Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University 2025/2026: Orientation Jan 12-15, Matriculation Jan 16

Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi (formerly Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi) has announced key dates for the 2025/2026 academic session. Fresh students begin orientation on January 12, with matriculation ceremony scheduled for January 16, 2026.

Important Dates

New Students Orientation

• Dates: Monday, January 12 - Thursday, January 15, 2026
• Duration: 4-day orientation programme
• Target: All newly admitted students for 2025/2026 session

Registration Deadline

• Final Date: Friday, January 16, 2026
• Applies to: All students (new and returning)
• Critical: Registration must be completed by this date per academic calendar

Matriculation Ceremony

• Date: Friday, January 16, 2026
• Time: 10:00 AM
• Venue: James Ayatse Convocation Square, South Core

What Fresh Students Should Do

Week of January 12-15: Orientation

Newly admitted students must participate in the 4-day orientation programme. This introduces you to:

• University rules, regulations, and expectations
• Campus facilities and resources (library, labs, health center)
• Academic requirements and grading system
• Student support services and organizations
• Campus safety and security protocols
• Code of conduct and disciplinary procedures

By January 16: Complete Registration

All students must finalize registration before Friday, January 16. This includes:

1. Acceptance fee payment verification
2. School fees payment
3. Course registration for first semester
4. Biodata capture and student ID card collection
5. Departmental clearance
6. Medical clearance if required

January 16: Attend Matriculation

The matriculation ceremony is the formal induction of new students into the university. During matriculation:

• You take the matriculation oath
• You officially become a bonafide JOSTUM student
• Vice-Chancellor formally welcomes fresh students
• Academic expectations are outlined
• University regulations are explained

Matriculation Ceremony Details

Venue Information

James Ayatse Convocation Square, South Core

This is the university's main convocation venue located at the South Core section of campus. If you're unfamiliar with the location:

• Ask for directions during orientation week
• Visit the venue beforehand to know the location
• Check campus maps or ask senior students

Timing

• Ceremony Start: 10:00 AM sharp
• Recommended Arrival: 9:00 AM (to be seated before ceremony begins)
• Duration: Typically 2-3 hours

Who Must Attend

• Mandatory for all fresh students: Your matriculation marks official university admission
• University officials: All Heads of Departments, Deans, and Directors required to attend
• Parents/Guardians welcome: Family members can attend to witness your matriculation

What to Wear for Matriculation

Matriculation is a formal academic ceremony. Dress appropriately:

For Students

• Formal attire: Suits, traditional wear, or formal dresses
• Avoid: Jeans, t-shirts, sneakers, casual wear
• Modesty: Dress conservatively and professionally
• Comfort: Choose formal wear that's comfortable for 2-3 hours

University Name Change Context

The institution was recently renamed from Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi (FUAM) to Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi by the Federal Government. The name honors the late Joseph Sarwuan Tarka, a prominent Nigerian statesman and nationalist from Benue State.

Vice-Chancellor's Message

Engr. Prof. Isaac N. Itodo, Vice-Chancellor, extended warm greetings to:

• Returning students: Welcome back for continuation of studies
• Newly admitted students: Welcome to the university community

He wished all students "a productive and successful academic year," emphasizing the university's commitment to academic excellence and student success.

Academic Calendar Compliance

The Vice-Chancellor stressed that students, parents, and guardians should "adhere strictly to the academic calendar to ensure smooth operations throughout the session."

This means:

• Meet all deadlines as announced
• Complete registration by January 16
• Attend scheduled orientation and matriculation
• Follow semester timelines for exams and breaks

Orientation Programme Importance

What Orientation Teaches You

The 4-day orientation (Jan 12-15) is essential because it:

• Helps you understand university systems and procedures
• Connects you with faculty, staff, and fellow students
• Prepares you for academic expectations
• Explains resources available to support your success
• Sets foundation for your entire university experience

Don't Skip Orientation

Students who skip orientation often struggle because they miss crucial information about:

• How to register courses properly
• Where to access academic resources
• University rules and consequences for violations
• Support services available when you need help

For Parents and Guardians

Supporting Your Child's Transition

• Ensure timely arrival: Help your child reach campus before orientation begins
• Complete registration: Ensure all fees are paid and documents submitted
• Attend matriculation: Witness your child's formal university induction
• Follow calendar: Help your child adhere to academic deadlines

What to Bring for Orientation Week

• Admission letter and JAMB result
• All required clearance documents
• Payment receipts (acceptance fee, school fees)
• Passport photographs
• Writing materials for notes
• Personal items for campus stay

After Matriculation

Following the matriculation ceremony on January 16:

1. Lectures begin according to academic calendar
2. Course attendance becomes mandatory
3. Academic performance tracking starts
4. You're officially enrolled as JOSTUM student

Important Reminders

• Orientation: January 12-15, 2026 (4 days)
• Registration Deadline: January 16, 2026
• Matriculation: January 16, 2026, 10:00 AM
• Venue: James Ayatse Convocation Square, South Core
• Dress Code: Formal attire for matriculation
• Attendance: Mandatory for all fresh students

Welcome to JOSTUM

As you begin your journey at Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, remember that these first weeks set the foundation for your entire university experience. Take orientation seriously, complete registration on time, and approach your studies with dedication.

The university community looks forward to welcoming you officially at matriculation on January 16, 2026.