Augustine University, Ilara Epe, Lagos State, is set to celebrate its 6th convocation ceremony on October 22, 2024, with a remarkable achievement: 11 graduating students have earned First Class Honors. The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Christopher Odetunde, announced that a total of 71 regular undergraduate students will graduate alongside 28 students from St. Gregory School of Pastoral Music, an affiliate of the institution’s Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies.
In an address to the media, Prof. Odetunde emphasized that Augustine University is a dynamic, faith-based institution committed not only to academic excellence but also to moral development, preparing students for brighter futures. He highlighted the success of alumni both domestically and internationally, noting that they thrive in various careers due to the sound and comprehensive education provided by the university.
"We hire professionals with industrial experience to mentor our students," Odetunde stated. "We focus on more than just passing exams; this approach sets us apart from other universities."
The Vice Chancellor also raised concerns regarding the current economic hardships impacting private institutions, calling for government intervention to alleviate these challenges. He urged the federal government to include private university students in accessing the National Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) and to consider private universities as beneficiaries of TETFund projects. Odetunde stressed that the development of the nation requires contributions from all Nigerians, not just the government.
Furthermore, Odetunde advocated for making the Student Loan Scheme available to students in both public and private universities, arguing that all students contribute to the nation’s development. He pointed out that many parents of private university students are significant taxpayers who support the funding of such schemes. "While the support needed for a private university student might suffice for three students in a public university, the reality is that many parents make sacrifices to ensure their children receive quality education," he explained.
The Vice Chancellor extended gratitude to the Catholic Church and Chancellor Mr. Femi Otedola for their support, asserting that Augustine University is on a path to becoming a sought-after institution of learning. He underscored the importance of equipping students with practical skills alongside their academic qualifications, stating, "Today's graduates must be sellable."
The upcoming convocation ceremony will highlight the achievements of the graduating class, including Loko Iyanuoluwa Emmanuel from the Department of Computer Science, who has been recognized as the Best Graduating Student for achieving a CGPA of 4.91. The event will mark a significant milestone in the academic journey of the university and its students.
