The Vice-Chancellor of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, Ondo State, Prof. Olugbenga Ige, says 1,116 students of the institution have benefited from the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND).
Ige, who made the disclosure in a chat with journalists in Akungba-Akoko, said the university had received a total of N144,530,000 from NELFUND.
He explained that the funds would cover tuition and statutory charges for eligible students of the institution.
The vice-chancellor expressed appreciation to NELFUND for its support to students through the loan initiative, noting that the interest-free loans had been able to ease financial pressure on students.
Said he: “The University is enjoying NELFUND. It started last year, and currently, over 1,116 students have benefited and have been given NELFUND loans totalling N144,530,000.
“That is the amount that has been released to AAUA to date for NELFUND.”
Ige, while speaking on his five-year stewardship, said the university had made tremendous progress and sustained its position as a leading centre of research and learning.
He added that the university had made commendable progress on all fronts, particularly in research, academic expansion, staff and student welfare, sports and skills development, and partnerships for global visibility.
“When I assumed office on July 7 2021, I did so with a heart full of hope and a clear vision to make Adekunle Ajasin University a cynosure of excellence.
“Those goals were not mere words; they became the blueprint for action.
“Today, I am grateful to God and proud to say that, together, we have made significant strides.
“The university has not only sustained its reputation as one of the best state universities in Nigeria but has also advanced in research, digital learning, staff development, and community service,” he said.
The vice-chancellor while acknowledging that these successes would not have been possible without the support of Gov. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, also appreciated the staff, students and unions for their cooperation.
On academic integrity, Ige stated that his administration overhauled structures to strengthen academic programmes, leading to the full accreditation of all programmes and the establishment of new faculties and departments.
“We have significantly broadened our academic landscape by expanding the number of faculties from seven to ten.
“We established three new faculties: Administration and Management Sciences, Allied Health Sciences, and Computing; alongside new Departments of French, Food Science, and Library and Information Science.
“We have completed the construction of the Faculty of Science and the new Faculty of Social Sciences buildings.
“Furthermore, we have successfully renovated the 30-Classroom Quadrangle, Intercontinental Hall, and the Faculty of Education buildings.
“Our Business School in Akure has also been upgraded and furnished with modern fittings,” he said.
He pledged to sustain the tempo, further support student welfare through scholarships and work-study schemes, and maintain a commitment to sports development.
(NAN)
