The Vice-Chancellor of University of Ilesa, Prof. Taiwo Olufemi Asaolu, has highlighted significant achievements recorded by the institution within three years of its establishment, citing rapid growth in academic programmes, student enrolment, and infrastructure.
Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday to mark his third anniversary in office, Asaolu said the university has undergone a major turnaround since its creation from the former Osun State College of Education, Ilesa.
“We inherited an institution characterised by dilapidated structures, demoralised staff, and a student population of less than 1,000. To the glory of God, we now have a good story to tell.”
According to him, the university currently runs 97 academic programmes approved by the National Universities Commission, with 40 already enjoying full accreditation status. He added that the institution has also secured approval to commence a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery programme, pending clearance from the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria.
”Let me also inform you that our academic offerings have been further expanded with the establishment of a Faculty of Technology, commencing with Civil Engineering, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and Mechatronics Engineering,” he added.
The Vice-Chancellor noted that student enrolment has increased to over 15,000 within three years, describing the growth as a reflection of public confidence in the institution. “This remarkable growth reflects the quality and relevance of our academic offerings,” he said.
He also highlighted key infrastructural developments, including the recovery of 15 acres of university land, the establishment of a teaching hospital, and the introduction of a Faculty of Technology.
Asaolu commended the Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, for supporting the university through funding, staff welfare, and infrastructure renewal.
“The Governor rose to the occasion and provided lasting solutions. All temporary staff were granted permanent appointments, and outstanding allowances amounting to over ₦3 billion were fully paid,” he said.
On policy initiatives, Asaolu revealed that tuition fees have been waived for students in the Faculties of Education and Agriculture to address manpower shortages in critical sectors.
“We considered it expedient that these sectors must not be allowed to lag behind in human capital development,” he added.
Despite the achievements, the Vice-Chancellor identified challenges such as inadequate student accommodation, unreliable power supply, and the need for more lecture halls.
“When you talk of funding of a university, even if the state covers everything, it will still be insufficient,” Asaolu said, adding that the institution is exploring internally generated revenue and external support.
He disclosed that the institution is exploring alternative revenue sources, including internally generated revenue, research grants, and donor support. He added that the university is gradually building its financial base through ventures and partnerships, while alumni and well-meaning individuals have begun contributing to development projects.
“We are just three years old. We cannot compare our generating capacity with older institutions like the University of Ibadan or the University of Lagos, but we shall get there,” he said.
The Vice-Chancellor also revealed that over 3,600 students have benefited from the Federal Government’s student loan scheme, noting that the university has been encouraging students to take advantage of the initiative.
On academic expansion, Asaolu said plans are underway to introduce part-time, sandwich, and conversion programmes to increase access and reduce pressure on existing programmes.
He further noted that the university is strictly following its strategic development plan, which outlines key milestones for growth.
“When you are two years old, there are expectations. When you are four years old, there are expectations. We are meeting those projections,” he said.
Highlighting efforts in specialised programmes, Asaolu disclosed that the university is strengthening its Chinese Studies programme by sponsoring staff for overseas training to ensure adequate manpower.
On the Faculty of Law, he explained that establishing the programme required significant investment and strict compliance with regulatory standards.
“If you know what it takes to start a Faculty of Law, you will understand the level of commitment involved. It is like a university within a university,” he said.
He, however, expressed optimism about the institution’s future, maintaining that it is on track to achieve long-term academic excellence and global relevance.
“We are following our projections and meeting expectations. We shall get there,” Asaolu added.
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