Ignatius Ajuru University of Education (IAUE) marked a significant milestone, welcoming its newest students for the 2024/2025 academic year at its 16th matriculation ceremony. The event, held on the university’s main campus, celebrated the official admission of thousands of students into the institution’s diverse academic programmes.
The ceremony commenced with the University Registrar, Dr. C. A. Ajike, setting the stage, followed by the Acting Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Onuchuku, who formally constituted the assembly for the admission of the matriculating students. The Deans of the university’s seven faculties then presented their respective matriculants, symbolising the formal entry of these students into their academic journeys.
In his address, Prof. Onuchuku extended warm congratulations to the students and their families, acknowledging the collective effort that brought them to this pivotal moment. He provided a concise historical overview of IAUE, tracing its evolution from a College of Education, established in 1971, to its current status as a reputable university, granted in 2009.
Highlighting the institution’s competitive admissions process, the Acting Vice-Chancellor revealed that IAUE received 17,202 applications, admitting 8,225 students. Of those admitted, 7,975 were through the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), and 250 through Direct Entry. After rigorous screening, 6,854 students, encompassing Regular, Part-time, and Online learning programs, qualified for matriculation.
Prof. Onuchuku also celebrated the university’s recent achievements in sports, notably its impressive 7th place ranking at the National University Games (NUGA). He emphasised that this achievement, surpassing numerous older institutions, underscored IAUE’s commitment to holistic student development, including sports and recreation.
Addressing the matriculants directly, he charged them to prioritise their academic pursuits, urging them to steer clear of negative influences and remain steadfast in their pursuit of knowledge. He issued a stern warning against involvement in social vices such as cultism and examination malpractice, emphasising that such actions would result in severe disciplinary measures.
The ceremony culminated with the students reciting the matriculation pledge, a solemn commitment to uphold the university’s values and academic integrity.
