By Enitan Abel Johngold Orheruata, mnipr
Bellarks Polytechnic, Kwale, on Thursday matriculated 57 students at its 6th Matriculation Ceremony, with the institution’s management charging the new intakes to pursue practical knowledge, innovation and self-reliance in a fast-changing economy.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Rector, Prof. Uchenna Ngozi Uzokwe-Igbadi, described the event as a major turning point in the academic journey of the students, noting that their admission into the institution marked the beginning of a new phase of discipline, learning and personal development.
She said Bellarks Polytechnic remained committed to academic excellence, innovation and social responsibility, stressing that the institution was focused on equipping students with relevant skills needed to survive and thrive in the 21st century.
According to her, the country’s economic realities have made skill acquisition and functional education more important than ever, adding that the polytechnic was designed not only as a centre of learning but also as a platform for grooming future leaders and change-makers.
Prof. Uzokwe-Igbadi said the institution would continue to provide an environment that nurtures talent, builds character and prepares students to become productive members of society.
Addressing parents and guardians, the Rector thanked them for their trust and support, assuring them that Bellarks Polytechnic would justify their confidence by giving the students the training and values required for success.
She emphasized that the choice of technical and practical education was a wise one, arguing that functional education offers young people stronger opportunities for self-reliance than the pursuit of degrees without clear economic value.
Drawing inspiration from the institution’s motto, “Excellence meets innovation,” she urged the newly matriculated students to remain focused and make the most of the opportunities available to them during their stay in the institution.
The matriculation ceremony also attracted goodwill messages from notable alumni bodies, which praised the leadership of the Rector and expressed confidence in the institution’s future.
In a message to mark the occasion, the University of Ibadan Alumni Association (UIAA) Worldwide congratulated Bellarks Polytechnic on the successful hosting of its 6th matriculation ceremony and expressed optimism that the institution would continue to grow under the leadership of Prof. Uzokwe-Ogbad.
The association said it was confident that the Rector would deploy the training and administrative experience she acquired over the years to move the institution to greater heights, while wishing the management, staff and students a successful ceremony.
Similarly, the College of Education Abraka Alumni Association commended Bellarks Polytechnic for its commitment to shaping future leaders through quality education and innovation.
The association welcomed the new students into the Bellarks family and encouraged them to seize the opportunities before them, describing education as a lifelong journey that demands dedication and purpose.
It also praised the vision and leadership of the Rector, while acknowledging the sacrifices made by parents and guardians in supporting their children’s education.
The ceremony was marked by a strong sense of optimism and shared commitment among management, staff, parents and well-wishers, as Bellarks Polytechnic reaffirmed its resolve to build a generation of skilled, innovative and self-reliant graduates.
For the 57 newly admitted students, the event was not only a formal induction into academic life, but also the opening of a new chapter filled with promise, responsibility and the pursuit of excellence.