ACU Vice Chancellor Unveils Major Academic and Structural Reforms Ahead of 17th Convocation
Ajayi Crowther University (ACU) Vice Chancellor, Professor Ebunoluwa Olufemi Oduwole, has unveiled a wide-ranging set of academic, infrastructural and administrative reforms as the institution prepares for its 17th Convocation Ceremony. The updates mark her first two months in office and signal what she describes as a “new phase of growth, innovation and visibility” for the university.
In a detailed address, Professor Oduwole highlighted the rapid progress her administration has made since assuming office, emphasizing improved teaching quality, stronger student support and an expanded national presence.
3,633 Students Set to Graduate at 17th Convocation
This year, ACU will graduate 3,633 students, comprising:
Undergraduate Degrees — 2,336 Students
- 76 – First Class Honours
- 1,408 – Second Class Upper
- 810 – Second Class Lower
- 42 – Third Class
Postgraduate Degrees — 1,297 Students
- 170 – Postgraduate Diplomas
- 1,127 – Master’s Degrees
Accreditation Progress and New Academic Programs
Professor Oduwole confirmed that the National Universities Commission (NUC) recently conducted accreditation and re-accreditation visits across seven academic programmes, with the university expecting positive outcomes.
Three new programmes are currently awaiting NUC resource verification:
- Journalism and Media Studies
- Broadcasting
- Information and Media Science
In addition, ACU plans to launch its Bachelor’s Degree in Artificial Intelligence once NUC approval is secured — a move the VC described as essential for positioning the university at the forefront of technology education.
College of Health Sciences Ready to Take Off
With preparations already completed, ACU is set to open its College of Health Sciences, which will offer courses in:
- Medicine
- Pharmacy
- Allied health disciplines
This development aims to strengthen ACU’s role in training healthcare professionals for Nigeria’s rapidly expanding health sector.
Campus Reassignments to Improve Learning Efficiency
To optimize space and facilitate more efficient learning, ACU has reassigned several faculties:
- Faculty of Agriculture → Kiyeseni Awe Campus
- Faculty of Engineering → Offa Meta Campus
- Faculty of Computing → Former Engineering Complex
Professor Oduwole explained that these moves are designed to streamline academic operations and improve the delivery of practical, hands-on training.
Better Internet Access, Hospital Upgrade and Teaching Hospital Plans
The Vice Chancellor announced new partnerships with telecommunications providers to significantly improve campus internet access.
She also provided updates on the renovation of the University Health Centre, which includes:
- Building repair works
- Recruitment of new health workers
- Installation of modern medical equipment
Plans for a modern teaching hospital are also underway, aimed at enhancing medical training for the incoming College of Health Sciences.
Students Shine in Engineering Innovation, Law Competitions and Sports
Professor Oduwole praised students who distinguished themselves through innovation and competitions, including:
- Engineering students who built a solar-powered irrigation system
- Law students who excelled at national moot court trials
She reiterated ACU’s zero-tolerance stance on drug abuse and its ongoing collaboration with the NDLEA to maintain a drug-free learning environment.
Research Grant Clinic and Expanded Staff Welfare
In a bid to boost academic research, ACU will host a new Research Grant Clinic to help lecturers secure local and international grants.
The administration is also strengthening staff welfare, training and career development to ensure a more motivated and productive workforce.
Convocation Exhibitions Showcase Innovation and Agriculture
As part of convocation week, staff and students from both the Faculties of Agriculture and Engineering showcased newly developed creations, including:
- Farm tools
- Agro-processing machines
- Solar-powered solutions
- Software applications
- Fresh agricultural produce
Celebrating ACU Alumni Excellence
The Vice Chancellor also celebrated distinguished ACU alumni, including Olaseinde-Williams Godwin Oluseye, recently listed among the world’s top 2% most influential scientists.
A Future Built on Knowledge, Growth and Values
Professor Oduwole reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to academic rigor, steady institutional growth and strong moral character, stressing that ACU remains focused on equipping students with the skills needed to thrive in a fast-changing global society.
You may also like to read: Ajayi Crowther University Schedules 17th Convocation Ceremony for November 2025
