By Elijah Ugani
The Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Prof Offiong E Offiong, has charged the newly inducted graduates of Science Laboratory Technology to be good ambassadors of the institution as they go into the wider society.
The VC gave the charge during the second edition induction/oath taking ceremony of 336 graduands by the Nigerian Institute of Science Laboratory Technology, held at the senate Chambers of the university, today March 31st 2026.
In his words “Let me remind you that you are the ambassadors of this institution. Whatever fruits you yield out there, must be that of reputation. Often, we are asked to give recommendations about our graduates. Please be of conduct wherever you are. Let not the certificate make you feel that you have arrived.
“Put yourself very much prepare to confront the challenges on the global market. Many of you are looking outside the country. I know some of those who read Laboratory Science studying outside the country.
“Today the world is confronted with challenges of artificial intelligence. Do not wait to be carried by the challenges. Be at the forefront. This represents another form of knowledge that ensures the fast dynamics of knowledge.
“We remain your partners even as you start this new beginning. It is symbolic that this is happening just a year after the first edition. We will work with the Institute to ensure that it will be a yearly event and it will show stability on our part and that of the institute.
“For me today is a new beginning for all of you. A new responsibility. You have a task at hand to prove yourself. The certificate only give you the entrance into the labour market”.
Prof Offiong reminded the enthusiastic inductees that they are to proof themselves in the society when he said “You are to prove yourself in the society. You are not likely to find that your friend you normally sit together during exams. You will not find that lecturer that use to assist you. In the labour market, you are on your own. You are supposed to take stock of your life. You are the only one who knows your life and the extra skill you need to acquire. You are the only one who knows where you need to prepare for the labour market, and I charge you to prepare and meet that opportunity.
“We remain your partners even as you start this new beginning. Congratulations and God bless you all”.
On his part, the Dean, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Prof Chris Ndome, congratulated the inductees and noted that there is significant progress as the maiden edition of the induction/oath last year recorded 210 persons while this second edition has 336 inductees.
He stated that Science Laboratory Technology has consistently demonstrated innovations and is commited to the growth of the university. He acknowledged staff whose expertise has brought the students this far. “Today we celebrate not only the academic achievements of our students, but the gains of their contributions to the betterment of the society”. Said he.
Ndome admonished the inductees to be guided by the principle of humanity “As you take the oath, may you be guided by the principle of service to humanity. Don’t fail to collaborate with your peers. Let us embrace this occasion and look forward to the impact the inductees will make in the larger society”. He added.
The Head of Department, Dr Ivon Ettah, noted that “This induction ceremony symbolises the formal transition of our students from academic training into the noble and highly demanding profession of Science Laboratory Technology.
“Over the years, our department has remained committed to excellence in teaching, research and practical training. We have consistently produced graduates who are not only academically sound but also professionally competent, ethically grounded, and globally competitive. The class of 2024 has upheld this tradition with distinction”.
The HOD urged the inductees to uphold the highest standards of integrity, passion and responsibility. “Remember that as Science Laboratory Technologists, you are custodians of scientific accuracy and key contributors to advancement in healthcare, environmental sustainability, industrial development and research innovation. Let me also acknowledge our dedicated staff whose tireless efforts have shaped these graduates.
“To our esteemed professional and regulatory body, the NISLT, we deeply value your collaboration and guidance in ensuring that our curriculum meets national and global standards. Graduands, as you step out, continue to learn, innovate and contribute meaningfully to society. The future of science and laboratory rests in capable hands such as yours.
“On behalf of the department of Science Laboratory Technology, Faculty, and the University Management, I congratulate you all and wish you a fulfilling and impactful professional journey”.
Also speaking, the Deputy Vice Chancellor Academics, Prof Ekaette Enang, congratulated the inductees and held that “This is a stepping stone into your professional journey that demands the highest level of integrity, responsibility and service to humanity. Today, demand is placed on you that as you go out there, you must continue to learn to enable you meet up the demands out there. The world is fast growing technologically, so you have to keep learning. The university has done it part to provide you with the enablement to get your B.Sc., you are expected to be good ambassadors of the university of Calabar. Please keep the flag flying”.
Commending the department, Prof Enang noted that “I want to commend the department for this second induction in a row. I want to thank all formators, all teaching and non teaching staff that contribute to this day. We celebrate all parents who have provided for this momentous occasion”.
Administering the Oath of allegiance on the inductees, the Acting Director General/Registrar/CEO, Nigerian Institute of Science Laboratory Technology, Prof Peter Adefisoye Oluwafisoye, represented by the Deputy Director, Technology, Dr Adebola Odeseye congratulated the inductees and posited that “Science Laboratory forms a pathway for scientific growth and development. No nation can develop without scientific exposition”.
He informed the inductees that “You are called to play a role in the development of this country. The role of SLT in technological development, cannot be overemphasized. In Quality assurance. You are expected to ensure that quality is maintained. In Innovation. Your role is to transform theoretical research into practical set. Others include: Environmental protection and policy formulation. Treatment and prevention. You must continue to upgrade your skills in line with global practices through data analysis. The future belongs to you who are technically driven.
“You must uphold integrity, confidentiality in your data. Respect institutional guidance. Errors or negligence can cause a lot of problems in the society. Nigeria is counting on you. Today’s ceremony is not an end. It is the beginning of your journey into making Nigeria great.
He listed some core areas of professionalism to include: Integrity, Confidential, Transparent Accountability, Competency limitations, Seek professional advice, Be objective at all times, Respect the dignity of man, Set good examples, Dress well.
In a goodwill message, the Cross River State Commissioner for Science and Technology, Dr Justin Beshel, who was a lecturer in the department, noted that “We are here to celebrate our children who have done well. What started like a play today is mighty. Thank God that am the commissioner for Science and Technology, whatever innovation you have, bring it. I will connect you to the global world and we will strengthen the collaboration”.
Highlights of the induction was the administering of oath of allegiance, presentation of licence to the VC by NISLT for onward forwarding to the HOD, presentation of awards of service to the Vice of Chancellor, Prof Offiong E Offiong, Deputy Vice Chancellor Academics, Prof Ekaette Enang, the Acting Director General, NISLT, Prof Peter Adefisoye Oluwafisoye, the keynote speaker, Prof Ani Nkang, best graduating student, Ms Constance Obasi, among others.
