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VC Reveals The Journey So Far
The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi is the Chancellor of the private University called OJAJA University.
The well run varsity recently held its 1st Coronation Ceremony. The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Jeleel Olasunkanmi Ojuade recently revealed the journey so far.
According to him, Ojaja University has emerged as a beacon of hope and opportunity, guided by the conviction that education is the cornerstone of progress and social transformation. From the official approval of our academic programmes by the National Universities Commission (NUC) to the attainment of prestigious accreditations, we have lauded moments of triumph that have propelled us forward on our quest for excellence. Yet, our journey has not been without its challenges. However, through adversity, we have emerged stronger, more resilient, and more determined than ever to realize our vision of a world-class institution of higher learning.
More so, from innovative interdisciplinary courses to experiential learning opportunities, the school’s curriculum is designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and competencies needed to thrive in an ever-changing world. The University’s faculties, comprising renowned scholars, researchers, and practitioners, are at the forefront of their respective fields, pushing the boundaries of knowledge and inspiring the next generation of leaders. Subsequently, since assuming the role of Vice Chancellor, we have achieved significant milestones that have reshaped the trajectory of Ojaja University.
Some of these include the following:
(1) Accreditation: Accreditation is a process through which educational institutions undergo external evaluation by accrediting agencies (the NUC) to ensure that Universities meet certain standards of quality and adhere to established criteria for academic excellence, integrity, and effectiveness. Therefore, for the first time in our history, Ojaja University (previously Crown-Hill) received formal accreditation, validating the quality and integrity of our academic programs. This serves as a quality assurance mechanism, verifying that the Ojaja institution maintains high standards of academic rigor, faculty qualifications, student support services, and infrastructure. Likewise, it enhances the credibility and reputation of the institution, signaling to prospective students, employers, and stakeholders that its programs meet recognized standards of excellence and that graduates are well-prepared for their chosen fields. This accreditation also facilitates the international recognition and acceptance of academic credentials earned by students from the school, aiding opportunities for study, employment, and professional advancement globally.
(2) The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Eligibility: Under my reign as the Vice-Chancellor, our students are now formally eligible to participate in the National Youth Service Corps program, opening doors to invaluable experiential learning and national service opportunities. It is crucial to note at this juncture that the University has deployed Three (3) different academic sets for the NYSC program thereby, enhancing global visibility and reputation as well as establishing Ojaja University as a hub of academic excellence and intellectual inquiry.
(3) ICT Advancement: ICT stands for Information and Communication Technology. It encompasses a broad range of technologies, systems, and applications used to create, store, manage, and exchange information electronically. ICT plays a crucial role in enhancing teaching, learning, research, administrative processes, and communication within the university community. Subsequently, we have pioneered the implementation of ICT initiatives in Ojaja University, revolutionizing learning and administrative processes to enhance efficiency and connectivity across the campus. It is gradually enabling more innovation and creativity by providing tools and platforms for experimentation, exploration, and problem-solving.
Most importantly, the ICT facilitates access to digital resources, online learning platforms, and multimedia materials in the University, enriching the learning experience for students. It provides opportunities for interactive learning, collaboration, and engagement through virtual classrooms, discussion forums, and multimedia presentations. Also, it facilitates communication and collaboration among students, faculty, staff, and administrators through email, instant messaging, video conferencing, and social media platforms. It basically, enables seamless communication across campus and beyond, enhancing a sense of community and connectedness.
(4) Expansion of Academic Offerings: Through rigorous curriculum development efforts, we have also secured approval from the NUC for six newly established courses, spanning diverse disciplines including Engineering, Law, Education, Medicine, Agriculture, and Cultural Heritage and Creative Industries. Elaborately, it is firmly believed that:
- Engineering: The Engineering program at Ojaja University will be a beacon of innovation and excellence, offering cutting-edge curriculum and state-of-the-art facilities to nurture the next generation of engineers. The faculty will also comprise distinguished scholars and industry experts who are committed to providing students with a transformative learning experience that integrates theory with hands-on practice needed to tackle complex challenges and drive technological advancement in diverse fields.
