The Federal Polytechnic, Idah (FPI), through its Directorate of Academic Planning, has officially released the approved academic calendar for the 2025/2026 academic session. The calendar provides a comprehensive outline of academic activities, administrative schedules, examination periods, and public observances for all students, including both regular and SIWES participants. The institution’s commitment to maintaining a structured academic environment ensures that students, faculty, and administrative staff can plan effectively and participate fully in the academic activities of the year.

Overview of the 2025/2026 Academic Session

The 2025/2026 session at FPI has been carefully structured to provide adequate time for teaching, learning, and evaluation. The calendar includes schedules for first, second, third, and fourth semesters, catering to both new and returning students. It also incorporates important dates for SIWES students, who will follow a slightly adjusted schedule to accommodate industrial training requirements.

The calendar reflects the Polytechnic’s commitment to academic excellence, punctuality, and efficiency, ensuring that all academic and co-curricular activities are harmoniously integrated into the session.

Key Activities for Regular Students (1st & 3rd Semesters)

The academic year will commence in September 2025 with administrative and preparatory activities. The first admission list for new students will be released on September 25, 2025, followed by a supplementary admission list on October 9, 2025, providing additional opportunities for prospective candidates to join the institution.

Students are expected to resume on October 11, 2025, with registration activities running from October 13 to October 24, 2025. Lectures for the first semester will officially begin on October 20, 2025, marking the start of academic engagement for all registered students.

Throughout the semester, students will participate in continuous assessment exercises, which serve to monitor academic progress and ensure that learning objectives are met. Additionally, the Rector’s Cup competitions will provide students with opportunities to showcase their talents in sports and cultural activities, promoting a holistic education.

The semester includes an end-of-year break from December 21, 2025, to January 3, 2026, allowing students to rest and prepare for the second phase of the session. Orientation for new students is scheduled for January 26–30, 2026, providing first-year students with the necessary guidance to navigate academic life, understand institutional rules, and build meaningful relationships with faculty and peers. Matriculation ceremonies for new students will take place on January 31, 2026, formally welcoming them into the Polytechnic community.

First semester examinations are scheduled from February 16 to March 7, 2026, after which students will enjoy a semester break from March 8–20, 2026. This break offers a well-deserved period of rest and preparation for the upcoming second semester.

SIWES Students (3rd Semester Only)

Students participating in the Student Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) will follow a slightly modified timetable to accommodate their training in relevant industries. These students are expected to resume on November 29, 2025, with lectures commencing on December 8, 2025.

The SIWES semester will continue through the end-of-year break, ensuring that students can balance practical industrial experience with academic requirements. Their examinations are scheduled from February 23 to March 7, 2026, after which SIWES participants will conclude their semester activities.

Second and Fourth Semesters (All Students)

The second semester of the 2025/2026 session will commence with resumption on March 22, 2026, and lectures beginning on March 30, 2026. This semester will run for 14 weeks, culminating in examinations from June 15 to July 4, 2026.

Following the second semester, preparations for the next SIWES session are scheduled to begin on July 6, 2026, allowing students and faculty to transition smoothly into practical industrial training. The fourth semester will similarly align with this structure, ensuring continuity and effective academic delivery across all levels.

Public Holidays and Institutional Observances

The FPI academic calendar also integrates important national holidays and institutional events to ensure students and staff can plan accordingly. These include:

• National Independence Day: October 1, 2025

• Christmas Day: December 25, 2025

• Eid al-Fitr: March 20–21, 2026 (tentative)

• Workers’ Day: May 1, 2026

• Democracy Day: June 12, 2026

Observing these holidays helps maintain institutional compliance with national standards while providing students with opportunities for cultural reflection, family engagement, and community participation.

Preparatory Activities for 2026/2027 Academic Session

Planning for the 2026/2027 academic session will commence in August 2026. Key activities include verification and computation of results, scheduled from August 3–17, 2026, ensuring that all academic records are accurately updated and ready for the next session.

New and returning students, excluding SIWES participants, are expected to resume on September 5, 2026, marking the official start of the new academic year. By providing these timelines in advance, FPI ensures a smooth transition for all stakeholders and promotes continuity in academic delivery.

Communication and Dissemination

The academic calendar has been widely circulated to all relevant offices and stakeholders within the institution, including:

• The Rector and Deputy Rectors

• The Registrar and Directors

• Deans and Heads of Departments

• Union Chairpersons and Student Representatives

This ensures that everyone involved in the academic process is well-informed of key dates, responsibilities, and institutional expectations. The dissemination also supports effective coordination of academic, administrative, and extracurricular activities, thereby promoting a structured and efficient academic session.

Conclusion

The Federal Polytechnic, Idah continues to demonstrate its commitment to providing quality, organized, and student-focused education through meticulous planning and clear communication. The 2025/2026 academic calendar is a reflection of the institution’s dedication to academic excellence, administrative efficiency, and holistic student development.

By adhering to the calendar, students, faculty, and staff can ensure that they fully engage with the academic and extracurricular opportunities offered throughout the year. From registration and orientation to lectures, examinations, and industrial training, every aspect of the session has been thoughtfully planned to maximize learning, personal growth, and professional preparation.

Students are encouraged to take note of all important dates, actively participate in all academic and co-curricular activities, and make the most of the opportunities presented by the Federal Polytechnic, Idah. By doing so, they will ensure a successful and fulfilling academic journey, fully aligned with the Polytechnic’s vision of producing competent, innovative, and socially responsible graduates.

Signed:
Dr. Abu Onoja
Director, Academic Planning
Federal Polytechnic, Idah