The Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology and Environmental Sciences (FUTES), Iyin-Ekiti, Professor Gbenga Aribisala, has cautioned staff of the institution to treat students with dignity, compassion and a sense of responsibility, as the university formally begins academic activities.
Professor Aribisala gave the warning in Iyin Ekiti during an inaugural prayer session organised for newly recruited staff and students of the university, held on the temporary campus to mark the commencement of academic work.
Prayers were offered for academic excellence, national economic growth, peace, divine wisdom, unity, capacity building and protection against disunity and rebellion among staff and students.
Addressing the gathering, the Vice-Chancellor expressed delight at the successful take-off of the institution, appreciating the Federal Government, Ekiti State Government and other well-meaning Nigerians for their support.
“I am excited to see this number of people at this take-off. This university has truly begun. Coming here is a great privilege for all of us; from myself to the principal officers, staff and students. It is not by accident; God knew we would work together,” Aribisala said.
He stressed that meaningful development would only be achieved through sacrifice, dedication and a departure from old stereotypes, urging pioneer staff to go the extra mile in laying a solid foundation for the university.
“If not for people who volunteer, who sacrifice and even use their personal resources to make things happen, nothing will work. What we are seeing today is the sacrifice of people, and as pioneer staff, you must be ready to do more,” he added.
The Vice-Chancellor assured staff and students of management’s commitment to their welfare, noting that efforts were being made to ensure prompt payment of salaries and a conducive academic environment.
“I have directed that our staff should not spend months before receiving their salaries. This management is committed to making everyone comfortable,” he said.
Professor Aribisala warned that the university would not tolerate misconduct, stressing that sanctions would be applied to any staff or student whose actions could bring the institution into disrepute.
He added that he would not preside over a university characterised by conflict or lack of access to information, assuring staff and students that his office remained open for dialogue and assistance.
“Staff should treat students like their own children, guide them properly and help them do the right thing at the right time,” he stated.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Committee of Deans and Dean, Faculty of Sciences, Professor Temitope Akintayo, described the commencement of academic activities as remarkable, noting that the university achieved the feat in less than a year after its official announcement.
“With the quality of staff employed, academic excellence is achievable in no distant time. In less than two years, the visibility of this university will surpass many existing institutions,” Akintayo said.
The Registrar, Mr Oluwole Dada, advised staff and students to be meticulous with documentation and official processes, urging them to seek clarification when necessary, as the university would not be held responsible for errors arising from negligence.
