Elizade University is set to celebrate a dual milestone as it holds its 8th and 9th combined convocation ceremonies, marking a significant moment in the university’s journey. The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kayode Ijadunola, announced at a press briefing that the week-long event will culminate on Wednesday, November 6, 2024, with the award of first degrees, higher degrees, and honorary doctorates to distinguished individuals, followed by a thanksgiving service on Sunday, November 10.
In a remarkable academic feat, Elizade University graduates will be conferred with 484 bachelor’s and 74 graduate degrees across various disciplines, including the university’s first-ever doctoral and honorary doctoral awards. Honorees include prominent Nigerians, Apostle Folorunso Alakija, Executive Vice-Chairman of Famfa Oil Ltd, and Chief Tunde Afolabi, MFR, CEO of Amni Petroleum Ltd, being recognized for their philanthropy and outstanding contributions to national development.
The graduands list according to Professor Ijadunola consists of 228 and 256 undergraduates for the 2022/2023 and 2023/2024 academic sessions respectively, noting that a total of 51 graduands are in the First-Class category, 196 in the Second-Class Upper category, 191 in the Second-Class Lower category and 46 in the Third-Class category. He added that the university will also award 16 Postgraduate diplomas, 51 Masters’ degrees, 2 Master of Philosophy degrees and 5 Doctor of Philosophy degrees.
The Vice-Chancellor highlighted Elizade University's progress in research, innovation, and development. Key achievements include a 100% pass rate among Nursing and Law graduates in their respective professional qualifying examinations. Additionally, the university’s partnerships with international institutions have brought in grants and collaborative opportunities, such as the prestigious Carnegie African Diaspora Fellowship.
“Our success is no accident but a testament to the quality of training and the resources committed by our Founder, the BOT, and our dedicated staff,” Professor Ijadunola stated. Elizade University has also expanded infrastructure, adding a new hostel, a state-of-the-art cafeteria, and a 280-seat Computer-Based Test (CBT) Centre.
However, the Vice-Chancellor noted challenges, particularly the rising cost of energy and the “JAPA” trend, which he observed as not peculiar to Elizade University but a national malaise which could run Nigeria aground. He also called for inclusion in TETFUND and NELFUND schemes, as private universities like Elizade contribute significantly to Nigeria’s educational landscape but remain excluded from federal funding initiatives.
With a commitment to impactful community service and sustainable growth, Professor Ijadunola said Elizade University will continue to position itself as a leader in academic excellence and societal contributions, reinforcing its reputation as one of Nigeria’s premier private institutions.
Williams Olufunmi
Head, Public Relations
31 October, 2024.