32 Gets First Class Degrees At Adekunle Ajasin Varsity 5,799 Students

At least 32 students of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA), out of 5,799 on Monday, graduated with first-class honours during the 14th Convocation Ceremony of the institution.

The Vice-Chancellor of the university, Professor Olugbenga Ige, disclosed this during the convocation press briefing held on campus.

Ige said the figures reflect the institution’s commitment to academic excellence, research-driven teaching, and innovation.

He described the First Class graduates as exemplifying the university’s commitment to academic discipline, resilience, and integrity.

“Despite national economic and educational challenges, AAUA remains dedicated to maintaining high academic standards. Our greatest asset is academic integrity, which we uphold fiercely,” he said.

Providing a breakdown of the graduates, the VC stated that this year’s graduates include 1,444 Second Class Upper, 3,177 Second Class Lower, 582 Third Class, and 16 Pass degree recipients.

Additionally, he disclosed that 526 postgraduate students and 22 diploma candidates will receive their certificates.

Reflecting on his five-year tenure, Prof. Ige hinted that this year’s convocation will likely fill the position of Vice Chancellor of the institution.

He highlighted key accomplishments, including the establishment of three new faculties—Allied Health Sciences, Computing, and Administration & Management Sciences.

According to him, under my leadership, all assessed programmes achieved 100% accreditation by the National Universities Commission (NUC), and new programs passed resource verification with positive results.

He further stated that the university’s global research profile also grew significantly, with nine AAUA scholars ranked among the top 2% of researchers worldwide in the 2024 Elsevier–Stanford Global Scientist Ranking.

He praised the revival of the university’s inaugural lecture series, which surged from 15 lectures in 2021 to 51 delivered, with the 52nd scheduled soon.

On infrastructure, the VC disclosed that notable upgrades include the “Faculty of Science Glasshouse, the new Faculty of Social Sciences building, renovations to the 30-classroom Quadrangle, and expansion of the Faculty of Education.

“A symbolic highlight was the foundation laying of an 80-bed hostel funded by staff, alumni, students, and friends. This project stands on both concrete and goodwill,” he commented.

Addressing student welfare, the VC mentioned initiatives like the Work-Study Scheme, tuition support for physically challenged students, and investments in sports.

AAUA athletes recently won medals at NUGA competitions. He commended the Students’ Union for fostering responsible leadership, aided by the introduction of electronic voting and transparent union elections.

Prof. Ige also celebrated distinguished alumni who have secured government positions, global academic honours, and even Guinness World Records.

“Our graduates are not only employable but also transforming societies,” he stated.