Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU) has formally announced arrangements for its forthcoming combined convocation ceremonies, designed to honor graduates from multiple academic sessions.

According to the University Management and Senate, the decision to hold the ceremonies in batches was taken to address graduation delays experienced in previous years due to disruptions in the academic calendar. The initiative ensures that graduates from the 2018/2019 session through the 2024/2025 session will be formally awarded their degrees.

To accommodate the large number of graduands, the events have been divided into two major phases.

First Ceremony: 6th–8th Combined Convocation

The initial ceremony will recognize graduates from earlier academic years who completed their studies between 2018 and 2021.

Scheduled Date: Saturday, February 28, 2026

Eligible Graduating Classes:

• 2018/2019 Academic Session
  
• 2019/2020 Academic Session
  
• 2020/2021 Academic Session

Second Ceremony: 9th–12th Combined Convocation

The second phase will cater to more recent graduating cohorts, reflecting the university’s increased enrollment and academic expansion.

Scheduled Date: Saturday, April 25, 2026

Eligible Graduating Classes:

• 2021/2022 Academic Session
  
• 2022/2023 Academic Session
  
• 2023/2024 Academic Session
  
• 2024/2025 Academic Session

Participation Requirements for Graduands

Graduates intending to take part in either ceremony must comply with all administrative and financial procedures outlined by the university.

Payment of Convocation Charges

All eligible graduands are required to pay the approved convocation fee through the official university payment portal. The fee typically covers:

• Academic regalia (gown, hood, and cap)
  
• Official convocation program booklet
  
• Certificate folder
  
• Alumni association dues
  

Only those who complete payment will be cleared for participation.

Collection of Materials

After payment confirmation, graduates are to visit their respective faculty offices to collect:

• Approved academic regalia appropriate to their degree
  
• Invitation cards for guests
  
• Convocation program brochure
  

Receipts must be presented before materials are issued.

Important Instructions for Graduates

To ensure an orderly and dignified ceremony, the university has issued the following directives:

Arrival Time: All graduands must be seated at the convocation venue by 8:30 a.m., as the academic procession begins at 9:00 a.m. Late arrivals may not be allowed to join the procession.

Dress Code: Academic gowns must be worn over formal attire. Casual clothing is not permitted during the ceremony.

Return of Regalia: Hired gowns must be returned within the timeframe specified by faculty officers. Failure to comply may attract penalty charges, and certificates may be withheld until obligations are settled.

Significance of the Combined Convocation

The university described the upcoming ceremonies as a major milestone in its academic history. By organizing multiple graduation sets within a short period, AKSU aims to restore its academic timeline and ensure that alumni receive their certificates without further delay.

The institution also emphasized that the convocation marks the formal transition of graduates into professional life, postgraduate education, and other career pursuits.

Members of the university community and residents of the host areas are encouraged to cooperate with security personnel and traffic officials to ensure smooth proceedings on both dates.

Further details regarding venue arrangements and ceremony logistics will be communicated through official university channels.