- By Demola Atobaba, Ado-Ekiti
The Vice Chancellor, Hillside University of Science and Technology (HUST), Okemesi-Ekiti, Professor Iheanyichukwu Okoro has admonished the newly admitted students of the institution to be moreso focus and take their studies a priority.
Addressing the matriculants and other dignitaries at a well attended second matriculation ceremony of the school, the VC disclosed that HUST as an Institution has made remarkable progress into its short existence.
Professor Okoro, urged the new students to uphold academic excellence and moral integrity. He highlighted HUST’s rapid growth, noting an increase in student enrollment and ongoing infrastructure developments, including a new facility for the School of Basic Medical Sciences in Ibadan and improved learning resources such as an extensive e-library. The university, he stated, is committed to providing holistic education that blends intellectual, ethical, and entrepreneurial training.
He hinted that the school has recorded a tremendous achievement in the last few years of it’s existence, noting that the institution has not to joke with producing best students that can compete globally.
His words: “In our inaugural session, we matriculated twenty-five (25) students. Today, we celebrate the induction of one hundred and four (104) students. This growth reflects our dedication to academic excellence and institutional development.
“Over the past year, we have made significant strides in the following areas which includes infrastructure development, acquisition of a four-story facility for the School of Basic Medical Sciences in Ibadan, Oyo State, ongoing development of a Nursing Department facility on our main campus, both of which will be completed by the end of March 2025, well-equipped engineering and basic sciences laboratories for practical training among others.
“On behalf of the Board of Regents, the Governing Council, Management, Senate, Faculty,
Staff, and Students of Hillside University of Science and Technology (HUST), Okemesi, Ekiti State, I extend a warm welcome to you all on this momentous occasion, the second matriculation ceremony
of our esteemed institution”.
The VC who could not hide his joy described the occasion as another significant milestone in the history of the Institution.
“Today marks a significant milestone in the history of our university as we formally induct our second set of students, our distinguished Beta Set, into our academic community. We are
elated to have such a vibrant and intellectually gifted group of young me and women join our institution, and we look forward to nurturing their academic and personal growth”.
He appreciated all parents in attendance and assured them of the safety. “To our esteemed guests, parents, and guardians, we deeply appreciate your presence today. Your decision to entrust us with the education and development of your wards is a testament to the confidence you have in our institution. We assure you that we will uphold the highest academic and moral standards to ensure their success.
“To our dedicated faculty and staff, your unwavering commitment and selfless service have made this day possible. Your tireless efforts in shaping the future of our students and enhancing the university’s reputation are highly commendable. Your hard work has been instrumental in our mission to revolutionize tertiary education in Nigeria.
He noted that matriculation is a significant academic tradition that formally admits students into the university system. “By signing the matriculation register, you pledge to abide by the rules and regulations of HUST and to embrace the responsibilities and privileges of being a member of this great institution. As you embark on this academic journey, we encourage you not only to pass through HUST but to allow HUST to pass through you, shaping your intellect, character, and practical skills”.
He affirmed that the Institution commitment to character building is boldly evident. “Our commitment to character building is evident even in our learning environment. You will notice that our classrooms are named after virtues such as Integrity, Endurance, Patience, Compassion, Courage, and so on. This is an intentional effort to instill t hese values in you, reminding you to embody them throughout your stay at HUST and beyond.
He sated that the National Universities Commission (NUC) has approved thirty-five (35) academic programs for HUST, which they have commenced with ten (10) of the programs.
“All these programmes have been resource-verified and will later be accredited when they mature. As we grow, more programs will be introduced, ensuring that students have access to a broad range of
disciplines aligned with national and global needs. Our academic structure is designed to cater to your diverse aspirations, with faculty and staff readily available to support you in your pursuit of excellence. We encourage you to seize the numerous opportunities available to you and to take charge of your future with
determination and hard work.
“We don’t joke with discipline among the students as offenders will face strict disciplinary measures. We urge you to familiarize yourselves with the university’s rules and regulations and to conduct yourselves with integrity and dignity.
“HUST has made remarkable progress into its short existence. In our inaugural session, we
matriculated twenty-five (25) students. Today, we celebrate the induction of one hundred
and four (104) students. This growth reflects our dedication to academics excellence.
Held at a spacious Odubabaakoko Hall, university premises, the ceremony tagged: “Learners to Leaders: Knowledge, Enterprise, and Growth,” welcomed 104 new students into the institution.
Also speaking, the Chancellor, Professor Emeritus Funmi Togonu-Bickersteth, in her goodwill message, encouraged the matriculating students to seize the opportunities before them and strive for leadership in their respective fields.
She reiterated the university’s vision of producing graduates who are not only knowledgeable but also innovative and socially responsible.
Commenting on the epoch ceremony, the Pro-Chancellor, Mr ‘Laoye Jaiyeola emphasized the institution’s commitment to fostering critical thinking and practical problem-solving skills.
While soliciting for more cooperation from the indigenes of the town, Mr Jaiyeola who also doubled as Founder of the University also thanked the host Community especially the Owa-Ooye of Okemesi-Ekiti, HRM Oba Gbadebo Adedeji, CON, and the Owa-Ooye-In-Council for standing solidly behind the institution and for their support at all time.
Highpoint of the event was the official induction of students through the matriculation oath, coordinated by the University Registrar, Dr. Mercy Agumadu. Addressing the students, she emphasized the significance of the oath as a pledge to uphold the university’s values and maintain academic discipline.
Shortly after the recitation by the matriculants, the Vice-Chancellor formally admitted the students into the institution, charging them to embrace diligence and responsibility in their academic pursuits.
Some of the newly admitted students who spoke with TopNews Crew expressed their joy for securing admission into the school while promised to abide and uphold the rules and regulations of the institution.
