The University of Makeni (Unimak) has in a public notice dated February 12th, 2024 emphatically refuted and distances itself from what it says are the unfounded accusations put forth by Legal Link in its recent open letter to the University Registrar dated March 7, 2024.

The letter titled, “IN AN OPEN LETTER SENT TO THE REGISTRAR, LEGAL LINK CONDEMNS THE MOVE BY UNIMAK ADMINISTRATION TO CENSOR 16 LAW STUDENTS FROM PARTICIPATING IN THE MARCH 2024 GRADUATION,” the University says it contains claims that are not only baseless but also deeply misleading.

According to the letter, Legal Link says it has received several complaints from about 16 affected students who are supposed to graduate alleging that the University has taken steps to disqualify them from being a part of the March 2024 Graduation ceremony.

As an organization that defends the rights of vulnerable groups including deprived students, Legal Link stated in its letter that it is deeply concerned with the move intended to be taken by the UNIMAK administration. The move, the Human Rights organization says will negatively affect the future of the students and their families.

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The organization further alleges that the outright cavalier attitude and inconsistent behavior of the administration and the exams office are not enforcing strict adherence to the no-reference rule is perhaps the true reason why such abrogation has persisted at UNIMAK.

Responding to the letter, the University of Makeni says operates within the legal framework delineated by the Universities Act No 5 of 2021

The act, Unimak argues confers a significant degree of academic autonomy upon both public and private universities.

Notably, the University wrote on its notice that Section 18(d) of this legislation specifically empowers the University Senate to confer degrees, and award diplomas, certificates, and other academic distinctions to individuals who fulfill the requisite criteria.

Within this legal context, the University of Makeni says it regards the assertions made by Legal Link as both frivolous and malicious.

“The institution is steadfast in its adherence to the principles of academic integrity and autonomy, ensuring that decisions and actions undertaken align with these fundamental values,” the University said.

Furthermore, the University of Makeni underscores its unwavering commitment to upholding the highest standards of academic excellence and fairness.

Any decisions taken regarding student participation or academic matters are meticulously considered within the framework of established policies and regulations.

For those seeking clarification or additional information, the notice says the Office of the Registrar at the University of Makeni can be reached via phone at +23276624132.