Federal Polytechnic Nekede, Owerri, has confirmed arrangements for its 48th Matriculation Ceremony, officially welcoming newly admitted students for the 2025/2026 academic session into the institution.

The ceremony, announced by the Students’ Union Government (SUG), will formally induct National Diploma (ND) and Higher National Diploma (HND) students as bona fide members of the polytechnic community.

Date, Time and Venue

The event is scheduled as follows:

• Date: Thursday, 26 February 2026
  
• Time: 9:00 a.m. prompt
  
• Venue: School Auditorium, Main Campus
  

The academic procession, led by the Rector and members of the Academic Board, will commence at exactly 9:00 a.m. All matriculating students are required to be seated by 8:30 a.m. to ensure an orderly start.

Importance of the Matriculation Ceremony

Matriculation marks the official transition from admission status to full studentship. During the ceremony, students will take the matriculation oath, affirming their commitment to:

• Academic integrity
  
• Institutional regulations
  
• Responsible conduct within and outside campus
  

Only students who take the oath and sign the matriculation register will be fully recognized by the institution and eligible for academic privileges, including participation in examinations and issuance of official student identification.

Academic Gown: Collection and Return Guidelines

Participation in the ceremony requires approved academic regalia. Students are expected to follow these procedures:

Payment Confirmation:
Evidence of matriculation fee payment (usually processed through Remita alongside other fees) must be presented before gown collection.

Collection Point:
Gowns will be distributed through respective School Officers at faculty secretariats.

Return Policy:

• Gowns must be returned within 24–48 hours after the ceremony.
  
• Late returns may attract penalties.
  
• Lost gowns will require full replacement payment.
  

Students are advised to handle the regalia responsibly to avoid unnecessary charges.

Academic and Legal Implications of the Oath

The matriculation oath is not ceremonial alone; it establishes a formal agreement between students and the institution. By signing the matriculation register, students:

• Gain full studentship rights
  
• Accept adherence to disciplinary regulations
  
• Commit to avoiding misconduct such as cultism, examination malpractice, and other violations
  

Students are encouraged to verify the correct spelling and order of their names before signing, as the matriculation register serves as an official academic record referenced at graduation.

Faculty Participation and Coordination

Federal Polytechnic Nekede comprises several academic schools, including:

• School of Engineering Technology (SET)
  
• School of Industrial and Applied Science (SIAS)
  
• School of Business Management Technology (SBMT)
  
• School of Information and Communication Technology (SICT)
  

Deans and Heads of Departments will participate in the ceremony, with some schools organizing brief receptions afterward to welcome their new students.

Invitation to the Public

The institution has invited parents, guardians, and well-wishers to attend the ceremony. Given expectations of a large turnout, attendees are advised to cooperate fully with campus security and event officials to maintain decorum.

The 48th Matriculation Ceremony represents a defining moment for the new intake, the official beginning of their academic and professional journey at Nekede Poly.