12 Unilorin Students Win Prestigious Foundation Scholarships

Among the twenty student recipients chosen from Nigeria’s public higher education institutions, twelve scholarships were granted to students from the University of Ilorin.

At the third scholarship ceremony for students from public higher education institutions organized by the Mojirola Educational Foundation in Ilorin, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Professor Wahab Egbewole (SAN), stated that over five decades, Unilorin and its pupils have garnered significant support due to their steadfast commitment to maintaining an exemplary record untarnished by scandals.

The Vice Chancellor, speaking via the Dean of Student Affairs, Dr. Alex Akanni, also expressed gratitude to the educational foundation for allocating more than half of the scholarship positions to Unilorin University.

He urged the recipients of the grants to view the funding as an initial investment, strive to achieve their goals, and later contribute back to the system so that future generations can also benefit.

Discussing the core purpose of the scholarship program, CEO of Mojirola Educational Foundation, Engineer Joseph Duntoye—a graduate of the University of Ilorin’s Faculty of Engineering—stated that the Project Director, Dr. Ruth Abiola Adimula, an Associate Professor at the Center for Peace and Strategic Studies (CPSS) at Unilorin, emphasized that the foundation aims primarily to support economically disadvantaged but academically talented students hailing from Kwara State.

An 18-year-old Nigerian-American has received acceptance letters from all six Ivy League universities. The governing council of FUOYE has approved a six-month leave for the vice chancellor, V.C., Fasina. JAMB has cautioned newly established tertiary institutions about avoiding unauthorized enrollments.

“This would assist in mitigating the impact of school fees and essential educational requirements,” she stated.

The leadership at Mojirola observed that the societal demand escalated due to rising tuition costs; hence, they expanded the number of recipients to 20 students, awarding each a scholarship worth N200,000.00 under the Mojirola Scholars program this year.

It is a co-ed scholarship open to both Christian and Muslim boys and girls. The recipients all come from public schools. This year, we received more than 200 applications, which underwent screening to verify strong academic records and family circumstances, as well as to evaluate their levels of need among other criteria.

Among the top 20 candidates who fulfilled all criteria, the distribution was as follows: 12 recipients are affiliated with the University of Ilorin; 3 come from Usman Dan Fodio University in Sokoto; one each hail from Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University in Bauchi, Ahmadu Bello University located in Zaria, Bayero University situated in Kano, University of Jos, and Federal University of Technology in Minna.

An educational charity urged other benevolent citizens of Nigeria to assist the government and community by leveraging their assets to bolster education within the nation.

The government alone cannot address all needs, particularly with many young people requiring assistance to complete their education and numerous others seeking job opportunities post-graduation. Thus, we urge individuals, corporations, and organizations to prioritize sponsoring educational pursuits and offering employment to our youth. Doing so would decrease the number of talented and exceptional young people migrating to more developed nations.

Regrettably, in recent years, we have been losing these young individuals not just to contribute to the growth of other countries but also to the harsh reality of premature death and insignificance due to their embarrassment at returning home.

As a representative for the group, Mr. Emmanuel Olalajulo, a 400-level Medical and Surgical student at Unilorin with a GPA of 4.94, expressed his gratitude on behalf of everyone else. He conveyed thanks to the Mojirola Educational Foundation and encouraged fellow beneficiaries to make full use of their scholarships.

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LAUTECH Celebrates 35 Years by Honoring 94 Exceptional First-Class Grads


IBADAN

The Vice Chancellor of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) Ogbomoso, Professor Razaq Olatunde Rom Kalilu, revealed on Tuesday that approximately 94 students from the institution will graduate with first-class honors during the university’s 17th convocation ceremony. This event coincides with the 35th Founder’s Day celebration.

During an interview with reporters at the University’s Senate Building, the Vice Chancellor mentioned that a remarkable 11,528 students are set to graduate. Out of these graduates, 94 have achieved first-class honors, 2,086 will be receiving second-class upper division degrees, 3,494 are graduating with second-class lower divisions, 756 are obtaining third-class distinctions, and 12 are passing with ordinary grades.

From the overall total of 11,528 graduates, 8,102 will receive their bachelor’s degrees. In Nursing Science, 7 students achieved a distinction, 1,741 earned an upper credit, and 145 received a lower credit. For Medicine and Surgery, there are 133 who passed, indicating a satisfactory performance in the field, whereas this does not apply similarly across non-medical fields.

