In a significant academic development, the National Universities Commission (NUC) has granted Ekiti State University (EKSU), Ado-Ekiti, approval to commence seven new undergraduate programmes, including B.Eng in Mechatronics Engineering. This approval followed the successful outcome of the May 2025 Resource Verification Visit conducted by panels of NUC experts.
The NUC verification team had visited EKSU to assess the university’s human and material resources, ensuring compliance with the national minimum academic standards before granting approval for new courses. After a thorough evaluation, the commission concluded that EKSU met the required benchmarks for the programmes.
According to the official letter from the NUC, dated 17th July 2025, and signed by Abubakar M. Girei, Acting Director of Academic Planning on behalf of the Executive Secretary, the following seven programmes have been approved for full-time commencement:
- B.Eng Mechatronics Engineering
- B.Sc Agricultural Economics
- B.Sc Agricultural Extension and Rural Development
- B.Sc Animal Science
- B.Sc Crop Science
- B.Sc Horticulture and Landscape Management
- B.Sc Soil Science
The news of the approval was received with jubilation within the EKSU community. Management, staff, and students have hailed the development as a major academic milestone, signaling the university’s determination to broaden its academic offerings and align with global educational trends.
The Vice Chancellor of EKSU, Professor Joseph Babatola Ayodele, described the NUC’s approval as a dream come true and a testament to the tireless efforts of both academic and administrative staff. He said the new programmes reflect EKSU’s strategic vision to equip students with skills relevant to modern technological and agricultural advancements.
“This is a historic moment for Ekiti State University. The approval of Mechatronics Engineering, alongside several agricultural science programmes, positions EKSU at the forefront of providing solutions to contemporary challenges,” Professor Ayodele said.
The Vice Chancellor extended his gratitude to key stakeholders for their support, particularly Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, the university’s Visitor, who he described as a pillar of support for educational growth in Ekiti State. He also acknowledged the contributions of the university’s Chancellor, Dr. Tunji Olowolafe, and the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Prof. Akin Oyebode, for their proactive roles in advancing the institution’s mission.
Students interviewed by The Nigeria Education News correspondents in Ado-Ekiti expressed excitement over the new programmes. Tobiloba Ogunlade, a 300-level Engineering student, remarked, “The introduction of Mechatronics Engineering is a game changer. It shows that EKSU is ready to compete globally in tech-driven disciplines.”
Similarly, students in the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences welcomed the inclusion of Horticulture, Crop Science, Animal Science, and Agricultural Extension as critical for Nigeria’s quest for food security and rural development. Mary Fagbemiro, a 200-level Agricultural Science student, said, “This is good news for Ekiti and for Nigeria at large. Agriculture remains the backbone of our economy, and these courses will prepare graduates to tackle real-world problems.”
Prospective students can now begin to apply for admission into these newly approved courses for the 2025/2026 academic session. The university has promised to commence admissions immediately, assuring that all necessary resources, lecturers, laboratories, and infrastructure are in place to support quality teaching and learning.
The development also aligns with EKSU’s ongoing efforts to reposition itself as a centre of innovation and excellence, particularly in the fields of engineering, technology, and agriculture. With the addition of Mechatronics Engineering, EKSU joins the few universities in Nigeria offering this specialized course, which integrates mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering to develop intelligent systems.
Stakeholders in the education sector have commended EKSU for taking proactive steps toward expanding academic frontiers. The approval is also seen as a win for Ekiti State, which has consistently prioritized education as a tool for development.
The Deputy Registrar and Head of the Directorate of Information and Corporate Affairs, Mr. Bode Olofinmuagun (anipr), confirmed the development in an official statement, describing it as part of the university’s strategic plan to meet emerging educational and professional demands.
With this latest achievement, EKSU has reaffirmed its position as one of the leading state universities in Nigeria, committed to providing quality education and training graduates who are globally competitive and locally impactful.
