Future Energy Leaders: PTI Matriculates 2,101 Students in Grand Ceremony
By Wilson Macaulay
The Petroleum Training Institute (PTI), Effurun, Delta State, has formally admitted a total of 2,101 students into its Full-Time and School of Industrial and Continuing Education (SICE) programmes for the 2025/2026 academic session, in a grand matriculation ceremony that underscored the Institute’s commitment to grooming the next generation of energy professionals.
The colourful ceremony, held at the Institute’s Conference Centre on Friday, April 17, 2026, drew dignitaries from across the academic community, parents, guardians, and stakeholders in the education sector, all gathered to witness the formal induction of the new students into the PTI community.
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In his matriculation address, the Principal and Chief Executive of the Institute, Engr. Dr. Samuel E. Onoji, welcomed the students to what he described as a “citadel of academic excellence,” noting that their admission marks the beginning of a transformative journey into the global energy industry. He emphasized that PTI remains a leading institution in technical and professional training, particularly in the oil and gas sector.
The address, delivered on his behalf by the Director of Research and Development, Dr. Mrs. Tina Isichei, congratulated the students and their families for reaching a significant academic milestone. She stressed that beyond academic excellence, the Institute places high value on discipline and character development, which are essential in shaping responsible and industry-ready graduates.
The Institute charged the matriculating students to embrace innovation, resilience, and adaptability in response to the rapidly evolving global energy landscape. They were encouraged to take advantage of PTI’s strong industry partnerships with organizations such as Laser Engineering, Ioda Energy, and Indora Petrochemicals, which continue to enhance practical training and employment prospects for graduates.
Students were also informed about the Federal Government’s Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), described as a key initiative under the Renewed Hope Agenda aimed at expanding access to higher education. Eligible students were urged to utilize the interest-free loan scheme through the appropriate institutional channels.
Reaffirming its zero-tolerance policy on indiscipline, the Institute warned against examination malpractice, cultism, drug abuse, sexual misconduct, bullying, and other forms of social vices. Management stressed that adherence to institutional rules is non-negotiable and that violators would face strict disciplinary measures.
The freshers were further advised to align their academic pursuits with emerging trends such as renewable energy, artificial intelligence, robotics, data analytics, and the Internet of Things, while also seeking additional certifications to remain competitive in a fast-changing global workforce.
Speaking to journalists at the sidelines of the ceremony, some of the matriculating students, including Mr. Chidozie Samuel and Mohammed Suleman of the Petroleum Marketing and Business Studies Department, alongside Eko Stephanie of the Petroleum and Natural Gas Processing Department, expressed gratitude to God for the opportunity to study at PTI. They pledged to remain focused and committed to academic excellence throughout their stay in the Institute.
The highlight of the event was the administration of the matriculation oath to the 2,101 students, officially inducting them into the academic and professional fold of the Petroleum Training Institute, as they begin their journey toward becoming future leaders in the energy sector.
(DEMOCRACY NEWSLINE NEWSPAPER, APRIL 18TH 2026)
