The Lagos State University (LASU) has prohibited the School of Part-Time Studies (SPTS) students from engaging in or belonging to any form of unionism in the institution.

The director of SPTS, Oluwatobi Pemede, issued the warning during his address at the 2025/2026 matriculation ceremony for students at the Femi Gbajabiamila Hall, LASU main campus, Ojo.

The director was represented at the event by the assistant director, SPTS, Oluwaseun Babalola.

Mr Pemede said the institution would not condone any act of misconduct from them.

“Permit me to remind you to review your admission letter carefully. I quote, ‘You are equally warned that student unionism is prohibited for this category of program.’ Let this serve as a clear reminder of the standards expected of you,” he said.

He assured the matriculating students that LASU would continue to offer more than academic excellence for personal growth and networking.

“As you embark upon this academic journey, it is pertinent to note that university life offers far more than academic excellence alone.

“It is, indeed, a journey of personal growth, networking, exploration, and discovery. Embrace the opportunities in our citadel of learning, which will eventually shape your future,” he said.

He advised them to build meaningful relationships with the lecturers, colleagues, and the wider community.

The director, who said the SPTS had admitted students into five faculties and 17 departments, added that they had recently added two more programmes, bringing the total to 17.

“The additional programmes are philosophy and music,” he said. “This steady expansion is a testament to the visionary leadership of our vice-chancellor and the commitment of the university management to broadening academic opportunities for learners in the part-time scheme.”

Earlier, the vice chancellor (VC), Ibiyemi Olayinka-Bello, who declared the matriculation ceremony open, rejoiced and congratulated the students.

The VC was represented by Adigun Lawal, a professor of industrial-organisational psychology in the Department of Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences, Lagos State University.

She assured the students of their security and urged them to take advantage of every available resource to engage with their peers.

Ms Olayinka-Bello stressed that the university has zero tolerance for cultism, examination malpractices, sexual and gender-based violence, corruption, hooliganism, and other vices.

(NAN)