AFUED VC Prof. Popoola Expresses Optimism, Assures Staff and Students of Brighter Days Ahead

The Vice-Chancellor of Adeyemi Federal University of Education (AFUED), Ondo, Professor Bayode Isaiah Popoola, has assured staff and students that the challenges currently facing the institution will soon be overcome.

Professor Popoola, who is the first substantive Vice-Chancellor of the University, gave the assurance while addressing the university community during the September 2025 edition of the monthly prayer meeting, held on Monday, September 1, 2025.

He commended the organisers of the programme, describing AFUED as a “praying institution” and emphasised the importance of prayer in human endeavours. “It has not been smooth for us, we have challenges, but we are trusting and having confidence that God will help us as we try to fix them. With God on our side, we will overcome,” he remarked.

Highlighting financial constraints as a major challenge, the Vice-Chancellor expressed confidence that divine intervention, coupled with collective efforts, would yield solutions. He also appealed for patience from staff and students, assuring them that his administration would deliver on all its promises.

Speaking on the issue of graduate mobilisation for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Professor Popoola pleaded for understanding, disclosing that his administration had declared a state of emergency on the matter and was working tirelessly to resolve it. “I want to appeal to our students who are yet to be mobilised for the NYSC to give us some time. Please tell your parents that we are working on it,” he said.

He further urged staff and students to complement prayers with positive actions, stressing discipline, efficiency, and respect for time as essential values for progress. “Let us do our best to have an impact on the next person,” he added.

The event also featured a sermon by Pastor Paul Adebayo, a senior member of the University Prayer Committee, titled “Better Days Ahead.” He encouraged the congregation not to be discouraged in times of difficulty, citing biblical passages from John 3:2, Jeremiah 29:11, and Matthew 11:28 to emphasise God’s promise of support.

Prayers for peace, progress, and advancement of the University, Ondo City, and Nigeria at large were led by Dr. Ojo Akinola, another member of the Prayer Committee. Special recognition and prayers were also offered for members of the congregation born in the month of September.

Eminent personalities at the gathering included the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Bayode Isaiah Popoola; Registrar, Mrs. Olufisayo Fakorede; Bursar, Mrs. Taiwo Adedoyin; Acting Librarian, Dr. (Mrs.) Adeola Afolabi; alongside Deans, Directors, Heads of Divisions, staff, and students.