HERITAGE POLYTECHNIC ANNOUNCES 17TH MATRICULATION & 16TH CONVOCATION CEREMONIES

The management of Heritage Polytechnic, under the distinguished leadership of Sir Udoyiu Udoyiu, KJW, PhD, Rector, and on behalf of the Governing Council, Academic Board, Management, Staff, and Students, is delighted to invite members of the general public, parents, guardians, well-wishers, and the entire academic community to participate in the institution’s joint 17th Matriculation and 16th Convocation ceremonies.

These ceremonies represent significant milestones in the history of Heritage Polytechnic, celebrating the achievements of both newly admitted students and graduating students who have successfully completed their academic programmes. The management has carefully structured a week-long series of events to ensure an engaging, inclusive, and memorable celebration for all participants.

Schedule of Activities

The week-long celebration will commence on Saturday, 4th April 2026, and extend through to Friday, 10th April 2026, encompassing both academic and cultural activities that highlight the institution’s commitment to holistic student development.

Saturday, 4th April, 2026 – Endurance Trek

• Take-off Point: U J Esuene Square, Eket
• Time: 6:30 AM
• The Endurance Trek is a symbolic activity designed to promote physical fitness, teamwork, and resilience among students. All participants are encouraged to wear appropriate athletic attire, carry necessary refreshments, and adhere strictly to the safety guidelines provided by the University’s Sports and Recreation Department.

Sunday, 5th April, 2026 – Interdenominational Service

• Location: The Polytechnic Chaplaincy
• Time: 9:00 AM
• The Interdenominational Service will serve as a moment of spiritual reflection and thanksgiving, bringing together students, staff, parents, and the wider community. Attendees are expected to be seated promptly by 8:45 AM. The service will be officiated by the Polytechnic Chaplain and guest ministers.

Monday, 6th April, 2026 – Old School Day

• Location: Love Garden, Campus
• Time: 10:00 AM
• Old School Day celebrates the institution’s rich history and legacy. Graduating students and staff members are invited to interact with alumni, sharing experiences, and forging mentorship connections. This event fosters a sense of continuity and institutional pride.

Tuesday, 7th April, 2026 – Cultural Day

• Location: Love Garden, Campus
• Time: 10:00 AM
• Cultural Day highlights the diverse traditions, heritage, and talents of the student body. Activities will include traditional dances, music performances, and exhibitions representing various ethnic groups across Nigeria. Students are encouraged to wear traditional attire to showcase their cultural identities.

Wednesday, 8th April, 2026 – Rag Day & Pageant Night

• Pageant Location: Mass Communication Auditorium
• Time: 7:00 PM
• Rag Day and Pageant Night provide a platform for creativity, performance, and celebration. Students will participate in stage performances, competitions, and pageants, fostering camaraderie and showcasing individual talents. Attendance is compulsory for all participants, and guests are advised to be seated by 6:30 PM.

Thursday, 9th April, 2026 – Football Match

• Location: Sports Arena, Campus
• Time: 4:00 PM
• The Football Match encourages healthy competition and physical engagement among students, staff, and alumni. Teams representing different faculties and departments will compete in a friendly match, promoting teamwork, strategy, and sportsmanship. Spectators are encouraged to support the teams while maintaining discipline and decorum.

Friday, 10th April, 2026 – Main Matriculation & Convocation Ceremonies

• Location: Ceremonial Ground
• Time: 10:00 AM
• This day marks the official induction of newly admitted students into Heritage Polytechnic and the formal graduation of students who have completed their programmes. The ceremonies will be presided over by the Rector, Sir Udoyiu Udoyiu, KJW, PhD, along with members of the Governing Council, Academic Board, and distinguished guests.
• Students and graduands are expected to be fully robed in their academic gowns and seated by 9:30 AM for the commencement of proceedings. Parents, guardians, and well-wishers are invited to witness this landmark event, celebrating academic excellence, discipline, and achievement.

Financial Obligations and Procedural Guidelines

The University management has approved specific fees and procedures to ensure smooth participation in the matriculation and convocation ceremonies:

• Matriculation Fee: ₦20,000 (for all newly admitted students)
• Convocation Fee: ₦25,000 (for graduands participating in the graduation ceremony)
• Gown Collection: Academic gowns will be available from Monday, 6th April 2026, at the Administrative Building. Students are expected to collect, wear, and return gowns in accordance with University guidelines.
• Important Notice for HND Graduands: Attendance is strictly compulsory for all HND graduands. Failure to attend will attract a mandatory penalty of ₦10,000.

Students are advised to ensure full compliance with all financial obligations prior to the ceremonies. Failure to pay or complete necessary requirements may result in exclusion from participation.

Expected Participation and Conduct

All students, graduands, and participants are reminded of the importance of decorum, punctuality, and respect throughout the week-long activities. Specific instructions include:

1. Timely Arrival: Participants must be seated at the designated venues at least 30 minutes before the scheduled start time.
2. Academic Regalia: All participants must wear their gowns and caps correctly. Gowns must be returned to the Administrative Building immediately after each event.
3. Behavioral Expectations: Students and participants are expected to maintain discipline, respect elders and guests, and follow the instructions of University marshals and event coordinators.
4. Photography and Documentation: Official photographers will capture key moments of the ceremonies. Personal photography is allowed in designated areas but must not disrupt proceedings.

Additional Information for Students and Guests

Heritage Polytechnic management encourages participants to:

• Stay hydrated and dress appropriately for both indoor and outdoor events.
• Carry necessary identification, proof of payment, and any required documentation to all ceremonies.
• Familiarize themselves with the campus layout and venue locations to ensure punctual arrival.
• Participate actively and responsibly in all activities, reflecting the values of the institution and contributing to a memorable experience for all attendees.

Health and Safety Considerations

In light of ensuring the safety and well-being of all participants, the following measures are strongly advised:

• Follow all guidance from University security and medical personnel.
• Avoid overcrowding in ceremony venues.
• Report any medical or safety concerns immediately to the nearest University official.

Conclusion

The 17th Matriculation and 16th Convocation ceremonies at Heritage Polytechnic, Eket, represent a pinnacle of achievement and celebration, honoring both the incoming and graduating students. These events exemplify the institution’s commitment to academic excellence, holistic student development, and community engagement.

The management, led by Sir Udoyiu Udoyiu, KJW, PhD, Rector, extends a warm invitation to all students, staff, parents, guardians, alumni, and members of the general public to witness these landmark events. Your participation will contribute to the success, vibrancy, and ceremonial richness of this week-long celebration.

Thank you for your attention, cooperation, and commitment to excellence.