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๐Ÿ‡ณ๐Ÿ‡ฌ Nigeria /Culture & Society

UNIPORT VC Vows Zero Tolerance for Cultism, Harassment

From ThisDay · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • The new Vice-Chancellor of the University of Port Harcourt, Prof. Chike Princewill Chike, has declared zero tolerance for cultism, sexual harassment, and other misconduct.
  • He outlined an eight-point strategic agenda focusing on academic excellence, research, digital transformation, and financial sustainability.
  • Chike emphasized the need for collaboration with stakeholders and the private sector to support the university's funding needs.

The University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) has a new Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Chike Princewill Chike, who has vowed to tackle cultism, sexual harassment, and other forms of misconduct head-on. During his inaugural address, Chike declared a zero-tolerance policy for activities that tarnish the university's image and pledged to foster discipline, integrity, and academic excellence.

Chike warned both students and staff against engaging in unethical practices, including fraud and bribery, urging them to embrace integrity or face consequences. He also called on parents and guardians to guide their children away from activities that could jeopardize their futures. His administration will be built on accountability and ethical leadership, with a clear message: "If you cannot work under a clean slate, then you may have to leave."

The council members are watching us. If you cannot work under a clean slate, then you may have to leave.

โ€” Prof. Chike Princewill ChikeThe new Vice-Chancellor declared his administration's stance on ethical conduct and accountability.

The new VC unveiled an ambitious eight-point strategic agenda. This plan prioritizes academic excellence and quality assurance, research and innovation, digital transformation, institutional harmony, internationalization, student support, financial sustainability, and resource mobilization. He stressed that government funding alone is insufficient for tertiary education, advocating for stronger partnerships with stakeholders, alumni, and the private sector.

"The federal government cannot do it alone. Our institution needs support. Help pay the school fees of some students. Our laboratories need support. Our research centres need support. Our centres of excellence need support," Chike stated, highlighting the critical need for external assistance. As a proud alumnus, he challenged the university community to aim for global achievements, including Nobel Prizes, asserting that world-class success is achievable within Nigeria. He also expressed gratitude for his appointment and called for unity among former contestants to advance the university's vision.

The federal government cannot do it alone. Our institution needs support. Help pay the school fees of some students. Our laboratories need support. Our research centres need support. Our centres of excellence need support.

โ€” Prof. Chike Princewill ChikeThe VC appealed for external funding and collaboration to support the university's operations and development.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by ThisDay in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.