Elizade University Matriculates 708 Students for 2025/2026 Session

Elizade University, Ilara-Mokin, Ondo State, has formally matriculated 708 fresh students for the 2025/2026 Academic Session, charging them to embrace innovation, digital competence, entrepreneurship and disciplined scholarship in a fast-evolving global landscape.

Speaking at the University’s 14th Matriculation Ceremony, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Philip Gbenro Oguntunde, described matriculation as more than a ceremony, but a formal academic contract that binds students to the pursuit of knowledge with integrity, discipline and intellectual honesty.

The Vice-Chancellor disclosed that the new intake comprises 610 undergraduates and 98 postgraduate students, admitted through a rigorous, merit-based selection process. The students are spread across the Faculties of Engineering and Environmental Sciences, Law, Basic and Applied Sciences, Humanities, Social and Management Sciences, Allied Health Sciences, as well as the School of Postgraduate Studies.

According to him, the students are enrolled in over 35 fully accredited undergraduate programmes and 23 postgraduate programmes, carefully designed to meet Nigeria’s manpower needs while remaining globally competitive.

“These figures reflect not just growth, but deliberate planning to ensure quality education, manageable class sizes and effective student–faculty engagement,” Professor Oguntunde noted.

Emphasising Elizade University’s philosophy, the Vice-Chancellor stated that knowledge must be functional, measurable and impactful, adding that modern universities must produce graduates capable of analysing problems, interpreting evidence and developing sustainable, data-driven solutions.

“Our academic model places strong emphasis on evidence-based learning, analytical and quantitative skills, interdisciplinary thinking, and entrepreneurship as a mindset, not merely a course,” he said.

He stressed that entrepreneurship and innovation are embedded across all faculties through compulsory courses, project-based learning and industry-linked assignments, noting that “the future belongs to those who can create value, not just seek employment.”

On digital transformation, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and sustainability, Professor Oguntunde challenged students to develop strong digital literacy, work confidently with data and emerging technologies, and understand the ethical implications of AI, regardless of discipline.

While assuring students of the University’s robust infrastructure and mentorship, he reminded them that personal discipline and commitment remain key to success.

Highlighting recent achievements, the Vice-Chancellor cited the impressive performance of Elizade University Law students, who emerged 1st and 3rd at national debate competitions held at Joseph Ayo Babalola University and Obafemi Awolowo University, competing against first and second-generation universities.

On discipline, he reaffirmed the University’s zero tolerance for examination malpractice, cultism, drug abuse, sexual harassment, cybercrime and all forms of misconduct.

Addressing parents and guardians, Professor Oguntunde thanked them for their confidence in Elizade University and assured them of a secure, structured and intellectually stimulating environment that promotes academic excellence and character development.

Some of the matriculating students expressed delight at the quality of facilities, academic structure and learning environment at the University.

The ceremony marked another milestone in Elizade University’s steady rise as an innovation-driven, entrepreneurial institution committed to national development.