By Adeyinka Adeniran
The Vice-Chancellor of KolaDaisi University, Ibadan, Professor Olajumoke Morenikeji, has declared that the true value of any higher institution lies in the quality of its teaching, the intellectual growth of its students, and the integrity of its governance, rather than the sheer number of years, programmes, or physical structures it boasts.
Speaking at a press conference held at the university campus in Ibadan on Monday, to herald the institution’s 10th anniversary and sixth convocation ceremony, Professor Morenikeji said the briefing was organized not just to announce upcoming activities, but to account for a decade of steady institutional growth and set out clear priorities for the next chapter.
She recalled that the university, popularly known as KDU, was founded ten years ago by the renowned business mogul and Bashorun of Ibadanland, Chief Kola Daisi, with a firm commitment to deliver top-notch tertiary education, raise graduates of sound character and practical competence, and contribute meaningfully to the social and economic advancement of Nigeria.
Reflecting on the state of tertiary education in the country, the Vice-Chancellor emphasized that the future of private universities will not be determined by building expansion or multiplying academic programmes, but by strict adherence to quality assurance, institutional governance, professional accreditation, and the marketability of their graduates.
Professor Morenikeji at the briefing announced that the university will be graduating a record total of 224 students from 16 academic disciplines during the upcoming convocation ceremony.
She pointed out that rising from a modest total of 52 graduates in its early years to 224 this year demonstrates steady expansion, made possible through sustained investments in modern lecture rooms, well-equipped laboratories, comfortable hostel accommodation, robust ICT infrastructure, and other essential facilities required for a modern learning environment.
She reassured parents and stakeholders of the academic standard of the institution, explaining that KDU has secured full accreditation from the National Universities Commission for most of its academic programmes across various faculties, while others are currently undergoing routine re-accreditation processes.
The university presently runs competitive programmes spanning humanities, sciences, law, health sciences, and engineering, including specialized courses such as Biochemistry, Microbiology, Industrial Chemistry, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Accounting, Business Administration, Economics, Mass Communication, Law, and History and Diplomatic Studies.
Beyond academic approval, the Vice-Chancellor disclosed that the university has earned key professional approvals, notably from the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria, while actively engaging other regulatory and professional bodies to guarantee that KDU graduates enjoy clear, uninterrupted professional pathways upon graduation.
To further elevate the academic standing of the institution, Professor Morenikeji highlighted ongoing efforts to build a robust research culture.
She noted that KDU has instituted formal research and intellectual property policies, established a centralized database of research outputs, and provided strong support for digital research infrastructure and competitive grant proposals.
She shared notable examples of the university’s research achievements, including a patented plant-based bio-pesticide formulated locally from lemongrass and orange peel extract.
She also cited international recognition achieved by KDU scholars, such as Dr. John Akintola’s research visit to a prestigious institute in France, Dr. Anne Adeyonju’s research endeavors in Canada, and Dr. Tenuola’s award of a child grant by the Maria Sibylla Merian Institute for Advanced Studies in Africa for critical research on displacement and indigenous farming practices in South-West Nigeria.
Many other academic staff, she added, continue to represent the university at international symposia and benefit from foreign academic fellowships.
Professor Morenikeji stressed that learning at KDU extends beyond classroom lectures, explaining that several academic departments have struck partnerships with industry leaders to secure practical, hands-on training for students, while university teams work actively to link graduating talent directly with employers through organized job fairs.
In addition, KDU has partnered with technical institutes to offer campus-based vocational certifications in high-demand skills such as multimedia installation, lighting and stage management, videography, creative production, and event management.
On student welfare and community engagement, the Vice-Chancellor reiterated the management’s dedication to maintaining a safe, comfortable, and vibrant campus life.
She listed ongoing investments in healthcare, sports, host-building projects, internet connectivity, and a partnership under the National Health Insurance Scheme to guarantee affordable medical care for all students. She also commended KDU’s community outreach initiatives, which include regular free health drives and infrastructural support for market women within the host communities.
Looking ahead to the next decade, Professor Morenikeji revealed that management will focus heavily on deepening educational quality, strengthening teaching and learning, expanding research and innovation, building strong industry partnerships for graduate employment, and improving overall campus welfare and infrastructure.
She reassured the public that while the first decade established the foundational building blocks, the coming decade will deepen KDU’s impact and solidify public confidence in its mission.
Charging the graduating set to be worthy ambassadors of their alma mater, the Vice-Chancellor urged them to remain humble, innovative, and principled as they step into the world, letting the quality of their choices, the excellence of their work, and their service to humanity speak for their education.
Earlier in his opening remarks, the Registrar of the university, Mr. Haruna Adetu, welcomed media executives and guests to the briefing. He announced that the 10th anniversary and sixth convocation ceremonies will span two weeks, running from October 26 to November 5, and will feature sports competitions, community health outreaches, entrepreneurship exhibitions, award presentations, the formal conferment of degrees, and a high-profile Convocation Lecture to be delivered by former President of Nigeria, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo.