The highlights of the 17th convocation ceremony as outlined by the Vice Chancellor encompass tree planting, a research fair and exhibition, along with performances including the convocation play and cultural acts planned for April 16. Additionally, the convocation lecture and alumni day are set for April 17, whereas Friday, April 18, will feature the Jumu’ah service, and Sunday, April 20, has been reserved for church services. The conferral of first degrees and awards is scheduled for Tuesday, April 22, while Wednesday, April 23, 2025, will see the presentation of postgraduate diplomas and advanced degrees.

Discussing the accomplishments, aspirations, and hurdles faced by the university, Professor Kalilu stated, “All our educational courses have received proper accreditation from both the National Universities Commission and pertinent professional organizations. Our six recently introduced standard academic programs—Theatre Arts, Psychology, Communications, Linguistics, Yoruba, and Political Science—have successfully passed the resource validation conducted by the national commission and are now fully functional.”

Likewise, the five recently added undergraduate programs within the realm of Open and Distance Learning—namely Cyber Security Science, Science Laboratory Technology, Transport Management, Crop Production and Soil Science, and Environmental Protection—are now fully functional.

The university is progressively expanding its global presence through research initiatives, faculty and student exchanges. It has formed partnerships with various educational bodies worldwide, including institutions like the University of Kentucky and the University of Utah in the United States, along with organizations such as the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation and the Bayer Foundation from Germany. These collaborations have led to the creation of entities like the Humboldt Research Hub, which focuses on centers dedicated to emerging and resurgent infectious diseases within the university’s framework.

It is worth mentioning that the university’s ratings have consistently improved since 2023. In 2025, according to the Times Higher Education’s World University Rankings, GT remains the top-ranked public university in Nigeria. Additionally, the same year, the Interdisciplinary Science Ranking (ISR) evaluated universities based on their involvement and impact in interdisciplinary sciences. This ranking placed LAUTECH at second place nationwide and positioned them between 251st and 300th globally.

“Our aim is to rank among the world’s top 100 universities, which is indeed an ambitious target, yet achievable. Considering this aspiration along with the continuously increasing number of enrolled students, it becomes crucial for us to enhance our facilities, integrate advanced technology into teaching and research processes, and diversify both faculty and student bodies—among several other critical and pressing measures needed. Therefore, we earnestly request all stakeholders to back the LAUTECH initiative,” stated Professor Kalilu.

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National Development: Universities’ Role in Shaping Nigeria’s Future—Deputy Speaker Kalu

“Spending resources on education yields the highest returns.” – Benjamin Franklin, an American diplomat and writer.

For hundreds of years, universities have been esteemed as sanctuaries of learning, nurseries of invention, and promoters of advancement. Apart from molding personal intellects, these institutions significantly influence the societies and countries they support.

Universities are increasingly acknowledged as crucial collaborators in tackling significant global issues and fostering economic development. Through leveraging their academic resources, research potential, and outreach programs, these institutions have the power to act as transformative forces for positive change.

For example, in Nigeria, universities are anticipated to have a crucial part in tackling the nation’s developmental issues and positioning the country on a forward-moving platform.

By means of advanced studies, joint collaborations, and public engagement initiatives, these organizations can address critical concerns like health care, education, and financial independence.

The concepts and principles discussed during this event were presented by Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, who served as the guest speaker at the 37th commencement ceremony of the University of Calabar in Cross River State on Thursday, March 20, 2025.

Entitled “Our Robe in City and Cyber Realm: Sustainable and People-Focused Education, The Mission of Our Universities from 2025 to 2075,” Kalu presented an insightful convocation address timed with the university’s golden jubilee celebration, envisioning Nigeria’s trajectory via the profound influence of higher education institutions across five decades.

The Deputy Speaker suggested that in a world where change is inevitable, education acts as a guiding light that can pave the way towards advancement and success.

Without a doubt, the influence of education extends widely, affecting both personal trajectories and societal structures. It sharpens intellects, promotes analytical reasoning, and stimulates creativity. At the foundation of societies lies education, molding future leadership and providing essential abilities required to address the continuous changes in our world.

For Kalu, the wisdom gained from the fortresses of education equips individuals to tackle the intricacies of the 21st century.

Surrounded by waves of nostalgia, the Deputy Speaker stood tall in Calabar, soaking up the resounding applause from his former classmates and fellow dignitaries who had assembled collectively to demonstrate their support. A notable alumna with a graduation spanning 27 years since her time at the prestigious law school, class of ’96, she perfectly represented the genuine ethos of the institution.

