Matriculation: ICT University best choice for multitudes of freshmen.

ICT University Vice Chancellor, endowed Prof Jean Emmanuel Pondi, speaking at last Friday's matriculation ceremony, reiterated his commitment to stepping up the university’s zero tolerance and punishment for acts of anti-social behaviour capable of promoting and propagating social vices, saying he would not treat any student found culpable for cheating, plagiarism, sexual harassment, and other social vices on campus, with kid-gloves.

The revered varsity don and accomplished author, said he would not hesitate to punish any student found guilty of social vices with a view to protecting the university rules and regulations with its zero- tolerance mantra for any vice not in tandem with the corporate image of the university.

The Vice Chancellor, who told no fewer than 700 newly admitted students at the 2025-2026 matriculation ceremony of the university, enjoined the matriculating students to shun vices, urging them to respect the rules and regulations of the university and be diligent in their studies.

The over 700 students admitted were retained from over 3,000 applicants. 

They have come in search of knowledge from all parts of Cameroon and beyond.

In his scripted address delivered during last Friday’s matriculation ceremony, Prof Pondi first said he was particularly honored by the presence of His Excellency, Jonathan Sie Earley, Liberian Ambassador to Cameroon, and his fellow compatriot, Honorable Timothy Wilson Gaye, who is Deputy Managing Director of the Liberian Water and Sewer Corporation. 

Prof Pondi, who served previously as Secretary General of the University of Yaounde II, said the presence of the Liberian delegation underscores the importance of higher education and the strong bonds of cooperation between both nations. 

“We are deeply grateful for your support and encouragement,” he told the West Africans.

Upholding principles of integrity

Turning to the focus of the days, the distinguished Prof of International Relations, told students that: “Today marks a defining moment in your academic journey”.

The Pan-Africanist told the newly admitted students that a Matriculation Ceremony is not merely a formality; it is a sacred rite of passage that formally admits “you into the academic community of The ICT University and binds you to our traditions, values, and standards”.

He continued that: “By matriculating today, you are making a solemn commitment. You are pledging to uphold the principles of academic integrity, to pursue knowledge with diligence and honesty, and to conduct yourselves in a reputable manner”.

Prof Pondi said the ceremony will transform the students from applicants into full members of the ICT University community. 

“With this transformation, comes both privilege and responsibility” he insisted, telling the students to look around the ceremony hall. 

“You are surrounded by future computer scientists, software engineers, cybersecurity experts, data analysts, business leaders, accountants, finance professionals, journalists, marketers, and renewable energy specialists. You are a diverse community united by ambition, curiosity, and the desire to make a difference,” he told the students.

He boasted that at the ICT University, “we do not produce ordinary graduates. We develop hybrid leaders—professionals who understand that in today's world, technology and business are two sides of the same coin. You will learn to think like technologists and act like entrepreneurs. You will learn to innovate like engineers and strategize like business executives”.

Journey ahead…

Prof Pondi told the students that the path they have chosen is not an easy one, but it is profoundly rewarding.

He said: “In the coming years, you will be challenged intellectually, pushed beyond your comfort zones, and equipped with skills that should make you indispensable in the global marketplace”.

The VC then stated: “To our technology students—you will learn to build the digital infrastructure of tomorrow, but you will also understand the markets, business models, and strategies that turn innovations into impact. To our business students—you will learn to lead organizations in a digital age, but you will also understand the technologies that are reshaping every industry, from finance to healthcare to agriculture”.

“This convergence of disciplines is what sets The ICT University apart. This is what makes you uniquely prepared for the future” he mentioned.

He told the students that as matriculate today “understand clearly what we expect from you… You are here to learn, to grow, and to excel. Attend every class. Engage with your professors. Complete your assignments with pride. Your education is as much your responsibility as it is ours”.

Prof Pondi was categorical that “We have a zero-tolerance policy on cheating, plagiarism, fraud, sexual harassment, verbal harassment, violence, and the consumption of alcohol and drugs on campus. For us, your character matters as much as your competence”.

He told the students that “Every one of you has the potential to create value, generate employment, solve problems, and build wealth. Think beyond being job seekers—think like job creators”.

“You will face challenges. You will experience setbacks. Learn to fail forward. Mistakes are not failures—they are lessons. Have the courage to try and the perseverance to keep going” he continued.

Make country, Africa proud

Speaking further at the matriculation ceremony, Prof Pondi reminded the students that “Today, you stand at the threshold of transformation. The future of Cameroon, Africa, and the world needs leaders who can navigate complexity, bridge disciplines, and drive innovation. That is who you are striving to become”.

He advised them to “make the most of every opportunity. Join student organizations. Participate in hackathons and business competitions. Collaborate on projects. Build friendships that will last a lifetime. The student beside you today might be your co-founder, your business partner, or your colleague tomorrow”.

“The future belongs to those who prepare for it today. You have made the decision to prepare yourselves. Now commit fully to this journey,” he concluded.

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3631 of Thursday November 20, 2025