51 Bag First Class as Elizade University Graduates 484 Students

Elizade University, Ilara Mokin, Ondo State, has announced that 484 students will graduate from its 2022/2023 and 2023/2024 academic sessions, with 51 students earning first-class honors.

Speaking ahead of the university’s upcoming eighth and ninth convocation ceremonies, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kayode Ijadunola, highlighted the achievements of the graduating students. “Across the two sessions, we shall be awarding 484 Bachelor’s degrees and 74 graduate degrees to candidates who have proven worthy in both character and learning to be admitted to the various degrees of the university,” Ijadunola said.

The breakdown of the graduating classes includes 51 first-class honors, 196 second-class upper division, 191 second-class lower division, and 46 third-class graduates. In addition, the institution will confer 16 postgraduate diplomas, 51 master’s degrees, two Master of Philosophy degrees, and five Doctor of Philosophy degrees.

Professor Ijadunola also noted the strides Elizade University has made in academics and infrastructure, thanks to the support of its founder, Chief Michael Ade Ojo, and the dedication of the university community. "In the past year, the university launched new postgraduate programs in engineering and law, expanded research collaborations, and enhanced its facilities and learning environment," he stated.

Elizade University has secured National Universities Commission (NUC) approval to begin the MSc, M.Phil., and Ph.D. programs in Civil Engineering, Law, and Architecture for the 2024/2025 academic session.

However, Professor Ijadunola pointed out the ongoing challenges posed by rising electricity costs and the “Japa” trend, which has led many professionals to seek opportunities abroad. “The transition to the Band A electricity billing system has drastically increased energy expenses for institutions nationwide. Despite this and other challenges, including staff shortages, Elizade University remains resilient,” he said.

The convocation ceremony will also feature the conferment of honorary doctorates on two prominent Nigerians—Mrs. Folorunso Alakija, a businesswoman, and Chief Tunde Afolabi, an oil and gas entrepreneur.