The acting Vice-Chancellor of the University of Abuja, Professor Lar Manko, has warned Nigerian parents and guardians against paying money to influence the university admission process for their children, describing the practice as illegal and exploitative.

She asserted that such actions not only undermine the integrity of the admission process but also expose unsuspecting families to fraudsters and criminal syndicates.

Speaking during a media interaction on Wednesday in Abuja, the university helmswoman disclosed that over 200 fake admissions had recently been uncovered within the institution, many of which were linked to individuals who collected money under false pretences, assuring prospective students of placement into the institution.

She said investigations had revealed that some candidates had paid unscrupulous individuals to gain entry into the university, only to later find that their admissions were not recognised by the Joint Admission Matriculation Board and official records.

The media briefing was convened to update the public on the achievements recorded, challenges encountered and addressed during her six-month tenure, which is set to conclude next month.

Speaking in her address, the acting VC said, “When I assumed office, I was confronted with a student issue of admission, where there were over 200 fake admissions. That was not easy as well.

“A committee was established, which took time to investigate the reasons, the immediate and remote causes. And that has been remedied. It was truly a challenge. We have parents who are willing to pay money. There is no need to pay money. Nigerian parents should stop paying money to get admission. I want to use this opportunity to say it clearly,” she declared.

According to the VC, many students affected by fake admission fell victim due to ignorance and desperation.

She urged parents and guardians to ensure their children only process admission through official Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board platforms and university portals.

“Those affected should visit our academic office or even my office directly. If you didn’t go through JAMB or our system, you’re not in. Don’t let anyone deceive you.”

She added that affected individuals are being guided on how to regularise their status, but warned that such lapses damage the university’s reputation.

According to her, the fraudulent admission racket was one of the numerous administrative and governance challenges she inherited when appointed by President Bola Tinubu to stabilise the institution earlier this year.

Beyond curbing corruption, the Vice-Chancellor also highlighted student-focused reforms, including the successful conduct of the first digital Students’ Union Government elections, in which over 5,000 students voted online.

“It was a joyful and proud moment. We now have a democratically elected union after years of student voice suppression. “There was no handing over note when I assumed office. The university was fragmented, riddled with petitions, factions, and demotivated staff. But we have worked to restore order and institutional integrity.”

She also announced that more than 12,000 students had benefited from entrepreneurial training and empowerment initiatives, including a driving school and company registration support, making graduates more employable.

“We have introduced what we call the Career Student Empowerment Centre, we have energised students and introduced measures that will make their experience on campus far enriching. And, you know, they have the opportunity to learn skills, to build entrepreneurial skills.

“Currently, over 12,000 students have been empowered practically through those centres to enrich their academic experience. They will go out, and I can tell you the generation of students that will pass out from this period, they will be more employable because they are students who are encouraged to learn extra skills. We have a driving school that now has over 500 students subscribing to it.

“You can imagine students graduating with a driving license. You can imagine students graduating with their own companies registered. Those are some of the attributes that are making the University of Abuja a learning environment that will be the number one spot for everybody.”

Since taking office five months ago, the Acting VC said she has prioritised the restoration of merit-based systems, including academic promotions, staff welfare, and inclusive governance.

Over 40 professors and associate professors who had been delayed or denied promotion were finally elevated, bringing joy and renewed motivation to the academic community.

“Some promotions were delayed for up to six years. We have addressed that. Over 300 petitions on promotion and staff welfare are being reviewed.”

She also lamented the state of infrastructure on campus, particularly staff housing.

“Some professors are living in unfit buildings. I saw the photos and I wept. We need serious financial investment and political will to address that.”

Similarly, funding has remained a persistent challenge for the University.

While acknowledging government support, the Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Lar Patricia Manko, noted that public funding alone is no longer sufficient to meet the growing demands of quality higher education.

“The government cannot fund education entirely and efficiently,” she said. “We must begin to explore alternative sources of revenue and enhance the services we offer as a university.”

She explained that several programmes, particularly those aimed at expanding online access and digital learning, require significant investment in ICT infrastructure, including a robust internet backbone to support virtual education delivery.

Professor Manko also expressed concern over the inconsistency in capital funding, disclosing that more than 80 per cent of the 2024 budgetary allocation has not been cash-backed, with no clarity yet on disbursements for the 2025 fiscal year.

On a brighter note, she praised the impact of the 3-megawatt solar hybrid farm delivered under the Renewed Hope Energising Education Programme, saying it had significantly reduced diesel costs and improved power supply to key university buildings.

The Vice-Chancellor said the university has signed new international collaborations with institutions from China, the United States, the United Kingdom, Russia, and Europe. New language programs in Portuguese, Japanese, Chinese, and Russian have also been introduced to broaden student skills.

“We are rebuilding a global university, one where students are equipped, staff are motivated, and diversity is respected.”

Despite the short time in office and absence of a formal handover, the VC expressed optimism that the institution is on track to become a top-tier research and innovation hub in West Africa.

“Whether or not I remain in this position, I am proud of the work done so far. UniAbuja is now a place of hope again.” (The PUNCH)