Beware of social media addiction, NBU vice-chancellor warns students
Vice Chancellor of Nigeria British University, Asa, Abia State, Prof. Hakeem Fawehinmi, has advised students of the institution against excessive use of social media in order not to endanger their lives.
Fawehinmi also warned that there is no room for cultism, examination malpractices and other anti-social vices in the institution.
The VC handed down the warning in Asa, a border community between Abia and Rivers states, while delivering his address at the first matriculation ceremony of the university, where 65 new intakes were matriculated.
He said while the internet is good, students should be careful with certain aspects of the social media they expose themselves to, insisting that issuance of the institution’s certificates to students upon graduation will be based on character and learning.
The VC, however, said the institution provides essential municipal services and ICT facilities that will enhance the students’ performances, saying that any student found flouting extant in-house rules will face prescribed punishment.
He stated, “As pioneer students, I enjoin you to be law-abiding as the Nigerian British University has zero tolerance for cultism, examination misconduct, unruly behaviours and other forms of anti-social vices, because at the end, the certificate issued will be based on character and learning, with character preceding learning.
“I admonish you to use the internet wisely, desist from inordinate use of social media, as the university strives to provide essential municipal services, ICT infrastructure and recreational facilities that will motivate you to perform optimally and give you exquisite learning experience.
“I urge you to make the best of this opportunity and associate yourselves with groups that support your academic, social, professional and spiritual wellbeing.
“Our pioneer students come from diverse social backgrounds and with varying degrees of educational experiences. You have shown great promise and potential, and you represent our hope for the future. We are honoured to have you in our midst as part of the NBU community.
“As you approach this journey with utmost dedication and commitment, I implore you to keep an open mind, be willing to embrace new perspectives and step out of your comfort zones. I urge you to imbibe the culture of collaboration, mutual respect and continuous learning.”
He explained that success in academics and other spheres of human endeavour comes only through diligence and hard work.
The VC emphasized that the academic environment has a peculiar culture characterized by orderliness, inquisitiveness and debate, all of which he said will play an important role in equipping the students to be worthy ambassadors of their citadel of learning.
