32nd Convocation Ceremony: FUNAAB celebrates milestones in academic excellence, growth
By: Lauretta Fagbohun, Abeokuta.
The Federal University Agriculture Abeokuta (FUNAAB), a leading institution established on January 1, 1988, is set to hold its 32nd convocation ceremony on Saturday, January 25, 2025.
This annual event, uninterrupted for four years, celebrates the university’s commitment to academic excellence, research, and community engagement, Academic Stability and Growth.
Speaking at a pre-convocation briefing, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde FGSN, FIHS, FASN, commended the university staff and students for maintaining a stable academic calendar, emphasizing their collective efforts in ensuring academic and administrative success.
He acknowledged the contributions of the teaching and non-teaching staff, as well as the disciplined conduct of the student body, which has been instrumental in sustaining the university’s legacy.
“This year, we are proud to graduate students who have been rigorously trained in the resilience of our students,” he remarked.
“Under the banner of this year’s ceremony, a total of 3,567 undergraduates will be conferred degrees, including 120 First Class honors, 1,626 Second Class Upper, 1,624 Second Class Lower, 164 Third Class, as well as 33 Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) graduates. Additionally, 30 postgraduate students will receive their degrees, with 274 completing their Master’s and 136 achieving PhDs”.
Expansion of Academic Programs
The institution has made significant strides in expanding its academic offerings In the past years. Eight new programs were introduced, including Library and Information Science (establishing a new department).
Six programs in Computer Science, including Cybersecurity, Data Science, Software Engineering, and Information Systems.Applied Industrial Chemistry, now part of the newly renamed Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry.
With these additions, the university now offers 38 accredited programs across 54 departments. These achievements, endorsed by the National Universities Commission (NUC), reflect the university’s dedication to meeting global academic standards.
Prof. Olusola also highlighted ongoing infrastructure projects, funded by the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), totaling 19 initiatives. These projects include new laboratory facilities, ICT infrastructure, and building constructions, all aimed at enhancing the learning environment.
“We commend the proactive efforts of our management team in securing and efficiently utilizing funds to ensure our university remains a hub of innovation and learning,” he stated.
The Department of Communication and General Studies has been upgraded to an institute, poised to launch advanced training programs in collaboration with reputable organizations. This development aligns with the university’s mission to produce graduates skilled in communication, complementing its strong science-based foundation.
The university has upheld its Legacy of Excellence with all 38 academic programs fully accredited, and with the recent success of 54 programs in the National University Commission (NUC) accreditation exercise, the university continues to uphold its reputation as a center of academic excellence.
FUNAAB’s commitment to food security and sustainability has not gone unnoticed, earning the university numerous awards from both local and international bodies. These accolades serve as a testament to FUNAAB’s tireless efforts in mitigating food insecurity and contributing positively to Nigeria’s agricultural landscape.
Prof. Olusola concluded by appreciating the federal government, TETFund, and the university community for their unwavering support, which has propelled the institution to national and international recognition.
“The convocation ceremony on January 25, 2025, will not only celebrate the achievements of graduating students but also underscore the university’s commitment to its core mandate of teaching, research, and community service”.