Kalu expressed his deep emotions as he shared touching insights, noting that education was transforming. His remarks struck a chord with the audience, profoundly motivating the younger generation and evoking precious recollections amongst both his contemporaries and all others gathered at the expansive auditorium of the Calabar International Conference Centre (CICC), where the convocation address was being held.

He stated: “As we commemorate this organization’s half-century history, it’s important to acknowledge that education is changing. The academic attire that used to stroll through towns now needs to adapt to cyberspace. During my time as a student, technology seemed far off. There were just a handful of computers; we scoured library aisles for literature and stumbled upon insights purely by chance. Our handwritten notes were cherished more than anything else. Nowadays, data circulates at lightning pace, wisdom can be accessed with mere clicks, the globe itself acts as an online learning environment, and displays function as lecture halls.”

Despite all these advances, one critical aspect should always stay constant: education needs to remain centered around humans. We must view technology as a tool for us rather than controlling us. As we peer into the coming five decades, particularly from 2025 to 2075, we ought to consider this question: What responsibilities do our universities bear during this period? How can we maintain high-quality learning amid continuous changes? How might we guarantee that technology supports people instead of leading them?

These are the queries we need to address today. With that said, let’s embark on our exploration at the center of this discussion. Essentially, this subject—‘Our Robe in Society and Online: Sustainable and People-Focused Learning, The Role of Higher Ed Institutions from 2025 to 2075’—encourages deep reflection on an uncomplicated but significant concept. Herein, ‘our robe’ stands for the traditional academic garb. By extension, ‘our robe in society,’ embodies our pledge to educational practices that extend beyond school walls and shape community life profoundly.

Our universities were created to drive advancement. Nowadays, though, we encounter issues indicating a gap between academic institutions and daily experiences. These challenges stem not from insufficient intelligence but rather from a mismatch with societal requirements. The focus has predominantly been on scholarly measures such as dissertation lengths, theoretical intricacies, and the grandeur of research, instead of assessing their practical implications.

The task at hand is straightforward: our institutions of higher learning need to shift from theoretical discourse to tangible outcomes, integrating academic expertise more closely with community needs—and today, this also means engaging fully within digital realms where knowledge is put into practice and innovative thinking sparks transformation. As highlighted in his pivotal work, “The School and Society,” John Dewey underscores the importance of aligning educational approaches with evolving social dynamics, warning about obsolete instructional practices that do not equip learners adequately for upcoming hurdles.

The real test of an educational institution lies in its influence on the community. How many university initiatives specifically address local issues such as energy, health care, water accessibility, food security, or transport? Without prioritizing service to their immediate surroundings, universities run the risk that their accomplishments will remain isolated within academic circles.

Our study should provide practical answers, with graduates ready to tackle genuine challenges ranging from improving policies to developing sustainable transport. If the community doesn’t experience the effects of our academic contributions, then our educational mission remains unfulfilled.

Our universities extend far beyond being mere educational institutions; they form the very foundation of both local communities and national societies. The true worth of these establishments isn’t found merely in diplomas but in their tangible influence on society. These entities ought to transcend theoretical discussions and generate studies that actively mold policies instead of simply responding to emergencies. Universities should function as central points for crafting strategies—not only within regional boundaries but also internationally—demonstrating that combining education with creativity leads to effective resolutions.

The Deputy Speaker additionally highlighted how incorporating technology into education has magnified its influence. He stated that the digital transformation has made knowledge more accessible than ever before, allowing students across the planet to interact with top-tier educational materials.

As a result, online platforms, virtual laboratories, and interactive tools have revolutionized the educational experience, rendering it more engaging, efficient, and accessible.

Kalu likewise provides several real-world instances, highlighting the significant influence of education on community growth.

He stated that programs like MIT’s D-Lab, Stanford’s StartX accelerator, and the University of Cape Town’s Water Research Commission illustrate how academic innovations can tackle significant social issues, boost economic development, and enhance quality of life.

Lifelong education is essential. From my personal journey, during my time at school, we possessed just a few computers. Typewriters were our primary tools instead of laptops. Nowadays, I continue to learn and grow constantly. To ensure students are ready for what lies ahead, educators too should remain perpetual learners. As Alvin Toffler insightfully stated, ‘In the 21st century, being illiterate won’t mean lacking reading and writing skills; rather, it’ll signify an inability to adapt through continuous learning, unlearning, and relearning.’

