The Federal College of Education (Technical), Isu, Onicha local government area of Ebonyi state Wednesday held its third matriculation ceremony, marking another milestone in its journey to becoming a full-fledged academic institution barely four years after its establishment..

Speaking at the event, the Provost prof Okey Reuben Okechukwu expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the college and to the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Maruf, for his continued support. He also appreciated the Governor of Ebonyi State for his friendship with the institution, despite his unavoidable absence at the event. Warm greetings were also extended to the Registrar of JAMB, the Executive Secretary of NCCE, and other stakeholders.

Addressing the guests, the Provost praised the media for their continuous support and described the ceremony as a “firm foot grip” in the college’s mission to nurture a new academic institution in a rural environment..

He announced that 48 students were admitted in the last session, a feat he described as remarkable for a young college. He expressed optimism that the number would increase in the new academic session..

Welcoming the newly matriculated students, he urged them to take full advantage of the opportunities before them, stressing the importance of discipline, hard work, and focus. Quoting James Madison and referencing Islamic teachings, he highlighted the centrality of knowledge in shaping individuals and societies.

The provost emphasized that the college is science and technology-oriented, designed to produce qualified teachers, technicians, and skilled professionals in various fields including engineering, agriculture, fine and applied arts, geophysics, technical education, metalwork and woodwork.

He reiterated that the school operates tuition-free, with modern academic and social facilities. He also encouraged students to take advantage of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) introduced by President Tinubu’s administration to support access to higher education, noting that some students of the college have already benefited. He further announced free hostel accommodation for the fresh students.

The Provost cautioned students to shun social vices such as exam malpractice, cultism, indecent dressing, hooliganism, prostitution, vandalism and other acts capable of jeopardizing their studies. He stressed that the college maintains strict rules, and violations could lead to expulsion or staff dismissal.

He called on staff and students to promote the college positively, emphasizing that its growth is a collective responsibility.

The Provost also announced that admission for the 2025/2026 academic session is open to candidates who scored 100 and above in JAMB, while those without JAMB results may visit the admissions office for guidance on pre-NCE options.

He urged the public to report any admission infractions directly to his office for immediate action.

The event ended with appreciation to invited guests, staff, students, security agencies, and the media for their consistent support.

Some of the new students Ogbonnia Cynthia Nkechi of business education , Igwe Collins, and Nwaobashi kelechukwu expressed joy for gaining admission into the school and promised to remain good ambassadors of the school..

Nkechinyere Ewa