The Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE) has once again demonstrated its commitment to expanding access to quality higher education with the virtual matriculation ceremony of 73 newly admitted students into its affiliate institution, the Oyo State College of Education, Lanlate. The event, which marked the official induction of students for the 2023/2024 and 2024/2025 academic sessions, was held on Monday, September 30, 2025, and streamed live from the Abiodun Ojo ICT Complex at the university’s main campus in Oye-Ekiti.
The ceremony, conducted under the auspices of FUOYE’s Centre for Continuing Education and Part-Time Programmes, represented another milestone in the institution’s ongoing collaboration with its affiliate colleges. The Oyo State College of Education, Lanlate, has been one of FUOYE’s long-standing partners in the delivery of degree programmes designed to enhance teacher education and capacity development in Nigeria’s educational sector.
In his keynote address, the Acting Vice-Chancellor of FUOYE, Professor Olubunmi Shittu, warmly welcomed the new students to the university’s academic community. He congratulated them on their successful admission and urged them to embrace the opportunities before them with discipline, integrity, and focus. According to him, matriculation marked the beginning of a lifelong intellectual journey.
“Congratulations to you and to the university on this tremendous occasion of your matriculation into this great institution, FUOYE,” he said. “Today marks the beginning of a journey that will shape your intellect, define your character, and determine your future contributions to society, the nation, and the world at large.”
Professor Shittu emphasized that the matriculation oath signified a pledge to uphold the university’s values of excellence, discipline, and commitment to learning. In return, he said, FUOYE would continue to provide an enabling environment that nurtures creativity, digital intelligence, and moral uprightness among its students.
The Acting Vice-Chancellor further charged the students to take full responsibility for their academic and personal development, reminding them that the world was in need of leaders who combine intellect with character. “You are entering a new phase of life, and the world is waiting for you to be problem-solvers, innovators, and leaders of tomorrow,” he said. “The years ahead are not just about earning certificates but about cultivating wisdom, resilience, and responsibility.”
To guide the students through their academic journey, Prof. Shittu shared four key principles for success. The first, Discipline and Diligence Are Non-Negotiable, urged students to remain focused, consistent, and honest in all their dealings. The second, Engage Fully in Campus Life, encouraged them to participate in research, leadership, community service, and innovation. The third, Let the University Pass Through You, reminded them to internalize the university’s values and embrace diversity in thought and culture. The fourth, Leverage the FUOYE Academic Community, emphasized collaboration and support, urging students to take advantage of the mentorship and resources available within the FUOYE academic system.
Professor Shittu assured the matriculants that the university was committed to their growth, adding that FUOYE would continue to bridge the gap between conventional and affiliate education through technology-driven instruction and inclusive learning opportunities. He also reaffirmed the university’s dedication to maintaining the same academic standards across all its programmes, whether on the main campus or through its affiliate colleges.
The virtual matriculation ceremony attracted the presence of top officials of the university and affiliate programme coordinators. Dignitaries in attendance included Prof. Bolanle Tajudeen Opoola, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration); Dr. Sunday Akinkunmi, Personnel Officer (representing the Registrar); Dr. (Mrs.) Bolanle Debo Ajagunna, University Bursar; and Dr. S.A. Adeniran, Acting Dean, Faculty of Education.
Also present were Dr. O.T. Obateru, Acting Director, Directorate of Sandwich and Affiliate Programmes (DSAP); Dr. S.J. Fakayode, Head of Affiliate Programmes; Dr. O.D. Akomolafe, Representative of Duluth Affiliate; Dr. O.O. Alabi, Head of Sandwich Programme; Dr. C.H. Joseph, Deputy Head, Affiliate; and the University Public Relations Officer, Mr. Foluso Ogunmodede.
Several of the officials commended the Acting Vice-Chancellor for his visionary leadership and commitment to expanding FUOYE’s academic reach beyond its main campus. They described the affiliate partnership model as a strategic means of promoting lifelong learning and supporting state-owned institutions in their quest to achieve higher academic standards.
The event also showcased the university’s growing digital capacity, with a seamless live broadcast that allowed students, parents, and academic staff from across Nigeria to participate virtually. This innovative approach reflects FUOYE’s adaptability in the modern education landscape and its effort to foster inclusive and technology-driven academic engagement.
In his closing remarks, the Acting Vice-Chancellor reiterated FUOYE’s mission to nurture excellence and innovation among its students, irrespective of their mode of study or location. He encouraged the new entrants to remain steadfast in their pursuit of knowledge and to uphold the values of integrity and service that FUOYE represents.
The virtual matriculation ceremony concluded with a collective affirmation of FUOYE’s dedication to academic excellence, digital transformation, and the holistic development of every student under its academic umbrella. For the 73 newly admitted students of the Oyo State College of Education, Lanlate, it was more than just a formal ceremony; it was the beginning of a transformative academic journey under one of Nigeria’s fastest-growing federal universities.
