Professor Bayode Isaiah Popoola has assumed duty as the first substantive vice chancellor of Adeyemi Federal University of Education (AFUED) in Ondo State.
Popoola, a professor of guidance and counselling, succeeded Prof. Samuel Akintunde, who had administered the university in acting capacity since its elevation from the College of Education.
Delivering his maiden address at his presentation before the University community on Thursday, August 14, 2025, Prof. Popoola described his appointment as a “divine arrangement by God,” saying, “I know that I have not been called merely to assume a position, but I have been given the mandate to lay the foundation of a University that is destined to become a centre of excellence in teacher education, research, innovation, and national development.”
The new University administrator hinted at plans to elevate the institution to heights, stating that “in the coming weeks, we shall roll out comprehensive plans for structural reform, staff development, academic programme expansion, and infrastructure renewal.”
Popoola added that his administration would focus on seven key priorities, which he listed as including curriculum innovation, Research and Innovation in teacher education, staff development and capacity building, and the welfare of staff and students. Others were infrastructure, ICT and learning environment, funding, income generation, and Alumni Relations.
The Professor of Guidance and Counselling lauded members of the University Governing Council for the roles played during the selection process preceding his appointment as the first substantive Vice-Chancellor of the Institution.
His words: “Let me start this address by expressing my deep heartfelt appreciation to all members of the University Governing Council for the roles they played in ensuring the success of the selection process”.
“It is commendable that the council ensured the selection process was fair, credible and transparent. It is a demonstration of integrity and uncommon courage that our council members did not succumb to pressures but remained guided by the principle of justice and fairness throughout the various stages of the selection process”, he remarked.
He also commended the paramount ruler of Ondo Kingdom, Oba Dr. Victor Adesimbo Kiladejo, Jilo III, the people of Ondo and Members of the Institution’s Alumni Association for their “commitment, unrelenting passion and tireless efforts in making sure that this institution became a full-fledged University.”
