By Oluwagbemiga Toye
The Vice-Chancellor of Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology (BOUESTI), Prof. Andrew Babatunde Omojola, has announced that the institution is set to hold its second convocation ceremony, even as he highlighted major achievements and ongoing developments within the university.
Speaking at a press conference held on Monday, Prof. Omojola said a total of 1,645 students would graduate during the ceremony. The breakdown shows that 60 students earned First Class Honours, 563 made Second Class Upper Division, 854 graduated with Second Class Lower Division, while 168 obtained Third Class Honours.
The Vice-Chancellor expressed appreciation to Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, Governor of Ekiti State, for his continued support, particularly the approval for the construction of a five-kilometre intra-campus road. He also commended the Chancellor, Wole Olanipekun, and the university council led by Prof. Patrick Aina for their contributions.
Prof. Omojola acknowledged the foundation laid by the pioneer Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Olufemi Victor Adeoluwa, noting that his leadership positioned the university for rapid growth. Highlighting recent milestones, the Vice-Chancellor listed the construction of a Multipurpose Hall, establishment of a College of Postgraduate Studies, creation of a solar-powered technology hub with 24-hour internet access, and the launch of BOUESTI academic journals. He added that the university recorded a strong showing at the 27th Nigerian Universities Games (NUGA), winning nine medals and finishing 14th out of 97 participating institutions.
He further noted that student enrolment has risen from 2,401 at inception in 2021 to 22,994, describing BOUESTI as one of the fastest-growing universities in Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa.
Assuming office on January 6, 2026, Prof. Omojola said the management has implemented several initiatives, including the revival of the university farm, establishment of a yoghurt production unit, payment of salary arrears, improved campus security, and expansion of partnerships to address infrastructural needs.
On student support, the Vice Chancellor disclosed that over 8,000 students have benefited from the NELFUND scheme in 2026, a significant increase from fewer than 2,000 in 2025. He attributed the rise to sustained awareness campaigns by the university.
Addressing infrastructure, the university has requested a total of 14.2 kilometres to adequately service the campus. He also responded to concerns over poor internet connectivity, stating that experts have assessed the situation and earmarked over ₦800 million to transform the institution into a smart campus with enhanced digital infrastructure.
Despite the progress, Prof. Omojola identified inadequate funding and infrastructure as major challenges, urging the state government and well-meaning individuals to support the university in meeting the demands of its rapidly growing student population.
According to the Vice Chancellor, Activities lined up for the convocation include a novelty football match between lecturers and students on Tuesday , a variety show, convocation drama, alumni gathering, staff reception and honouring some individuals as ambassadors of the institution on Wednesday and Thursday while Friday is Jumat Service , Saturday conferment of degrees, and a thanksgiving service on Sunday to round off the week-long celebration.
The Vice-Chancellor assured stakeholders of a well-organized ceremony, reaffirming the institution’s commitment to producing globally competitive and entrepreneurial graduates.