Augustine University Matriculates 400 Freshers, Urges Excellence and Integrity

Augustine University, Ilara-Epe, on Thursday held its 11th Matriculation Ceremony, formally admitting 400 new students into the institution, marking the largest intake in the University’s history. The ceremony took place at the Convocation Hall.

In his address, Vice-Chancellor, Rev. Fr. Professor Anthony Alaba Akinwale, OP, welcomed the freshers and congratulated their parents and guardians. He described matriculation as a symbolic and significant step in the students’ academic journey and urged them to remain focused, disciplined, and committed to both knowledge and character, in alignment with the University’s motto, Pro Scientia et Moribus (For Knowledge and Character).

The Vice-Chancellor emphasized that education at Augustine University extends beyond intellectual development to moral and ethical formation. He advised students to engage in critical thinking, maintain career focus, respect the academic calendar, and uphold a zero-tolerance policy for antisocial behaviour, urging them to channel their youthful energy productively toward becoming future leaders capable of transforming society.

The Matriculation Lecture was delivered by Professor Roseangela Ifeyinwa Nwuba, Professor of Molecular and Cellular Parasitology and Sabbatical Lecturer in the Department of Biological Sciences. In her address, she challenged the popular notion that “school is a scam,” emphasizing that university education is about intellectual formation, character building, and preparation for responsible citizenship.

Professor Nwuba highlighted that while information is widely accessible in the digital age, true education equips students with the ability to think critically, evaluate evidence, and apply knowledge ethically. Using scientific illustrations from her field, she likened education to a biological process of gradual development, encouraging students to view their years at Augustine University as a period of transformation into competence, integrity, and leadership.

The ceremony also recognized outstanding students. Letters of Commendation were presented to returning students who achieved CGPAs between 4.0 and 5.0, as well as to the Best Behaved Male and Female Students, celebrating their discipline, exemplary conduct, and positive representation of the University’s values.

The event was attended by Principal Officers, Deans, Heads of Departments, academic and non-teaching staff, parents, guardians, and well-wishers, marking a memorable start to the academic journey of the newest Augustine University students.