioritising education in Oyo State and for his support in the accreditation, re-accreditation, and introduction of new programs at the institution.

He pledged the polytechnic’s continued support for the governor and his administration.

Present at the briefing were Deputy Rector, Mrs. Olaide Salawu; Registrar, Mr. Joseph Ogunjimi; ASUU Chairman, Dr. Kola Lawal; Medical Director, Dr. Ogunsina, and other key officials.