Federal College of Forestry, Ibadan, on Wednesday, matriculated 210 students for its 2023/24 academic session.
One hundred and fourteen(114) students were offered admission to pursue various National Diploma (ND) programmes, while 96 others got admitted for Higher National Diploma (HND) programmes.
In his remarks, the Director-General, Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria (FRIN) and Visitor to the college, Prof. Zachariah Yaduma, urged the students to avoid all manner of distractions during their stay in the college.
Yaduma charged the matriculating students not to see freedom from their parents as an avenue to engage in social vices that could ruin their future and bring the institution to disrepute.
“I wish to state that this memorable occasion marks your formal admission as bona fide students of this great college.
“You are all privileged to be in this great citadel of learning and your primary aim is to be focused and committed to your studies.
“So, make adequate use of this opportunity in order to map out the success of your future.
”Also, strive to be found worthy in learning and character. Make sure you set a goal of excellence for yourselves and work hard towards it, and with that, a glorious future is sure,” he said.
Also speaking, the Guest Lecturer, Prof. Abiodun Kehinde, urged the new students to see themselves as solution providers to the challenges of food security currently facing the country.
Kehinde, who is the Head, Department of Animal Science, FRIN, enjoined them to tolerate one another irrespective of their religious beliefs and always embrace peaceful coexistence with staff members and fellow students.
He called on the students to be of good character, obey all college rules and regulations and avoid any form of misbehaviour.
Earlier, the acting Provost of the college, Dr Fausat Ibrahim, urged the students to be champions of forestry which, according to her, goes beyond the study of trees.
Ibrahim noted that forestry remained the heart of human survival and the key to sustainability of the planet, which encompassed the management and care of forests for the benefit of future generations, supporting ecosystems and combating climate change.
“As the custodians of one of the earth’s most vital resources, you, our matriculating students, are stepping into the roles that are critical to the sustainability of our planet and the wellbeing of its inhabitants.
“I want you to know that the college certificate will only be awarded based on worthiness in character and learning”, she said.
The occasion featured signing of oath of allegiance by the matriculating students and presentation of awards for outstanding students from various departments in the college.
