UNICAL moves against fake certificates, suspends admission officer

The University of Calabar has taken disciplinary action against an admission officer following alleged lapses that led to over-admission, as the institution steps up efforts to tackle fake certificate racketeering and uphold the integrity of its academic processes.

Professor Offiong Offiong, Vice Chancellor of the university, disclosed this on Thursday during a media briefing ahead of the institution’s 38th convocation ceremony.

He revealed that the university management had reconstituted the Central Admissions Committee as part of reforms aimed at improving the admission system.

The 12th Vice Chancellor added that the officer in question is now facing disciplinary proceedings for negligence that contributed to the breach.

Professor Offiong also cautioned against pressure on the institution to admit candidates beyond approved capacity, particularly in high-demand programmes.

“Where there is no space in medicine and surgery, pharmacy or nursing, please do not insist. We will not compromise standards by engaging in over-admission,” he emphasised.

On certificate fraud, the vice chancellor expressed concern over syndicates producing fake certificates using the university’s name.

He noted that some individuals forge signatures of former registrars and vice chancellors to legitimise the documents.

He revealed that the university is closing in on those involved, warning that anyone found culpable would face appropriate sanctions.

“We are aware of these illegal practices, and we are working to apprehend those responsible. They will be exposed and made to face consequences,” she stated.

The vice-chancellor also urged members of the public to report any person soliciting or offering bribes for admission or employment, stressing that such acts undermine the institution’s integrity.

Offiong added that the university is pursuing broader reforms, including infrastructure development, digitisation of records and stricter enforcement of discipline, as part of efforts to reposition the institution for excellence.

Speaking further, the vice chancellor revealed that in this year’s convocation, they intend to graduate 10,820 students, made up as follows: Diploma 152, First Degree 9,173, and Postgraduates 1,495. Of the 9,173

According to him, First Degree graduates, 52 made first class, 2,390 fell into the second-class upper division, 5,819 backed second-class lower division, while 666 made third class, and 246 had pass.

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