The Vice Chancellor of Babcock University, Ilisan-Remo, Ogun State, Prof. Ademola Tayo, has encouraged the newly admitted students of the university to prioritise humility, academic excellence, and moral uprightness as they begin their academic journey. Tayo warned that cultism, hooliganism, and other immoral acts remain dangerous pitfalls capable of truncating their future if not avoided.

He gave the advice on Thursday during the matriculation ceremony held at the university’s amphitheatre for 3,432 undergraduate and postgraduate students. The ceremony marked one of his final official duties as Vice Chancellor before leaving office on December 1 after serving two consecutive five-year terms.

Addressing the students, Tayo applauded their decision to join Babcock University, noting that the institution offers a holistic educational experience that prioritises both intellectual and character development. He emphasised that the aim is to prepare students to become globally competitive professionals and responsible citizens.

The VC urged the new intakes to remain diligent and focused, stressing that success in higher education is the product of discipline and consistent effort. He warned them against distractions that could erode the bright future ahead of them.

In his words, “Success is never accidental. It requires discipline, diligence, humility, and reliance on God. Commit yourselves to regular attendance, timely submission of assignments, and active participation in lectures, quizzes, and examinations.”

Prof. Tayo also reiterated Babcock University’s zero-tolerance policy for cultism, examination malpractice, hooliganism, corruption, and all forms of indiscipline. He appealed to parents and guardians to work closely with the university to ensure a safe, secure, and peaceful learning environment for all students.

He encouraged the students to cultivate respect for their lecturers and fellow students and to adhere to the institution’s strict standards on decent dressing and moral behaviour. He reminded them that Babcock, a Seventh-day Adventist institution, is built on the pillars of love, integrity, accountability, and academic excellence.

The outgoing VC urged the matriculants to seize the numerous opportunities available within the institution, including leadership development, research, spiritual growth, and personal development programmes. He encouraged them to demonstrate the qualities expected of Babcock University ambassadors.

Tayo assured the students that their training at the university would equip them with confidence, resilience, and moral clarity to thrive in a rapidly changing world. He noted that economic uncertainties, moral challenges, and technological disruptions pose new demands, but the university’s academic and spiritual foundation would prepare them to rise as innovators and leaders.

While urging them not to yield to failure when challenges arise, Tayo encouraged the students to remain focused on fulfilling what he described as “the highest and most truthful expression of God’s purpose” for their lives. He noted that resilience and determination would be crucial throughout their academic journey.

Highlighting the university’s continuous efforts to enhance academic delivery, Tayo said Babcock University has made significant investments in infrastructure, advanced technology, and highly qualified personnel to meet modern educational standards. He explained that the university’s ICT systems have been strengthened to ensure seamless learning.

According to him, the institution boasts a modern data centre, resilient energy systems, smart classrooms, digital learning tools, and an IPTV platform designed to improve the student learning experience and ensure they remain globally competitive in the digital era.

Tayo’s caution comes at a time when concerns about vices in Nigerian universities continue to rise. Cultism, drug abuse, examination malpractice, and sexual harassment remain persistent challenges that threaten student safety and campus stability. Other reported issues include indecent dressing, cybercrime, and criminal activities such as robbery and thuggery.