UNICAL suspends admission officer, moves against certificate racketeering

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UNICAL

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…..we know those “printing” our certificates at computer centres…VC wows crackdown

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….as 52 bag first class

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By Ike Uchechukwu, CALABAR

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The University of Calabar has taken disciplinary action against an admission officer over alleged lapses linked to over-admission, as the institution intensifies efforts to curb fake certificate racketeering and restore integrity to its academic processes.

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Vice Chancellor of the University Professor Offiong Offiong, disclosed this on Thursday during a media briefing ahead of the university’s 38th convocation ceremony.

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He said the management had reconstituted the Central Admissions Committee as part of reforms aimed at sanitising the admission system.

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The 12th Vice Chancellor explained that the officer involved is currently facing disciplinary proceedings for negligence that led to the breach.

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Professor Offiong also cautioned against pressure on the institution to admit candidates beyond approved capacity, particularly in high-demand programmes.

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“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,” he emphasised.

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On certificate fraud, the vice chancellor expressed concern over syndicates producing fake certificates using the university’s name.

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He noted that some individuals forge signatures of former registrars and vice chancellors to legitimise the documents.

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He revealed that the university is closing in on those involved, warning that anyone found culpable would face appropriate sanctions.

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“We are aware of these illegal practices, and we are working to apprehend those responsible. They will be exposed and made to face consequences,” she stated.

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The vice-chancellor also urged members of the public to report any person soliciting or offering bribes for admission or employment, stressing that such acts undermine the institution’s integrity.

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Offiong added that the university is pursuing broader reforms, including infrastructure development, digitisation of records and stricter enforcement of discipline, as part of efforts to reposition the institution for excellence.

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Speaking further, the vice chancellor revealed that in this year’s convocation, they intend to graduate 10,820 students, made up as follows: Diploma 152, First Degree 9,173, and Postgraduates 1,495. Of the 9,173

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According to him, First Degree graduates, 52 made first class, 2,390 fell into the second-class upper division, 5,819 backed second-class lower division, while 666 made third class, and 246 had pass.

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