Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic in Aba, Abia State, has taken a decisive step to curb unethical practices within its academic system by banning lecturers from compelling students to purchase specific textbooks. This policy shift, as announced by the institution’s Rector, Dr. C.K. Okoro, is part of a broader campaign to promote academic integrity and reduce unnecessary financial pressure on students and their families.
Dr. Okoro criticized the practice, labeling it exploitative and incompatible with the values of a modern, progressive academic institution. He explained that many lecturers had turned the sale of textbooks into a profit-driven enterprise, often forcing students to buy expensive, irrelevant, or outdated materials. According to him, this has led to exploitative tendencies, including extortion and even cases of “sex for grades,” which he declared will no longer be tolerated under his administration.
“It is no longer business as usual,” Dr. Okoro stated firmly, emphasizing the school’s renewed focus on ethics, transparency, and quality education. He stressed that the institution cannot continue to allow the production of unqualified graduates, as such compromises the credibility of the polytechnic and the future of its students.
To ensure strict compliance with the new directive, Dr. Okoro announced that any lecturer caught violating the rule would be dismissed from service, while students found aiding such misconduct would face expulsion. He made it clear that both staff and students are expected to uphold the values of discipline, hard work, and honesty.
He also took the opportunity to acknowledge the support of the Abia State Governor, who has provided the institution with vital resources aimed at upgrading its infrastructure and academic environment. According to Dr. Okoro, the support is helping reposition the polytechnic to meet international standards and produce graduates who can compete globally.
In addition, the Rector expressed empathy for parents who are struggling to afford quality education for their children. He noted that with rising economic challenges, it was unjustifiable for lecturers to impose further costs on students by mandating the purchase of specific textbooks for personal gain.
Dr. Okoro concluded by urging students to focus on their academic pursuits and avoid shortcuts that could endanger their academic future. He reassured the public that Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic is on a new path—one that values discipline, accountability, and excellence—as it strives to become a leading institution in Nigeria and beyond.