The Milton Margai Technical University (MMTU) on Wednesday 29th January 2025, organised an orientation ceremony for over 3,000 newly-admitted students at the Great Hall of the Goderich Campus in Freetown, at which event the Vice Chancellor and Principal of MMTU, Dr. Philip John Kanu, enlightened the students that the ceremony is the beginning of another academic year, that the journey would be exciting with countless opportunities, and assured them that the MMTU is part of a vibrant community.
Dr. Kanu also underscored the power of education with the potentials to transform the lives of the students and the world, and urged them to think beyond boundaries, furthering that education is not just about earning degrees.
The Vice Chancellor and Principal guaranteed the students that lecturers and staff would guide and support them in everything they do to succeed, that excellence is not just what one strives for, and encouraged them to seek help when needed and to also stay engaged.
He also disclosed that they would be initiated into the MMTU life, noting that although university life is demanding, they must strive for distinction, stressing that they must make their mark at MMTU, in addition to making good friends, exhibit their talents, respect diversity of both lecturers and colleagues.
According to Dr Kanu, the students must persevere and be focused, as the road to success is not easy, adding that they must be determined and explore new opportunities.
He continued that the new students must uphold the principles of the MMTU, make a difference, and above all, fear God, report sexual harassment, dress decently, participate in all activities organised by the MMTU. He advised them not to buy/pay for pamphlets, lecture notes, assignments or unauthorised field trips.
He also warned them to pay their fees 100 % to avoid penalties, keep the campus clean and tidy, that they would not be promoted to the next class even with one reference, and updated them about the forthcoming Faculty and Cultural Day and the Games and Sports Day.
Earlier, the Vice Principal and Director of Academic Affairs, Dr. Mohamed Alie Jalloh, observed that the day is a significant milestone in the academic journey of the new students, highlighting that it’s a pleasure for the administration to welcome them.
He further revealed that their academic journey would be challenging, but rewarding, and entreated the students to forge lasting relationships and experiences, take full responsibility for their own learning, while assuring them of the MMTU’s full support.
Dr. Mohamed Alie Jalloh also appealed to the new students to always do their assignments on time, attend classes regularly and on time, read notices, be familiar with the MMTU website, as well as what is happening around the university, assuring that they would be guided in all aspects of the MMTU. He reiterated that staff and lecturers are disciplined and determined to work with them.
Highlights of the event were statements by Deans of Faculties, Heads of Departments and a saxophone performance by a student.