Newly admitted postgraduate students of Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) have been cautioned against plagiarism, outsourced dissertations and fabricated academic work, as the institution made clear that only students who meet its strict academic standards will graduate on schedule.
The warnings were delivered during the orientation programme for fresh students admitted for the 2025/2026 academic session, held on Friday at the ESUT Business School.
The Dean of the School of Postgraduate Studies, Professor Charles Chime, represented by Associate Dean Dr. Dorathy Abonyi, cautioned students against outsourcing dissertations or theses to third parties, stressing that the university strongly condemns fabricated academic work. She further advised students to remain diligent by meeting deadlines, submitting necessary forms promptly and paying school fees and other required charges as and when due.
The Director of the Institute for Peace, Conflict and Development Studies (IPCDS), Professor Gerald Ezirim, reinforced this position, warning that all academic works must undergo plagiarism screening before approval for defence. He cautioned that failure to comply could delay graduation, and urged students to focus on producing high quality research that aligns with global best practices and ethical standards.
Ezirim also disclosed plans to launch an online journal to publish outstanding research outputs, encouraging students to contribute meaningfully to enhance the Institute's global visibility through impactful scholarly work. He additionally called on students to take active roles in proffering sustainable solutions to conflict prone societies.
Vice Chancellor Professor Aloysius Michaels Okolie, who delivered the opening remarks, stated that the Institute was established to promote social reorientation and transformation, stressing that obtaining certificates becomes meaningless if the knowledge acquired is not applied.
Okolie also issued a firm warning against prolonged postgraduate studies, noting that students who exceed the stipulated duration risk withdrawal from their programmes. "When I assumed office, I discovered a large number of overstayed postgraduate students. We had to formally notify them and terminate their enrolment. You must ensure you complete your programme within the stipulated time. Discipline remains key. Remember, you are here not just to earn certificates but to gain knowledge, and the University is ready to support you in that journey," he stated.
