The University of Makeni (UNIMAK) officially commenced its 2025/2026 academic year with a comprehensive new student orientation held on the 30th of October 2025, in the university auditorium. During the ceremony, Registrar Foday Augustine Bangura advised the new students, emphasizing that they have chosen a path for their future. He strongly cautioned against substance abuse and stressed the importance of time management, dedication to studies, and an enhanced sense of responsibility throughout their academic journey. Supporting this message, Deputy Registrar Tamba Ansumana highlighted the registry as the university’s primary repository of information, assuring students of the confidentiality and transparency of their academic records. He urged continuous communication with the registry, which is responsible for maintaining all student data and ensuring files are complete before graduation.
Key university officials provided essential information on academic life, finances, and the university’s conduct expectations. Deputy Director of Academic Affairs Dr. CMB Jalloh welcomed students to the “beautiful family,” encouraging them to set goals, seek guidance from lecturers, and embrace a life of purpose. He, along with the Director of Academic Affairs, confirmed that the directorate would guide students, conduct all exams, and facilitate interaction with academic staff. Deputy Director of Finance Bernadette Kanu and Senior Finance Officer Synthia Sesay detailed the payment structure, confirming that the finance office is open for all students and can arrange payment plans with an initial deposit, though all payments must be made at designated banks. Furthermore, a faculty administrator, Andrew Sesay, clarified the UNIMAK grading system, which combines exams and continuous assessments, and noted the provision for retake exams and the right for students to request script remarking.
In an effort to uphold institutional standards and student safety, Deputy Dean of Students Mohamed Wahab Kamara emphasized the importance of following the university’s code of conduct, especially regarding proper and responsible dress as outlined in the student handbook. Dr. Jalloh also introduced the university’s safeguarding policy and Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) to ensure exam integrity. He explained that the safeguarding policy acts as a legal framework, guided by the university code of conduct, to protect students from all forms of violence and to define the conduct expected of lecturers. The university’s commitment to fostering a “civilization of love” and a culture of transparency and discipline was a key theme, setting the tone for the new academic year, with departmental orientations planned to continue on October 31, 2025.