Education goes beyond gaining information; it involves using this information to mold the future. Should our colleges neglect to evolve, we might end up with alumni unequipped for the world they are set to take over.

Global Instances: Education Driving Community Change: This principle isn’t confined to just Nigeria; globally, institutions of higher learning are reshaping their missions by tailoring research efforts towards addressing societal demands. Here are some illustrations:
– **D-Lab at MIT:** The Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s D-Lab project extends across more than three dozen nations, focusing on crafting affordable technological tools aimed at enhancing life in remote areas. Through educating pupils in devising long-lasting answers such as sun-fueled watering mechanisms and budget-friendly health apparatuses, MIT exhibits how top-tier education merges seamlessly with meaningful social contributions.
– **Stanford & Silicon Valley Connection:** Beyond being an epicenter for scholarly breakthroughs, Stanford University plays a pivotal role in fostering economic growth within Silicon Valley via initiatives like StartX—a startup incubator which has propelled upwards of two hundred ventures collectively amassing investment exceeding ten billion dollars from venture capitalists. Such fusion between innovative entrepreneurship and advanced studies has revolutionized regional societies while setting international standards for knowledge exportation.

University of Cape Town (UCT) in South Africa: The university’s Water Research Commission collaborates closely with local municipalities to enhance water management practices. Through their initiatives, they’ve improved access for over one million individuals by devising methods to address water shortages and upgrade sanitation facilities—an example of how targeted, community-focused research can lead to significant societal benefits.
Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), located across India: These institutions have fostered an environment where approximately 500 start-ups have emerged from their incubation centers, contributing significantly to economic growth through substantial revenues. Additionally, these institutes have boosted regional agriculture efficiency using advanced farming technologies while solidifying India’s role as a key provider of technological know-how and professional services.

Wageningen University: Located in the Netherlands, this institution’s pioneering agricultural studies have significantly enhanced productivity for small-scale farmers around the world, highlighting the impact of focused research in addressing global food security issues.

“These instances illustrate this point: when educational institutions modify their approaches to address the requirements of their communities, innovation thrives, and local issues turn into chances for significant transformation,” he stated.

In short, Kalu’s talk focused on generating graduates capable of tackling practical problems; carrying out impactful research; readying students for a swiftly evolving world; encouraging innovation and enterprise; confronting social issues; adopting digital advancements, and prioritizing continuous education.

By embracing this progressive strategy, universities can enable students to spearhead beneficial change and innovation.

Nwabughioghu serves as the Chief Press Secretary for Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, who holds the position of Deputy Speaker at the House of Representatives.

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DU College Faces Protests as UGC-Directed Pay Revision Sparks Controversy Among PhD and MPhil Holders

DU College Faces Protests as UGC-Directed Pay Revision Sparks Controversy Among PhD and MPhil Holders

New Delhi [India], March 27 (ANI):
Jesus and Mary College
(JMC) has mandated a reassessment of salaries for teachers who earned PhDs, M.Phils., or ME degrees after January 1, 2016.
UGC
instruction terminating distinct increases for advanced degrees after the 7th Pay Commission.

The
JMC Staff Association
has vehemently disagreed with the decision, contending that it essentially cancels out the Ph.D. and M.Phil. increments awarded under
UGC
Regulations 2018.

The directive, providing clarifications from the
University Grants Commission
(
UGC
) and the
Ministry of Education
(previously known as MHRD), refers to an October 15, 2024,
UGC
Letter to JMC dated November 2, 2017, from MHRD, along with a follow-up
UGC
a letter sent to all Central Universities on February 10, 2025.

The Administration department might adjust the salaries of the teaching staff members listed here as of March 1, 2025. This adjustment applies specifically to those who earned a Ph.D., M.Phil, or M.E. degree following the enforcement of the 7th Pay Commission starting January 1, 2016. The Accounts Department must enforce this change effective from March 1, 2025, according to the notice issued on February 24.

Under the previous
UGC
According to regulations, teachers had the right to receive non-compound advances when they attained higher qualifications. For instance, faculty members were awarded five advanced increments for obtaining a Ph.D. and two for earning an M.Phil. at the point of their hiring. Furthermore, staff members who acquired these degrees during their employment were given three increments for a Ph.D. and one increment for an M.Phil., respectively.

