ABUAD Welcomes 2,096 New Students at 17th Matriculation, Emphasizes Character and Global Outlook

No fewer than 2,096 students on Wednesday formally took the matriculation oath as fresh students of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), for the 2025/2026 academic session, marking another milestone in the institution’s steady growth and global outlook.

The newly admitted students were drawn from the six colleges of the university and include international students from the United Kingdom and two other foreign countries, further underscoring ABUAD’s rising international profile and appeal.

Addressing the matriculants at the 17th matriculation ceremony, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Smaranda Olarinde, congratulated the students on their admission and assured them of a conducive academic environment that would nurture their intellectual, moral and professional development.

Professor Olarinde said the institution, under the visionary leadership of its Founder and Chancellor, Aare Afe Babalola, has continued to redefine higher education in Nigeria and beyond by placing emphasis not only on knowledge acquisition but also on character formation and leadership training.

“Your university goes beyond imparting knowledge; it shapes character, prepares you for your chosen careers, and positions you to become leaders of today and tomorrow,” she said.

The Vice-Chancellor noted that the achievements recorded by the university were particularly remarkable, given that ABUAD marked 16 years of uninterrupted and seamless academic activities on January 4, 2026.

She said, “Where we are today is the result of resilience, hard work and the visionary leadership of our Founder and Chancellor, the exceptional dedication of our staff, and the trailblazing achievements of your seniors who are excelling across the globe.”

She urged the matriculating students to imbibe the institution’s core values of labour, service and integrity, stressing that success at the university would depend largely on their personal discipline, focus and decision-making.

Olarinde also charged the students to strictly adhere to the university’s approved dress code, describing it as an integral part of ABUAD’s identity and culture.

“At ABUAD, our dress code is unique. It reflects discipline, professionalism and a strong sense of belonging to your chosen career path,” she said.

She cautioned the students on the importance of sound judgment, noting that “a delicate line separates brilliance from folly, and every decision you make moves you closer to one or the other.”

According to her, a university’s true measure of excellence lies not just in its infrastructure or serene environment, but in the quality and commitment of its students.

Professor Olarinde further encouraged the matriculants to draw inspiration from the ABUAD Anthem throughout their stay at the institution, describing it as a moral and motivational compass.

“A university is not defined by impressive buildings alone, but by students who are committed learners and prepared to translate knowledge into positive impact on society. Without students, there can be no university, and without quality students, excellence is impossible,” she said.

“Our university is a launching pad to excellence. With determination and faith in ABUAD’s philosophy of industry, service and character, a future of greatness where excellence is assured awaits you.”

She described the anthem, written and composed by the Founder, as more than just a song, but “a living charge and clarion call to purpose, discipline, greatness and excellence.”