UNIDEL Celebrates Pioneer Dean of Faculty of Agriculture, Prof. Helen Ajayi
The University of Delta, Agbor, has honoured the pioneer Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, Prof. (Mrs.) Helen Ajayi, who recently completed her sabbatical leave in the Faculty.
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The University of Delta, Agbor, has honoured the pioneer Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, Prof. (Mrs.) Helen Ajayi, who recently completed her sabbatical leave in the Faculty.
Vice Chancellor, Prof. Stella Chiemeke, while hosting Prof. Ajayi alongside members of the Faculty, praised her as a diligent and meticulous academic who dedicated her time to advancing excellence and fostering rapid growth in the Faculty. She noted that Prof. Ajayi’s sabbatical period allowed the Faculty to recharge, refocus, and further scholarly advancement.
In a separate event held on Thursday, September 4, 2025, the Faculty of Agriculture organized a special send-off in her honour.
Dean of the Faculty, Dr. Onyemaechi Ugboh, commended Prof. Ajayi’s leadership, highlighting that during her tenure, she facilitated the acquisition of new research skills, encouraged collaboration, promoted scholarly publications, and advanced faculty development programmes. He added that she was instrumental in strategic planning, building partnerships, and strengthening the Faculty’s academic culture.
Goodwill messages poured in from colleagues, including Dr. Ugboh Onyemaechi, Dean of Sciences; Dr. Collins Molua; Dr. Clifford Umeri; Dr. Tessy Akpukueze; Dr. (Mrs.) Eunice Akwuba; Mr. Alex Okoh; Mr. Obinna Eze, Faculty Officer of Agriculture; as well as students. They described Prof. Ajayi as a mentor, motivator, mother figure, and result-oriented scholar who embodied humility, simplicity, integrity, and credibility.
In their tributes, they emphasized her positive impact on both staff and students, praying for her continued success and fruitful years ahead.
Responding, a visibly moved Prof. Ajayi expressed gratitude for the honour and recognition. She shared memorable experiences from her sabbatical and urged the new Dean, Dr. Ugboh, to carry all staff along and remain focused. She also encouraged lecturers to uphold high standards of knowledge delivery and discipline among students.
Speaking to UNIDEL Media Crew, Prof. Ajayi expressed confidence in the Faculty’s future, stating that with the strong foundation already laid, she expects it to rank among the best in Nigerian universities within five years. She also lauded the University Management for their dedication to academic excellence and for the love and care extended to her during her sabbatical.