However, the recent
UGC
The clarification indicates that the advantages of advanced degrees had been incorporated into the compensation framework via the Career Advancement Scheme (CAS). Consequently, additional increases for earning Ph.D. or M.Phil. degrees after January 1, 2016, are being eliminated. This adjustment has raised worries among faculty about possible decreases in their salaries as well as potential salary repayments.

JMC educators assert that this change will lead to financial difficulties and psychological strain because it upsets their current compensation framework.

Over 50 educators are not receiving the salaries they deserve according to
UGC
The regulations from 2018 are leading to significant demoralization and psychological strain among educators who have structured their careers based on the previous compensation framework,” stated the organization in a release.

At the Governing Body assembly held on March 21, 2025, the team asked the institution to suspend the re-assessment procedure until further notice.
UGC
An expert panel established on March 6, 2025, presents its suggestions. Nonetheless, the administration turned down the petition, instructing the institution to move forward with the salary adjustment process in March as planned.

Describing the choice as “regrettable,” the organization contended that altering compensation without modifying the
UGC
The regulations from 2018 conflict with legal standards.

In protest, the
JMC Staff Association
organized a sit-in protest on campus between 11 AM and 1 PM on Thursday, coinciding with the
Delhi University
The Teachers’ Association (DUTA)’s appeal for university-wide demonstrations against the
UGC
clarification, the draft
UGC
Rules 2025, Delhi University’s suggested acquisition of 12 colleges under the Delhi government, along with the evaluation of previous service periods for promotion purposes.

Meanwhile, the
Delhi University
The Teachers’ Association (DUTA) organized demonstrations at multiple colleges addressing concerns affecting educators. According to their statement, DUTA vehemently opposes the refusal to grant PhDs, M.Phils, and salary increases, along with the disregard of previous service years when considering promotions. These actions have resulted in significant financial harm and inequity for teachers.

The organization mentioned that according to the
UGC
In accordance with Regulations 2018, educators were eligible for straightforward advances without compounding to pursue advanced degrees. Nevertheless, the institution is currently revoking this advantage due to an erroneous understanding of these guidelines.
UGC
‘s recent clarification. (ANI)

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VC Urges FG to Expand TETFund Benefits to Private Universities

The Vice-Chancellor of Lead City University in Ibadan, Professor Kabiru Adeyemo, has appealed to the Federal Government to expand the Tertiary Education Trust Fund advantages to include private institutions, enabling these schools to have access to similar resources as those available at publicly funded universities.

At a press conference held on Monday in Ibadan to celebrate the institution’s 20th anniversary, Adeyemo stressed that private university students ought to have access to student loans, and professors should get government-supported research grants.

I recommend that the Federal Government promote private universities by granting them access to the same benefits enjoyed by most public universities, particularly those provided by TETFund.

“As the chairperson of the Committee of Private Universities in Nigeria, we have explicitly stated that private universities should be granted access to these resources,” he emphasized.

Adeyemo also highlighted the importance of educational fairness, emphasizing that TETFund resources, funded by taxpayer dollars, ought not to be limited to just public institutions.

Our students ought to have access to scholarships, as these can assist them in covering part of their tuition costs.

“Furthermore, faculty members at private institutions should also gain access to these resources, ensuring they feel included.”

“At minimum, the funds from TETFund come from taxpayers’ money and shouldn’t be exclusively enjoyed by public universities,” he stated.

The Vice-Chancellor encouraged the administration to establish an enabling atmosphere for private universities to flourish, appealing to the National Universities Commission (NUC), the federal authorities, and other involved parties to offer essential support measures.

When looking back at the accomplishments of Lead City University over the last twenty years, Adeyemo credited its prosperity to robust collaboration, outstanding academics, and a dedication to fostering individuals who generate wealth instead of those seeking employment.

Our dedication to quality stands unmatched. The team remains devoted to our processes. It’s our collaboration, connections, pledges, and shared goals that distinguish us.

He stated, ‘We maintain an open-door policy, exhibit zero tolerance towards misconduct, and prioritize being student-friendly.’

Adeyemo mentioned that the university’s offerings have expanded from 40 to around 120 programs, vowing to uphold academic standards in compliance with NUC guidelines.

The growth of the university stems from a commitment to build an engaging, all-encompassing, and forward-thinking educational setting that fosters exceptional achievements among both learners and faculty members.

“Our main objective is to boost capability, productivity, and enthusiasm among our staff members, guaranteeing their continued leadership in educational quality, creativity, and service provision,” he noted.

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