By Samuel Sunday
The Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology (BOUESTI) has announced that 1,645 students will graduate at its second convocation ceremony, while showcasing new strides in academic expansion, infrastructural development, and stronger industry collaboration as the institution continues its steady rise in Nigeria’s higher education space.
The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Andrew Babatunde Omojola, made the disclosure during a press conference held at the Senate Building of the university in Ikere-Ekiti, Ekiti State.
He said the institution is aggressively expanding its academic offerings, with the National Universities Commission (NUC) currently verifying about 30 proposed postgraduate programmes aimed at strengthening advanced learning and research capacity.
Omojola explained that BOUESTI is also upgrading its physical infrastructure to support its growing population, disclosing plans to extend internal road construction across campus to about 14 kilometres. He added that the university continues to benefit from strong support from the state government, particularly Governor Biodun Oyebanji, whose interventions have helped address key infrastructural challenges.
According to him, student enrolment has increased significantly from 2,401 at inception in 2021 to 22,994, describing the rise as evidence of growing public confidence in the institution. He confirmed that 1,645 students will graduate at the convocation, with 60 First Class, 563 Second Class Upper, 854 Second Class Lower, and 168 Third Class degree holders.
Omojola further stated that the university is strengthening partnerships with industries and professional bodies to ensure students are better equipped with practical skills and improved employability. He noted that BOUESTI remains committed to producing graduates who are innovative, disciplined, and globally competitive.
Beyond academics, he highlighted students’ achievements in sports and competitions, including participation in national events such as the Africa Under-18 Handball Championship, describing it as a reflection of the institution’s growing excellence culture.
The convocation week will feature a series of activities designed to engage the university community and celebrate achievements. Activities continue on Tuesday with a football match between male lecturers and male students, setting the tone for a lively day of engagement.
On Wednesday, attention shifts to entertainment as the Students’ Variety Show takes center stage, alongside a convocation drama designed to showcase creativity within the university community.
Thursday’s programme will feature a special gathering for alumni those who have passed through the corridors of the university in the last five years. Later in the evening, members of staff will unwind at a reception with the Vice-Chancellor. During the event, distinguished sons and daughters of the institution will be honoured as University Ambassadors in recognition of their contributions.
On Friday, the university will pay tribute to its former Vice-Chancellor in a morning session. This will be followed in the afternoon by a humanitarian service and other scheduled activities. The highlight of the day will be the convocation ceremony, to be held at the Multipurpose Hall, where degrees will be formally conferred on graduating students.
The week-long programme will conclude on Sunday with a thanksgiving service at St. Peter’s Church, offering the university community an opportunity to appreciate God for a successful celebration.
