The University of Calabar has taken disciplinary action against an admission officer following alleged lapses linked to over-admission, as the institution intensifies efforts to curb fake certificate racketeering and restore integrity to its academic processes.
The development was disclosed on Thursday by the Vice Chancellor, Professor Offiong Offiong, during a media briefing ahead of the university’s 38th convocation ceremony. He confirmed that the Central Admissions Committee has been reconstituted as part of reforms aimed at sanitising the admission system.
The Vice Chancellor explained that the officer involved is currently facing disciplinary proceedings for negligence that led to the breach. He further cautioned against pressure on the institution to admit candidates beyond approved capacity, particularly in high-demand programmes.
“Where there is no space in medicine and surgery, pharmacy, or nursing, please do not insist. We will not compromise standards by engaging in over-admission,” Professor Offiong emphasised.
On the issue of certificate fraud, he expressed concern over syndicates producing fake certificates using the university’s name, sometimes forging signatures of former registrars and vice chancellors to legitimise the documents.
“We are aware of these illegal practices, and we are working to apprehend those responsible. They will be exposed and made to face consequences,” he stated.
The Vice Chancellor also urged the public to report anyone soliciting or offering bribes for admission or employment, stressing that such acts undermine the institution’s integrity.
Professor Offiong highlighted broader reforms at the university, including infrastructure development, digitisation of records, and stricter enforcement of discipline, aimed at repositioning the institution for excellence.
Speaking on this year’s convocation, he revealed that the university plans to graduate 10,820 students, comprising 152 diploma holders, 9,173 first-degree graduates, and 1,495 postgraduate students. Among first-degree graduates, 52 achieved first class, 2,390 second-class upper, 5,819 second-class lower, 666 third class, and 246 obtained pass degrees.
ELIJAH ADEYEMI
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