Unical to graduate10,820 Students, bans admission racketeering 

From Ene Asuquo, Calabar 

The University of Calabar will convocate 10,820 students in it’s 38th convocation slated for the 10th April, 2026.

The Vice Chancellor of the University, Offiong Effanga Offiong made the disclosure while briefing journalists on the activities lined up for the event.

Making the announcement in Calabar, Professor Offiong disclosed that 152 students will have Diploma, First Degree 9,173, and Postgraduates 1,495. Of the 9,173 First Degree graduates, 52 has made first class, 

While, 2,390 fell into the second-class upper division while 5,819 backed Second-class Lower division, and 666 made it to third class, and 246 had pass. He also said that a total number of 463 Ph.D graduands will be convoking in  this year’s event. 

The Vice-Chancellor Offiong also warned against over-admission and racketeering into the institution, declaring that the practice will no longer be tolerated under his administration.

He stressed that the management had put in place strict measures to sanitise the admission process, insisting that the institution would only admit students in line with its approved carrying capacity.

“We have begun with some preliminary measures to sanitise the admission process. Let me state clearly, no more over-admission,” he said.

The Vice-Chancellor cautioned parents, guardians and prospective students against mounting pressure on the institution for admission into highly competitive courses such as Medicine, Pharmacy and Nursing where available slots are limited.

“Please, when you are told there is no space in Medicine and Surgery, Pharmacy or Nursing, do not insist. We will not indulge in over-admission,” he added.

Offiong disclosed that any official found culpable in previous admission irregularities was already facing disciplinary action, noting that the Central Admissions Committee had been restored to ensure transparency and due process.

He also warned members of the public against engaging in bribery to secure admission or employment, urging them to report anyone soliciting financial inducement.

“If you give bribe, you are guilty; if you receive bribe, you are also guilty. Every admission and employment process will be strictly based on merit and due process,” he said.

The VC further revealed that the university was investigating cases of certificate racketeering and forgery involving fake documents allegedly being processed in some computer centres using the institution’s name.

According to him, those involved would be exposed and prosecuted once apprehended.

Speaking on the convocation, Offiong said a total of 10,820 students would graduate during the ceremony, including 52 first-class degree holders and 463 PhD graduands.

He outlined activities lined up for the convocation, scheduled to run from April 7 to April 12, 2026, including an interdenominational service, research fair and exhibition, convocation lecture, award of degrees and a grand finale thanksgiving service.

He reiterated his administration’s commitment to transparency, academic excellence and institutional integrity, while seeking continued support from stakeholders and the media in driving the university’s transformation agenda.