EDUCATION

What to Expect as a Fresher in Nigerian Polytechnics—The Shocking Truth No One Tells You

Stepping into a Nigerian polytechnic as a fresher is like entering a whole new world—exciting, overwhelming, and sometimes downright confusing. You’ve heard the stories, seen the social media posts, and maybe even gotten advice from older students. But trust me, there are things no one tells you until you experience them yourself.

From unexpected campus culture shocks to the real struggle of balancing academics and social life, your first year will be nothing like you imagined. Will the lecturers be friendly or strict? How do you survive the dreaded first-semester exams? And what’s the deal with “school politics” and hostel life?

In this article, I’ll uncover the unfiltered reality of being a fresher in a Nigerian polytechnic—the good, the bad, and the totally unexpected. Buckle up because your journey is about to begin!

1. You Will Meet People from Different Religions and Cultural Backgrounds

As a fresher, do not be surprised to see students from different cultures, religions, and backgrounds with modes of dressing that contradict yours. This is normal, as polytechnics bring together people from diverse family backgrounds. So, if you find yourself living with someone from another religion or region, do not see them as a threat. Instead, learn to relate with them and be friendly.

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2. Strict Lecturers

Some lecturers are very strict, and many students often mistake this for wickedness. You will meet different types of lecturers—some friendly, others strict. Some may seem wicked, but don’t worry; it’s normal. Just stick to their rules, and you won’t have any issues with them.

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3. Cost of Transportation

As a fresher, one of the challenges you will face is transportation to and from the polytechnic. If you know you are not financially capable of handling the cost, consider seeking accommodation in the school hostels or renting off-campus housing close to the polytechnic. This will help you save money and reduce the financial burden on you or your sponsors.

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4. Expect Sapa

Sapa is another word for being broke. Some students call it “Igbeyin poly,” meaning a situation where students are broke and hungry. Many Nigerian students experience sapa towards the end of the semester or during exams. So, as a fresher, try to manage your food and spend wisely to avoid being stranded.

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5. Late Registration Attracts Penalties

In Nigerian polytechnics, late registration always attracts a fine. Some schools may charge ₦10,000 for late registration. To avoid unnecessary expenses, ensure you complete your registration on time and submit all necessary documents.

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6. Academic Progression

Polytechnic education has many benefits, one of which is “academic progression.” As a National Diploma (ND) student, you can cross over to a university with your ND result and gain admission into the 200 level, while Higher National Diploma (HND) holders can be admitted into the 300 level. If you plan to gain direct entry into a Nigerian university, study hard to attain a good grade, such as Upper Credit or Distinction, to make the process easier.

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7. Money for Marks

Some lecturers may demand money in exchange for grades. While this is a corrupt practice and illegal, you may encounter it. If you know you performed well in an exam, you don’t need to bribe any lecturer to pass. However, in situations where a lecturer mandates payment to pass a course, well… sometimes, you may have to “give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar” for the “Pharaoh lecturer” to let you go.

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8. Compulsory Handouts and Textbooks

Another thing to expect as a fresher is mandatory textbooks and handouts. If a lecturer says, “My textbook isn’t compulsory but mandatory,” he is indirectly telling you that buying it is necessary. There may even be marks attached to it. So, the ball is in your court.

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9. Cult Group Advances

Cultists exist in every institution, and some may try to recruit you, promising protection. Do not join them. Instead, ghost them and lay low. Avoid bad company, as they can influence you negatively and drag you into illegal activities.

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10. Internet Connection Is Important

As a student, try not to run out of data because your course rep or lecturers may drop important information online. Missing such updates isn’t good. Join your school’s and department’s social media groups to stay informed. Some lecturers even conduct tests and assignments online, so having internet access ensures you don’t miss out.

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11. School Fees

Nigerian polytechnics do not tolerate fee defaulters, especially during exams. Ensure you pay your school fees as soon as possible. Without proof of payment, you won’t be allowed to write exams, and failure to do so means voluntary withdrawal.

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12. Security Harassment

To avoid harassment from school security, always dress decently and abide by the institution’s rules and regulations. Many students complain of constant harassment by security personnel, but if you follow the rules, you won’t have issues.

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13. You Are Not a Student Yet

Surprised? Well, it’s true! The one thing that officially confirms you as a bona fide polytechnic student is your first-semester result. Don’t get carried away—focus on achieving a good CGPA. Poor academic performance can lead to expulsion. You wouldn’t want to waste your parents’ investment, would you?

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14. Expect Peer Pressure

Peer pressure is when you are influenced by other people (your course mates) to act in a certain way. If you’re with friends who are doing something that you typically would not do and they convince you to do what they are doing, that is an example of peer pressure. Some habits you may be pressured into include indecent dressing, fraud (yahoo), hookups, or extorting your parents. No matter the peer pressure, remember who you are and never be afraid of being different. Being different is what makes you unique.

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15. Academic Frustration

At some point, you may feel like giving up due to stress from assignments, practicals, and registrations. This frustration is normal. However, it shouldn’t make you quit. If you feel overwhelmed, take a break, get fresh air, and rest. Remember, winners never quit, and quitters never win.

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16. Sex for Grades

Some lecturers may demand sex in exchange for grades, threatening to fail you if you refuse. These are just empty threats meant to scare you. If you pass their exams, they cannot fail you. Just study hard, do your best, and let success be your response.

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17. Freshers’ Party

The freshers’ party is a social event organized by the student union, department, faculty, or social groups to welcome new ND and HND students. It’s a fun way to familiarize yourself with campus life, showcase your talents, and make new friends.

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18. After-Exam Party

The after-exam party is held at the end of the semester when students celebrate the completion of their final papers before traveling home for the break.

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19. Exam Prayer

Exam prayer sessions are organized by fellowships and religious groups to pray for students’ success. These sessions may take place before or after exams.

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20. Tutorials

Tutorials provide extra help for students struggling with lectures. If you find a lecturer’s teaching method difficult to understand, tutorials can make a huge difference. Many student associations offer free tutorials, so take advantage of them.

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21. Relationships

As a fresher, you might feel pressured to enter a relationship, but relationships can be a major distraction, especially for female students. Think carefully about whether you need one now or later. If you do enter a relationship, don’t forget your primary assignment—your studies.

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22. Side Hustle

Depending solely on your parents for money can be challenging. Consider picking up a side hustle that won’t interfere with your studies. It will help you manage financial responsibilities like registration fees, assignments, projects, textbooks, and handouts.

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23. Carryover

Carryover is one of the scariest words you’ll hear as a student. It simply means failing a course and having to retake it in the next academic session. In Nigerian polytechnics, failing a course isn’t the end of the world, but it can delay your graduation if not managed properly. To avoid carryovers, take your studies seriously from day one. Attend lectures, do assignments, and prepare well for exams. If you find a course difficult, seek help from tutorials or senior students. Remember, prevention is better than cure—passing once is better than carrying it over!