Kisii University Vice-Chancellor Prof Nathan Ogechi has warned newly admitted students against sexual predators, reckless relationships and peer pressure as they begin university life with greater freedom and independence.
Speaking during the university’s freshman induction ceremony on Tuesday, Prof Ogechi urged the about 7,000 first-year students to exercise responsibility and remain vigilant as they adjust to life away from the close supervision of parents and guardians.
The Vice-Chancellor used the phrase “Team Mafisi” to caution students against individuals who may prey on young people, particularly those who are inexperienced and financially or emotionally vulnerable.
He told the students that university life comes with considerable freedom but warned them not to mistake that freedom for a licence to engage in irresponsible behaviour.
“Here we give you freedom. There are no monitors, no school captains or bell ringers. Remember that freedom must be used responsibly for your better good,” Prof Ogechi said.
He was particularly concerned about careless sexual relationships and the consequences of unplanned pregnancies.
The Vice-Chancellor said the university currently had limited facilities to support students who become parents while pursuing their studies.
“We opened a day-care centre recently with only four spaces. That in itself should trigger sense in you to carry yourself responsibly,” he said.
Prof Ogechi said the university had registered what he described as its largest number of students documented elsewhere as minors, urging those awaiting their national identification cards to exercise extra caution in their conduct.
“I stand here acutely aware that we have registered the largest number of students documented elsewhere as minors. Learn to act responsibly as you await for your National Identity Cards,” he said.
He cautioned students against individuals who could use money, gifts, romantic promises or other incentives to lure them into compromising situations.
The warning comes as thousands of young people transition from secondary school into an environment where they are expected to make independent decisions about friendships, relationships, finances, accommodation and personal conduct.
Prof Ogechi also called for heightened security within the university, while reminding students that institutional security measures could not replace personal vigilance.
“The first line of security is the student,” he said. “If you see something that does not look right, do not ignore it. Speak up and seek help.”
Beyond personal safety, the Vice-Chancellor challenged the new students to make their university years about more than obtaining academic certificates.
He urged them to embrace research, deeper learning and intellectual curiosity, saying university should provide an environment where students learn to question, investigate and discover.
“Do not come to university simply to pass examinations. Come here to learn, to question, to research and to discover,” he said.
With about 7,000 students joining the institution this year, Prof Ogechi said the university expected to produce not only graduates but also scholars, researchers and professionals capable of making a difference in society.
“With 7,000 of you joining us, we want to see not just graduates, but exceptional scholars, researchers and professionals,” he said.
By Tuesday evening, at least 6,500 of the 7,000 students allocated to the university had completed registration.
Prof Ogechi urged the freshmen to protect their dignity, resist destructive peer pressure and make choices that would safeguard their academic ambitions.
“Your first year should be the beginning of your success story, not the beginning of a tragedy caused by reckless decisions,” he warned.
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