…as Acting VC warns students against cultism, other vices
Otitoju Femi
Directorate of Sandwich and Affiliate Programmes (DSAP) of the Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE), Ekiti State, Nigeria made a significant mark on Thursday, May 22, 2025, as it held its inaugural matriculation ceremony.
The milestone event, hosted at the university’s Itaji Campus, formally welcomed over 350 students into the 2024/2025 academic session.
In his keynote address, the Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Olubunmi Shittu, congratulated the newly admitted students, expressing his delight at witnessing the birth of a new chapter in FUOYE’s academic journey.
Besides, he encouraged the students to fully embrace the university’s values, urging them to align with FUOYE’s guiding principles.
He also commended the affiliate centres for their outstanding contributions, describing FUOYE as Nigeria’s fastest-growing university and a front-runner in technological advancement and academic excellence.
Highlighting the importance of academic discipline, Professor Shittu encouraged students to cooperate with their lecturers, pursue excellence and steer clear of social vices.
He said: “I warmly congratulate each of you, especially our fresh students on this historic occasion.
“This is a landmark event — the first of its kind — and I deeply appreciate the efforts of the Dean of the Faculty of Education, Professor M.O. Bankole, as well as the Acting Director of the programme, Dr. (Mrs.) O.T. Obateru, for their dedication and vision.
“At FUOYE, we are driven by our motto: Innovation and Character for National Transformation. We uphold responsibility and reliability as the bedrock of our academic community.
“Our recent establishment of a third Deputy Vice-Chancellor in charge of SPRIL is a testament to our strategic growth and innovation.
“Education is the gateway to the future, but only those who prepare for it today will truly own it.
“Avoid examination malpractice, cultism, and drug abuse. Your purpose here is to enhance your education and build a future of integrity.”
However, the Acting Vice-Chancellor extended heartfelt appreciation to the Olutaji of Itaji-Ekiti, His Royal Majesty Oba Adamo Babalola, for his unwavering support and hospitality.
“We are deeply grateful for the warm welcome and consistent backing from the Itaji-Ekiti community since the inception of our programmes here,” he added.
The ceremony also featured the official administration of the oath of allegiance by the University Registrar, Mr. Mufutau Ibrahim.
In a solemn moment, the matriculating students pledged their commitment to the institution’s rules and values, vowing to uphold integrity throughout their academic journey.
The momentous event was graced by top university officials, academic leaders, and esteemed traditional chiefs from the Itaji-Ekiti community, marking a new era of academic expansion and partnership for FUOYE.
Photo Credit: Toye Fisher
