The Vice Chancellor of Godfrey Okoye University, Enugu, Reverend Father Professor Christian Anieke, has reaffirmed the university’s zero tolerance for social vices, urging new and transferred students to uphold discipline, focus, and moral integrity in their academic pursuit.

He gave the charge during Day One of the 17th Orientation Programme of the university, held on Monday, October 6, 2025, at the university auditorium. The orientation, organized for new and transferred students of the 2025/2026 academic session, featured presentations from key members of management, including the Registrar, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic), and the University Bursar.

In his address, Reverend Father Professor Anieke cautioned students against drug abuse, cultism, stealing, examination malpractice, mob action, and harassment of fellow students or staff, describing them as behaviours incompatible with the university’s values.

He further warned that students should refrain from circulating or being in possession of inappropriate or indecent content, noting that such actions would attract serious disciplinary measures.

“A freedom that does not bring development is not freedom at all,” the Vice Chancellor said, stressing that students should not seek freedom without control, as discipline and structure were essential for success in life.

The Vice Chancellor also highlighted that Godfrey Okoye University boasts of modern facilities and specialized Directorates that are not obtainable in any other university, making it one of the most innovative institutions in Nigeria. He added that students of the university graduate without any encumbrances, thanks to the institution’s transparent academic processes and efficient management systems.

Reverend Father Professor Anieke emphasized that Godfrey Okoye University rewards hard work and excellence, supporting students to excel in national and international competitions. He proudly recalled that GOU was the first university to introduce the “Vice Chancellor for One Day” initiative, a tradition that celebrates academic excellence by allowing the best-performing student to serve symbolically as the Vice Chancellor for a day.

He further advised the students to invest their time wisely by reading voraciously and cultivating the right attitude toward learning.

“The difference between a smart person and a fool is that a fool reads nonsense while a sharp person reads good things. Staying focused is the secret of success in life. Avoid building castles in the air,” he added.

Reverend Father Professor Anieke also explained the university’s strong emphasis on English Language proficiency, noting that it was designed to make students confident and competent wherever they found themselves.

In her presentation, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic), Sister Professor Marysylvia Nwachukwu, emphasized the importance of discipline, responsibility, and positive relationships in achieving success. She urged students to set clear goals, work with the school calendar, and plan their activities in line with the academic schedule to stay organized and productive. Sister Professor Nwachukwu further advised the students to practice accountability and maintain mutual respect in their interactions.

The Registrar, Dr. Mrs. Peace Ike, reminded students that they must maintain at least 75 percent attendance to be eligible to write examinations. She also advised them to follow the proper administrative channels when accessing results and other academic matters, warning that the university had zero tolerance for examination misconduct.

On financial matters, the University Bursar, Professor Mrs. Modesta Egiyi, cautioned students and parents against paying fees into wrong or individual accounts. She explained that all approved fees were published annually on the university website and urged students to verify any financial concerns directly with the Bursary Department.

In a special session, Monsignor Edward Kanife from the Faculty of Education introduced handwriting course for students, noting that clear and legible handwriting makes examination scripts easier to read and assess.

The first day of the orientation concluded with the Common Midday Prayer, marking the end of a highly informative and inspiring session designed to welcome the new students into the GOU community.