The Vice Chancellor of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), Professor Francisca Bassey, has charged newly inducted teachers to embrace resilience, uphold professional ethics and demonstrate discipline, integrity and dedication in the discharge of their duties.
Professor Bassey gave the charge on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, during the induction ceremony of the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN), hosted by the university.
Congratulating the inductees on their achievement, the Vice Chancellor urged them to draw inspiration from worthy role models and recognise the responsibility that comes with shaping the knowledge, values and character of learners.
She emphasised that success in teaching goes beyond academic qualifications, noting that effective teaching requires the practical application of knowledge and skills, sound character and a commitment to continuous learning.
“Teaching is more than possessing academic qualifications. It requires discipline, integrity, resilience and the ability to translate acquired knowledge into meaningful learning experiences for students,” she said.
Professor Bassey encouraged the newly inducted teachers to remain steadfast in the face of professional challenges, maintain high moral standards and recognise the lasting influence their conduct could have on their learners.
“Your responsibilities extend beyond the classroom. The values you demonstrate, the standards you uphold and the examples you set can shape the character and future of the learners entrusted to your care,” she added.
The Vice Chancellor also prayed for divine wisdom, understanding and guidance for the inductees, expressing hope that they would make meaningful contributions to the advancement of education and society.
Also speaking, the Dean of the Faculty of Education, UNICROSS, Professor Onete U. Onete, charged the inductees to uphold professional standards and demonstrate competence, integrity and dedication throughout their teaching careers.
Professor Onete stressed the importance of continuous professional development, urging the new teachers to improve their knowledge, strengthen their skills and remain receptive to new ideas and emerging developments in education.
“Your induction should inspire you to keep learning, improve your professional competence and adopt effective teaching practices that respond to the changing needs of learners and the education sector,” he said.
He further urged the inductees to maintain ethical standards, embrace mentorship and collaboration, and serve as positive role models in their schools and communities.
According to him, the quality of teaching depends not only on professional knowledge but also on the willingness of teachers to learn, adapt and remain accountable in the discharge of their responsibilities.
Representing the Registrar and Chief Executive of TRCN, Dr. Ronke Soyombo, at the ceremony, the Council’s Director of Human Resource Management, Mr. Ugo Ali Lawrence, participated in the event, which formally inducted the teachers into the regulated profession.
The ceremony was attended by members of the UNICROSS management, academics, heads of departments and other stakeholders in the education sector.
By Kingsley Agim