- Law: The Law program at Ojaja University will be dedicated to cultivating legal scholars, advocates, and leaders who are equipped to address the complex legal issues of our time. With a focus on interdisciplinary learning, practical skills development, and ethical leadership, the Law students will graduate prepared to excel in legal practice, advocacy, policymaking, and academia empowering them to make a meaningful impact on society.
- Education: The Education program at Ojaja University will be committed to shaping the future of education through innovative pedagogy, research-driven practice, and transformative leadership. With a focus on equity, inclusion, and lifelong learning, our Education students will develop the knowledge, skills, and dispositions needed to foster positive change in educational settings locally, nationally, and globally as well as to address the complex challenges facing education in the 21st century.
- Medicine: The Medicine program at Ojaja University will be committed to excellence in medical education, research, and healthcare delivery. With access to cutting-edge medical facilities, clinical training opportunities, and research laboratories, our Medicine students will have the opportunity to receive a comprehensive education that integrates foundational science, clinical practice, and patient-centered care. Our commitment to interprofessional collaboration, evidence-based practice, and lifelong learning will ensure that the graduates equally thrive in the dynamic and complex field of medicine, making a meaningful difference in the lives of patients and communities.
- Agriculture: The Agriculture program at Ojaja University will be dedicated to advancing agricultural science, sustainability, and innovation to address global food security challenges. With a focus on experiential learning, interdisciplinary collaboration, and community engagement, our Agriculture students will gain the knowledge, skills, and experience needed to tackle pressing issues such as climate change, food insecurity, and rural development to make a positive impact on agriculture, the environment, and the Nigerian society.
- Cultural Heritage and Creative Industries: One of the distinguishing features of Ojaja University is our firm belief that education must be rooted in cultural awareness. We are proud to be an institution that not only embraces modern pedagogies and methodologies but also champions the integration of African cultural heritage into every aspect of our educational system. This program at Ojaja University will therefore, celebrate the transformative power of artistic expression, creativity, and cultural exchange. With access to state-of-the-art studios, performance spaces, and exhibition venues, our Creative Arts students will explore and innovate across visual arts, performing arts, media arts, and design. Through immersive experiences, mentorship, and professional development opportunities, our graduates will be poised to make meaningful contributions to the arts, culture, and society on a global scale. This, I believe, is one of the greatest strengths of our university: the ability to produce graduates who are not only global citizens but also custodians of their local heritage.
In essence, these newly introduced programs are poised to compete with the top international schools across the globe, preparing graduates to excel in their respective fields and make a positive impact on society.
(5) Infrastructure Development: As a result of my steadfast commitment as the Vice-Chancellor of Ojaja University, initiatives are currently underway to create more infrastructures in the institution, improving accessibility and development for students, faculty, and visitors alike. Hence, work has already commenced in this aspect.
(6) Partnerships, Collaborations and Conferences: Our partnership/collaboration drives cut across different fields. Currently, we are in partnerships with institutions, corporate bodies, and universities within and outside Nigeria. We have relationships with the Center for African Studies, Howard University, Washington DC; Dance Studies Association, USA (we hosted a virtual international symposia in October 2023 on ‘Bridging the Gap between Town and Gown); Hampton University, Virginia, USA; the US Department of States, Public Diplomacy Unit (we hosted the US team at Ojaja University in May 2023); ongoing discussion with the University of Southern California (in the area of Filming and Cinematography); United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), Abuja, Nigeria office; European Union Delegation to Nigeria, Abuja office; Microsoft Inc.; Sugar Factory Film Academy, Ilorin (being worked out) among others.
Ojaja University is a signatory member of the KU8 consortium of universities in Kwara, under the able leadership of Professor Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN.
