University Of Ilesa Receives N98m NEL Fund Loan for 247 Students, Unveils New Programmes
The University of Ilesa in Osun State received N98.87 million from the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NEL Fund) to support 247 students. Vice Chancellor Prof. Taiwo Asaolu announced the approval of 35 new academic programs by the National Universities Commission, raising the total to 67 programs starting in the 2024/2025 session.
Chris Oyeoku Okafor 
The University of Ilesa, Osun State, recently secured a substantial sum of N98,871,500 from the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NEL Fund) as loan disbursement for 247 students. This was confirmed by the institution's Vice Chancellor, Professor Taiwo Asaolu, during a press briefing at the university.
Prof. Asaolu highlighted the approval granted by the National Universities Commission (NUC) for the university to offer 35 new academic programs, starting from the 2024/2025 session. This expansion adds to the 32 existing programs, bringing the total to 67 approved courses.
The Vice Chancellor also revealed that the university's law program had received approval from the Council of Legal Education, with an initial admission quota of 50 students. The university underwent a facility inspection on September 10, 2024, which paved the way for the program's commencement.
In an effort to enhance agricultural education, the university recently inaugurated a Model Integrated Teaching and Research Farm. The farm includes various sections such as fish ponds, a cow ranch, rabbit and poultry units, apiculture, and crop plantations, offering students practical training opportunities.
Furthermore, the institution introduced tuition scholarships for students enrolled in the Faculty of Education. Prof. Asaolu stated that this initiative aims to promote teaching as a profession and increase enrollment in education programs.
He extended his appreciation to Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, for his support towards staff welfare. He disclosed that the governor approved the conversion of 230 temporary staff members from the former College of Education to permanent positions at the university. Many of these staff had served for over 20 years under irregular salary conditions.
Prof. Asaolu also mentioned the recent promotions within the institution, including 13 Senior Lecturers elevated to Associate Professors, and noted that accumulated allowances owed to staff from the defunct College of Education were paid following the governor's intervention.
The Vice Chancellor credited these achievements to the support of Governor Adeleke, whose administration has prioritized the welfare of the institution’s staff and students.
