Varsity Matriculates 9,454, Pushes For Academic Excellence

University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) yesterday welcomed 9,454 new students in 11 faculties into its academic community for the 2025/26 session.

At the 24th matriculation which took place at the institution’s main campus in Calabar, the vice-chancellor Prof Francisca Bassey emphasised the institution’s commitment to excellence in learning and character.

“We  will only award degrees to students who demonstrate excellence both in learning and character and not to students who exhibit unruly behaviour”, she said.

The vice chancellor urged the students to take advantage of the Nigerian Educational Loan Fund to ease financial challenges,  appreciating  the state governor, Bassey Otu, for his unwavering support and commitment to the growth and development of the university.

She  announced that the best performing students across faculties would receive special recognition and prizes from the Office of the Vice Chancellor during the forthcoming student week.

“This reward is certain to encourage students to strive for excellence,”  she said.

The VC stressed that the university under her watch has  zero tolerance for anti-social and academic vices, including examination malpractice, drug abuse, and sexual harassment.

Bassey stressed that she and her team are eager to build a community of responsible citizens and would not tolerate any act of indiscipline and lawlessness.

She  encouraged  students to attend lectures regularly, engage with lecturers and peers, and utilize university facilities, including the library, laboratories, and ICT resources.

She averred that the university has implemented a smart campus, allowing students to access academic resources from their rooms.

She  reminded the students that “greatness is not bestowed, it is earned through hard work and discipline,” urging them to prepare diligently to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

“Go forth and make all of us who are your parents to be proud,” urging the new students to uphold the institution’s values and legacy.