The newly appointed Vice-Chancellor of the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT), Professor Chike Princewill Chike, has declared zero tolerance for cultism, sexual harassment, criminality and other forms of misconduct as he assumed office.
Speaking during the handover ceremony at the university’s CBN Hall, Professor Chike pledged to promote discipline, accountability and ethical leadership while restoring confidence in the institution’s administration.
He warned students and staff against actions capable of disrupting peace, academic excellence and the reputation of the university.
“If you cannot work under a clean slate, then you may have to leave,” the Vice-Chancellor said, stressing that his administration would be guided by transparency and responsibility.
Professor Chike unveiled an eight-point strategic agenda focused on academic excellence, quality assurance, research and innovation, digital transformation, institutional harmony, internationalisation, student support, financial sustainability and resource mobilisation.
He appealed to alumni, private sector organisations and other stakeholders to support the university, noting that government funding alone cannot address all the challenges facing higher education.
The Vice-Chancellor urged support for students, laboratories, research centres and centres of excellence, saying collaboration was necessary to achieve global standards.
He also challenged students and academics to pursue international recognition and demonstrate that world-class achievements, including Nobel-level accomplishments, are possible from Nigerian institutions.
Meanwhile, students expressed optimism about the new administration, calling for improvements in infrastructure, hostel facilities, learning environments and welfare services.
A 400-level Human Physiology student, Precious Timothy, appealed for the rehabilitation of classrooms, walkways and other learning facilities, while another student, Okedi, called for transparent student union elections and improved accommodation.
The Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the university’s 17th Governing Council, Senator Mao Ohuabunwa, said Professor Chike emerged through a transparent selection process involving 22 professors from Nigeria and Ghana.
Students expressed hope that the new administration would deliver practical improvements that enhance teaching, learning and campus life.
