The University of Ilesa (UNILESA), Osun State, has outlined its strategic goals for 2025, as revealed by Vice Chancellor Professor Taiwo Olufemi Asaolu during an interfaith Thanksgiving Prayer Session organized by the university.
Professor Asaolu announced plans to introduce new academic programmes, including Medicine and Surgery, Early Childhood Care Education, Special Education, French Language, Yoruba Language, Chinese Studies and Agricultural Sciences.
He also disclosed the upcoming launch of JUPEB and Sandwich programmes, enhanced staff welfare initiatives, and further renovations of campus facilities.
To address energy challenges, the university intends to gradually deploy solar power solutions, ensuring improved electricity supply. Additionally, UNILESA plans to foster collaborations with both local and international institutions to boost its academic reputation.
Reflecting on the university’s achievements in 2024, Asaolu highlighted the successful conclusion of the 2023/2024 academic session and the seamless commencement of the 2024/2025 session. Over 3,000 new students were admitted, raising the total student population to over 5,000.
Infrastructure development was also emphasized, particularly the construction of internal road networks, made possible through the support of Governor Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke. Moreover, temporary staff inherited from the Osun State College of Education, Ilesa, were granted permanent appointments, and all outstanding peculiar and hazard allowances were fully settled.
The university expanded its academic programmes from 32 to 67, employed additional staff, and secured approval to commence its Law programme with an initial admission quota of 50 students. Accreditation exercises were conducted successfully, with 23 programmes under review by the National Universities Commission (NUC).
In terms of human resource development, 13 academic staff were promoted to Associate Professor, while numerous non-teaching staff received career advancements.
The Vice Chancellor praised student David Oluwaseun Ajibola for winning a bronze medal at the National Sewing Championship in Abuja. Sporting activities within the university also received a boost with the acquisition of new equipment.
Asaolu highlighted notable donations, including an Entrepreneurship Development Centre funded by Dame Yinka Obaleye and a Moot Court donated by Otunba (Mrs.) ‘Debola Osibogun. The Pro-Chancellor, Hon. Gbenga Onigbogi, contributed ₦7 million for the revitalization of the university dam.
Other contributions, including books, sporting equipment, scholarships, and agricultural supplies, further enhanced the university’s facilities and resources.
The Vice Chancellor called on staff to remain committed, loyal, and professional, emphasizing punctuality, teamwork, and quality teaching. He urged everyone to uphold the university’s core values and strive for excellence.
Professor Asaolu expressed profound gratitude to Governor Adeleke, the Governing Council, donors, and the university community for their continued support. He concluded by praying for a successful 2025, reaffirming UNILESA’s dedication to academic excellence and innovation.
