By Ibrahim John Sesay
Central University on Saturday, January 24, 2026, held its 10th Matriculation Ceremony, officially admitting 383 new students for the 2025/2026 academic year. The ceremony took place at the University’s campus in Mile 91, Tonkolili District, and brought together students, parents, guardians, academic staff and members of the university administration.
The event marked a significant milestone in the lives of the newly admitted students, formally recognizing them as bona fide members of the Central University academic community.
Delivering the welcome address, the Head of the Department of Communication and Humanities, Abu Bakarr Bundu, said the ceremony was designed to officially induct students into the University. He described Central University as an institution built on academic excellence, discipline and hard work, assuring the matriculants that choosing the institution was a wise decision.
Speaking on student welfare and conduct, the Dean of Students’ Affairs, Madam Zainab Sallay Koroma, urged students to maintain discipline and actively engage in positive campus life. She emphasized the need to balance academic responsibilities with responsible social activities, noting that students’ conduct reflects both personal values and the reputation of the institution.
She explained that university education goes beyond attending lectures and earning certificates, stressing the importance of developing critical thinking, integrity and a strong sense of purpose. According to her, Central University is committed to nurturing students’ potential and preparing them to become responsible leaders in society.
The Director of Academic Affairs, Handel Mac-Williams, described the matriculation ceremony as a momentous occasion in the academic calendar, marking the official beginning of the students’ academic journey. He encouraged the matriculants to take their studies seriously, engage actively in classroom discussions and make full use of the facilities available on campus, including uninterrupted electricity, internet connectivity and water supply.
He further encouraged students to participate in extracurricular activities, noting that the academic calendar includes programs aimed at developing students physically, mentally and socially. He also advised them to remain focused and avoid distractions that could derail their academic goals.
The Registrar, Maligie Sesay, formally administered the matriculation oath, reminding students of the University’s rules, regulations and academic standards. Speaking to The Calabash Newspaper, the Registrar confirmed that 383 students were admitted for the 2025/2026 academic year, a figure he said reflects growing public confidence in the University’s academic programs and administrative systems.
In his keynote address, the Vice Chancellor and Principal, Prof. Bob Karankay Conteh, described the ceremony as a defining moment in every student’s academic journey. He thanked parents and guardians for entrusting the University with their children’s higher education and congratulated them for the sacrifices made.
Prof. Bob Karankay Conteh highlighted the University’s technological advancements, including a paperless electronic library, functional computer systems and dedicated radio and television stations for practical training in Mass Communication. He also noted that all departments are equipped with laboratories to support hands-on learning.
“Matriculation is not just a formality; it is a pledge by the University to provide knowledge and skills, and a commitment by students to uphold discipline, integrity and excellence,” he stated.
Heads of faculties and departments were present to welcome the students and brief them on academic expectations. Parents and guardians expressed satisfaction with the organization of the ceremony and confidence in the University’s learning environment.
The ceremony was climaxed with cultural and musical performances by the University’s Music and Art groups, alongside orderly academic processions that added color and dignity to the event.
As the ceremony concluded, Management reaffirmed its commitment to continued investment in infrastructure, teaching quality and student support services, officially welcoming the new students into the Central University community with a charge to pursue academic excellence and contribute to national development.
