The Vice-Chancellor of Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin, Professor Noah Yusuf, has urged newly admitted students of the institution to stay away from social vices and concentrate on their studies in order to achieve academic excellence.

Addressing the 1,611 matriculating students during the institution’s matriculation ceremony held at its Adeta campus in Ilorin, Kwara State, Prof. Yusuf said the number marked the highest intake since the university’s establishment in January 2020.

He revealed that the new students consist of 1,302 UTME candidates, 297 Direct Entry students, and 12 Transfer students, noting that their admission was not just a privilege, but also a huge investment by their parents that must not be wasted.

“You must justify the huge money your parents have spent to get you here. This opportunity must not be abused,” he said. “We expect you to graduate in flying colours and make your families proud.”

He charged the students to uphold moral values, obey university regulations, attend lectures regularly, complete assignments promptly, and stay away from negative influences on campus.

“Always be present during bedcheck. Don’t be a night crawler,” he cautioned. “Associate with academically serious students, and not the so-called campus bad boys or girls.”

While congratulating the 30 pioneer students of the university’s newly established medical programme, the Vice-Chancellor emphasized that Al-Hikmah University prides itself on a unique blend of quality education and moral discipline rooted in Islamic values.

“Our university remains a household name because of its commitment to academic excellence and spiritual development. We have full accreditation for all 55 undergraduate programmes and professional approval for specialized courses such as Law, Medical Laboratory Science, Geological Sciences, Public Health, and Nursing,” he added.

He assured parents and guardians that their wards were in safe hands and would receive proper academic and moral guidance throughout their stay at the university.

In a lecture titled Path to a Successful Career as Undergraduate Students in an Islamic-Based University, Dr. Luqman Olayaki reminded the students of the competitive nature of university admission in Nigeria, stressing that only about one-third of applicants are eventually offered admission.

He advised the fresh students to be focused, manage their time effectively, use social media responsibly, and avoid distractions.

“Now that you’re here, you cannot afford to be complacent,” Olayaki said. “Success will not come by chance. It takes hard work, discipline, and the right attitude.”

The event marked a new beginning for the students, with university authorities charging them to make the most of the opportunity and uphold the values that make Al-Hikmah a unique citadel of learning.