University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) Announces Orientation and Matriculation Ceremonies for 2025/2026 Academic Session

The University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) wishes to inform all newly admitted students, including 1st year and direct entry candidates, about the upcoming Orientation and Matriculation Ceremonies for the 2025/2026 academic session. These ceremonies are essential events in the academic calendar, designed to formally welcome students into the university community, introduce them to academic life, and ensure they understand the rules, regulations, and expectations of the institution.

Orientation Ceremony

• Date: Monday, 19th January 2026

• Location: All campuses of UNICROSS

The orientation ceremony is the first formal engagement for new students. It serves as a comprehensive introduction to campus life, academic culture, and institutional policies. During the orientation:

• Students will be introduced to university management, faculty members, and key administrative staff.

• Academic structures, rules, and regulations will be explained, ensuring students understand what is expected of them.

• Key student services, including libraries, health services, ICT facilities, and student support offices, will be highlighted.

• Guidance on academic planning, course registration, and use of the student portal will be provided.

• Social and co-curricular opportunities will be outlined to encourage holistic development.

Orientation is mandatory for all new students as it lays the foundation for successful academic progression and fosters a sense of belonging within the UNICROSS community.

Matriculation Ceremony

The matriculation ceremony is the formal induction of students into the university, marking the official start of their academic journey as full members of UNICROSS. The ceremony is scheduled as follows:

• Calabar Campus: Wednesday, 29th January 2026

• Ogoja Campus: Thursday, 30th January 2026

The matriculation ceremony is not only symbolic but also legally binding within the university framework, as students who fail to matriculate may lose certain privileges, including participation in lectures, examinations, and access to campus facilities.

Requirements for Participation

To be eligible for matriculation, all newly admitted students are required to:

1. Pay full session school fees: Payment of the entire session fees is compulsory. Students who do not settle their fees in full will not be allowed to matriculate.

2. Complete departmental registration: Students must register in their respective departments and obtain verification from the departmental authorities.

3. Comply with all university guidelines: This includes submission of all required documents, adherence to dress codes for the ceremony, and observance of university protocols.

Failure to fulfill any of these requirements will result in the student forfeiting their admission into the university. The management emphasizes that compliance is non-negotiable, and students are strongly urged to complete all necessary procedures before the scheduled dates.

Purpose and Significance of Orientation and Matriculation

The Orientation and Matriculation Ceremonies are cornerstone events for new students. They are designed to:

• Integrate students into university life: Students gain an understanding of the academic, social, and cultural environment of UNICROSS.

• Introduce institutional values and expectations: Students learn about integrity, discipline, and ethical conduct, which are central to academic and personal success.

• Provide administrative guidance: Students receive instructions on registration, accessing online portals, and understanding course requirements.

• Foster community and networking: Orientation and matriculation provide opportunities to meet fellow students, faculty, and administrative staff, forming the foundation for future collaborations.

• Celebrate achievement: The ceremonies recognize the students’ accomplishments and welcome them as official members of the academic community.

Advice to Students

The university strongly advises all newly admitted students to:

• Attend both orientation and matriculation ceremonies: Missing these events may result in administrative complications and delays in course registration.

• Ensure timely payment of fees: Verify that all payments are acknowledged and receipts safely stored for documentation purposes.

• Complete registration promptly: Departmental registration should be finalized well before the matriculation date to avoid disqualification.

• Follow university guidelines strictly: Adherence to rules ensures smooth participation in academic and social activities and prevents administrative penalties.

Role of Parents and Guardians

Parents and guardians play a vital role in supporting students during the early stages of their university journey. UNICROSS encourages parents to:

• Attend the ceremonies where possible: This demonstrates support and encourages students to take their academic responsibilities seriously.

• Monitor compliance with administrative requirements: Parents can ensure that students complete fee payments and departmental registration on time.

• Engage with university authorities: Parents attending the events have the opportunity to interact with university management and understand policies that affect their wards.

The involvement of parents and guardians contributes to a positive and supportive environment for students.

Campus-Wide Participation

Orientation activities will be held across all UNICROSS campuses, ensuring that every newly admitted student receives the guidance and introduction required. This campus-wide approach allows for:

• A consistent understanding of university policies and regulations across all campuses.

• Equal access to academic and support resources for students in both Calabar and Ogoja campuses.

• Opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds to interact and begin forming networks.

The matriculation ceremonies will be campus-specific to accommodate logistical needs and ensure a smooth, organized event.

Important Reminders

The University reminds students that:

• Non-compliance with fee payment and registration rules will result in forfeiture of admission.

• Students should retain all receipts and documentation as proof of compliance.

• Participation in matriculation is mandatory for recognition as bonafide students of UNICROSS.

• All communication regarding orientation and matriculation will be disseminated via official university channels, including the university website and notice boards.

Students are encouraged to regularly check these platforms for updates, announcements, and clarifications to avoid missing critical information.

Conclusion

The 2025/2026 Orientation and Matriculation Ceremonies at UNICROSS represent key milestones in the academic journey of newly admitted students. They are designed to ensure that students are:

• Fully integrated into the university community

• Aware of academic expectations and regulations

• Equipped to navigate the administrative and social landscape of university life

• Formally inducted into the university as bonafide members

By adhering to the outlined procedures, paying all fees in full, and registering in their respective departments, students will secure their place in the university and begin their academic session with clarity and confidence.

The university management, faculty, and administrative staff look forward to welcoming students and their families to these significant events, reinforcing UNICROSS’s commitment to academic excellence, student welfare, and holistic development.

This notice serves as a comprehensive guide for all newly admitted students regarding orientation and matriculation for the 2025/2026 academic session at UNICROSS. Students are strongly encouraged to comply fully to ensure a smooth and successful start to their university education.