Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU) has announced a new date for its 16th Matriculation Ceremony for the 2025/2026 academic session. The event, which formally admits newly enrolled students into the university community, will now hold on Friday, March 20, 2026.

The update was conveyed through an official communication from the Office of the Registrar, endorsed by Dr. Ebi G. Eno-Ibanga, FINM. The university informed students, parents, and stakeholders of the adjustment and expressed regret for any inconvenience the change may cause. No specific reason was stated for the rescheduling.

Adjustment Comes Amid Packed University Activities

The revised date falls within a period of intense academic engagements at the institution. AKSU is currently organizing multiple combined convocation ceremonies aimed at clearing outstanding graduation exercises from previous academic years.

Scheduled convocation activities include:

• 6th, 7th, and 8th Combined Convocation: Saturday, February 28, 2026
  
• 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th Combined Convocation: Saturday, April 25, 2026
  

With the matriculation now set between these major events, the new schedule is expected to allow administrative units adequate time to coordinate logistics effectively and ensure all new students complete required documentation and clearance procedures.

Why Matriculation Matters

Matriculation represents the official commencement of a student’s academic journey at AKSU. During the ceremony, fresh students will take the matriculation oath, pledging to abide by the university’s rules and uphold standards of discipline and academic excellence.

This year’s ceremony is particularly significant as it welcomes students into several newly approved programmes recently introduced by the university following accreditation approvals. The expansion has increased enrollment across various faculties.

Requirements for Fresh Students

All newly admitted students must fulfill the following obligations before the ceremony:

1. Payment of Required Fees

Students are expected to pay the stipulated matriculation charge through the university’s online portal. The fee typically covers the academic gown and official ceremony materials.

2. Collection of Academic Gown

Gowns will be issued through faculty offices upon presentation of payment evidence and valid student identification or clearance documents.

3. Compulsory Participation

Attendance at the matriculation ceremony is mandatory. Students who do not participate in the oath-taking and sign the official matriculation register risk losing their admission status for the session.

Information for Parents and Guests

Parents and guardians intending to attend are advised to update their travel plans to reflect the new date. The ceremony is expected to hold across designated venues within the university campuses, with security arrangements in place to ensure orderliness and safety.

Visitors are encouraged to arrive early and comply with campus regulations regarding parking and access routes.