EKSU Unveils Global Expansion Drive, New Academic Programmes Ahead of 30th Convocation

Ekiti State University Ado Ekiti has announced an ambitious institutional expansion strategy anchored on international partnerships, academic innovation, and structural reforms as it prepares for its 30th convocation ceremony.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatola Ayodele, disclosed this during a press briefing held at the university’s main campus in Ado-Ekiti on Tuesday.

He said the institution is actively reviving and strengthening collaborations with universities in the United Kingdom and the United States, including renewed engagement with a partner institution in Northern Ireland to enhance research output within the Faculty of Science.

According to him, the partnerships are designed to support student and staff exchanges, joint research initiatives, and collaborative academic programmes aimed at improving global competitiveness and institutional visibility.

Prof. Ayodele also reaffirmed the university’s commitment to staff welfare, stating that salaries and pensions are being paid promptly despite prevailing economic pressures, which he described as evidence of improved financial stability within the institution.

On tuition structure, he explained that fee levels vary by programme, with medical-related courses costing approximately ₦6 million per session, while disciplines such as law, nursing, and engineering average around ₦3 million, and education programmes about ₦800,000 per session. He clarified that adjustments apply only to new students, while returning students retain their existing fee schedules.

The Vice-Chancellor noted that even with the revised structure, EKSU remains comparatively more affordable than many private universities, balancing cost sustainability with access to higher education.

He further disclosed that the university has submitted over 30 new academic programmes to the National Universities Commission for approval, including emerging disciplines such as Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, and Aerospace Engineering.

On infrastructure and student welfare, he said the institution is strengthening security systems through improved surveillance and inter-agency collaboration, while also inviting private investors to participate in public-private partnerships to expand hostel accommodation for its growing student population.

Prof. Ayodele added that the university is expanding its internally generated revenue base through agricultural ventures, which recorded earnings of over ₦1.5 million in the previous academic session.

He stated that a total of 10,959 students will graduate during the convocation, spanning diploma, undergraduate, and postgraduate programmes, as the institution continues its drive toward academic reform and institutional growth.