…OAUSTECH matriculates over 2,700 students

By Kayode Olabanji, Okitipupa

The Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology (OAUSTECH), Okitipupa, has matriculated over 2,700 students during its 14th matriculation ceremony held at the university auditorium.

Addressing the fresh students, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Temi Ologunorisa, charged them to be law-abiding, disciplined, and committed to their academic pursuits.

He underscored the institution’s steady expansion, noting that its faculties have grown from three to seven. The newly admitted students are spread across the Faculty of Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Faculty of Engineering, Faculty of Management Sciences, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Faculty of Nursing, and Faculty of Information and Communication Technology.

Prof. Ologunorisa described OAUSTECH as one of Nigeria’s top-ranking institutions, offering a serene learning environment, modern facilities, and a team of dedicated lecturers and professors.

“You are privileged to be here. We provide a conducive environment and necessary learning tools, but your success depends on your dedication and hard work,” he said.

The Vice-Chancellor reassured the students of the institution’s commitment to delivering quality education while warning against academic misconduct, particularly bribery.

“Bribing lecturers is strictly prohibited. If you are caught, you will face the consequences. We do not condone academic corruption of any kind,” he warned.

He further advised students to attend lectures regularly, complete assignments, and steer clear of deviant behaviours or actions that could jeopardise their future.

“At OAUSTECH, our vision is to produce globally competitive graduates equipped with 21st-century skills,” he emphasised.

Speaking shortly after the event, the Student Union President, Comrade Elusoji Samuel Temitope, congratulated the fresh students and urged them to be law-abiding while remaining focused on their studies.

Some of the matriculated students, including Bakare Aishah and Ademosu Fatimah, who spoke to our correspondent, expressed gratitude for being part of the university. “We are excited,” they enthused.

Meanwhile, at the inauguration of the Student Union Executive for the 2024/2025 academic session, held at the university’s main campus, the Vice-Chancellor stressed the importance of maintaining a peaceful atmosphere for meaningful progress.

He acknowledged that occasional differences between the management and students were inevitable but emphasised the need for resolving such challenges through maturity, transparency, and mutual understanding.

He urged student leaders to engage in constructive activism guided by wisdom and dignity.

He further advised the newly elected executives to uphold the institution’s positive image and refrain from actions that could bring it into disrepute.

Highlighting the university’s progress, Prof. Ologunorisa noted that OAUSTECH had maintained an uninterrupted academic calendar for the past three years.

He also announced plans to introduce new academic programmes, including the School of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, and School of Maritime Transport and Logistics.

In his remarks, the Acting Dean of Student Affairs, Dr. Daniel Adekeye, commended the Vice-Chancellor for his unwavering commitment to addressing student concerns.

The newly elected Student Union President, Comrade Elusoji Samuel Temitope, lauded the university’s management for ensuring a transparent and fair election process.

He pledged to prioritise student welfare and uphold the values of accountability and integrity.

The event was attended by key university officials, including the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Registrar, and University Bursar. The oath of office was administered by the Head of the University Legal Unit, Barrister Pius Oyewumi.