The Ebonyi State University (EBSU) has shortlisted 72 students of the Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Health Sciences and Technology over poor academic performance, an official has said.

The decision is contained in a statement signed by the head of department, Victor Usanga, and made available to journalists in Abakaliki, on Monday.

According to the statement, 41 students in 100 level and 31 students in 200 level were recommended for withdrawal from the university for failing to meet the minimum academic requirements.

It further indicated that 10 other students would be placed on academic probation.

It stated that eight of them were in 300 level, while two were in the 400 Level.

The statement further noted that many of the affected students recorded Cumulative Grade Point Averages (CGPAs), ranging from 0.00 to 2.44, which were below the benchmark required to remain in the programme.

It stated that the recommendation was in line with its academic regulations, aimed at maintaining standards and discipline in the institution.

Reacting to the development, the Students’ Union Government (SUG) of the institution expressed concern over the published withdrawal list affecting students in the department.

The SUG president, Abraham Nwuhuo, said that while the union recognised the authority of the university management to enforce policies designed to uphold academic standards, due process and transparency must be strictly observed.

Mr Nwuhuo said that there were credible reports suggesting that some of the affected students had yet to access, review or fully authenticate the results upon which the management reached its decision.

“In consideration of the foregoing, the SUG earnestly advocates meticulous adherence to due process, administrative transparency and comprehensive result verification prior to the ratification or public dissemination of any withdrawal list.

“Decisions of such far-reaching academic consequence must be anchored on procedural propriety, equity and unimpeachable clarity,” he said.

Mr Nwuhuo urged the affected students to remain calm and law-abiding, assuring them that constructive engagement with the university authorities was ongoing through appropriate institutional channels.

He affirmed the union’s commitment to protecting the academic rights, dignity and welfare of students, saying that every student deserved fairness and transparency in matters relating to academic progression.

(NAN)