The Academic Matters Division of the Federal College of Horticulture, Dadin-Kowa, Gombe State, has officially released the approved academic calendar for the 2025/2026 academic session. This calendar is a very important guide for all students, as it contains all key dates for registration, lectures, examinations, breaks, and other academic activities.

Every student is strongly advised to follow this calendar carefully to avoid missing important deadlines or events. Completing activities on time ensures a smooth academic experience without delays or complications.

First Semester Overview

The first semester of the 2025/2026 session has several important activities planned. Students should note all dates and plan ahead to avoid late registration or missing classes.

1. Students’ Registration

Registration for new and returning students will run from 12th to 30th January, 2026. During this period, students are required to:

• Submit all required documents

• Pay school fees and other charges

• Complete course registration

Tip: Students are encouraged to complete registration as early as possible to avoid long queues and possible delays.

Late registration is scheduled to take place between 2nd and 7th February, 2026. Students who miss the main registration period can use this window, but it is better to register on time to avoid missing lectures or other academic activities.

2. Commencement of Lectures

Lectures for the first semester are scheduled to start on 19th January, 2026. This means students should ensure they complete registration and have all study materials ready by this date.

Lectures will cover all the required courses for the semester, and students are expected to attend classes regularly. Attendance is crucial because it forms part of the grading system in many courses.

3. Departmental Orientation

To help students settle into their new academic environment, departmental orientation is scheduled from 9th to 20th February, 2026.

During departmental orientation, students will:

• Meet with their department heads and lecturers

• Learn about their courses and curriculum

• Receive guidance on laboratory work, practicals, and other department-specific activities

This is an important period for students to ask questions, understand academic expectations, and become familiar with the department’s resources.

4. General Orientation

After departmental orientation, a general orientation for all students will take place on 23rd and 24th April, 2026.

The general orientation will cover:

• College rules and regulations

• Student support services

• Health and safety measures

• Extra-curricular activities

Note: Students should attend both departmental and general orientations to fully understand the academic and social environment of the college.

5. Matriculation Ceremony

The matriculation ceremony is scheduled for 25th April, 2026.

Matriculation is a formal event where new students are officially admitted into the college community. It is a special milestone in every student’s academic journey and students are encouraged to attend in proper attire.

6. End of Lectures and Revision Week

Lectures for the first semester will end on 30th April, 2026. After lectures, a revision week is planned from 4th to 8th May, 2026.

During revision week, students should:

• Review all course materials

• Solve past questions and practice exercises

• Seek clarification from lecturers on difficult topics

Revision week is designed to help students prepare effectively for their first semester examinations.

7. First Semester Examinations

The first semester examinations will be conducted from 11th to 23rd May, 2026.

Students are expected to:

• Attend all exams on the scheduled dates

• Arrive on time with necessary examination materials

• Follow college examination rules strictly

Examinations test students’ understanding of the material covered during lectures and contribute significantly to final grades.

8. First Semester Break

After exams, the first semester break will run from 25th May to 5th June, 2026.

Students can use this period to:

• Rest and recharge for the second semester

• Complete assignments or research work if required

• Prepare for the next semester by reviewing first semester materials

Tip: Use the break wisely to strengthen your understanding of first semester courses.

Second Semester Overview

The second semester of the 2025/2026 academic session is equally important. All students are expected to follow the academic calendar closely.

1. Second Semester Registration

Registration for the second semester will take place from 8th to 26th June, 2026.

Students must complete:

• Payment of fees

• Course registration

• Submission of any required documents

Lectures for the second semester will commence on 8th June, 2026. Students are expected to be ready and present for classes from the first day.

2. Consideration of First Semester Results

The consideration of first semester results is scheduled for 24th June, 2026.

During this process:

• Lecturers submit students’ first semester grades

• Departments review students’ academic progress

• Decisions are made on promotions, carry-overs, or any necessary academic actions

Students should use first semester results as a guide to improve performance in the second semester.

3. End of Second Semester Lectures and Revision Week

Lectures for the second semester will end on 28th August, 2026.

Revision week is scheduled from 31st August to 4th September, 2026.

Students should use revision week to:

• Review course content thoroughly

• Solve sample questions and past papers

• Clarify doubts with lecturers before examinations

4. Second Semester Examinations

The second semester examinations will take place from 7th to 19th September, 2026.

Examinations assess students’ knowledge of the second semester courses and are crucial for calculating the overall academic performance of the year. Students are reminded to:

• Arrive on time

• Bring all required materials

• Follow college examination rules

Important: Preparing in advance during revision week increases the chances of success in second semester examinations.

5. Students’ Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES)

The Students’ Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) is scheduled for 21st September, 2026.

SIWES is a practical training program that allows students to gain hands-on experience in their field of study. During SIWES, students will:

• Work with industry professionals

• Apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings

• Develop professional skills required for future employment

Participation in SIWES is mandatory for students in applicable programmes.

6. Consideration of Second Semester Results

Finally, the consideration of second semester results will take place on 18th November, 2026.

During this process:

• Departments finalize students’ academic results for the year

• Decisions are made regarding promotion, graduation, or repeat courses

• Students are informed of their overall academic performance

Important Notes for Students

1. Follow the Academic Calendar: Students should adhere strictly to the dates provided to avoid missing lectures, exams, or registration periods.

2. Prepare in Advance: Registration, lectures, and examinations require preparation. Students should organize documents, study materials, and schedules ahead of time.

3. Attendance Matters: Regular attendance in lectures and departmental activities is important for academic success.

4. Keep Records Safe: Maintain copies of all receipts, registration forms, and examination materials for reference.

5. Use Breaks Wisely: Semester breaks are valuable periods for rest, study, or research. Students should plan to maximize their use.

6. Participate in SIWES: Students in industrial training programmes must actively participate and gain practical experience.

Conclusion

The Federal College of Horticulture, Dadin-Kowa academic calendar for 2025/2026 provides a clear roadmap for students’ academic activities throughout the year. From registration to lectures, examinations, and practical training, each step is designed to help students succeed academically and professionally.

Students are strongly encouraged to:

• Follow all dates and deadlines

• Attend all orientations, lectures, and examinations

• Use semester breaks for preparation and rest

• Actively participate in industrial training programmes

By adhering to this calendar, students can maximize their academic performance, avoid delays, and enjoy a successful academic year.

The college management emphasizes that strict compliance with the academic calendar is essential. Students who follow these guidelines will have a smooth, organized, and productive academic session.