UNIABUJA to graduate 12,624 students at combined convocation
…Ali, two others to receive honorary doctorate degrees The Vice-Chancellor of Yakubu Gowon University (formerly University of Abuja), Professor Hakeem Fawehinmi, has announced that a total of 12,624 students will
...Ali, two others to receive honorary doctorate degrees
The Vice-Chancellor of Yakubu Gowon University (formerly University of Abuja), Professor Hakeem Fawehinmi, has announced that a total of 12,624 students will be awarded degrees during the institution’s 29th and 30th combined convocation ceremonies.
Addressing journalists during a pre-convocation press briefing on Monday at the university’s main campus, Fawehinmi described the upcoming event as a major milestone for the institution, noting that it marks his first convocation ceremony since assuming office.
“This briefing is intended to provide an overview of the 29th and 30th Combined Convocation Ceremony, spanning eight days, as well as to present some key developments across the University,” the Vice-Chancellor said.
He explained that the convocation ceremonies will celebrate graduates from the 2022/2023 and 2023/2024 academic sessions, adding that the university has made deliberate efforts to produce well-rounded graduates equipped with both academic knowledge and strong character.
“We are indeed very proud of our graduands, whom we have trained not only in knowledge and skills but also in character,” he stated.
Providing a breakdown of the graduating students, Fawehinmi said 7,158 students will graduate from the 2022/2023 academic session, while 5,466 students will graduate from the 2023/2024 session.
The vice - chancellor added: “For the 29th Convocation (2022/2023 set), the breakdown is as follows: First Class: 48; Second Class Upper: 2,048; Second Class Lower: 4,418; Third Class: 644.
“For the 30th Convocation (2023/2024 set), the breakdown is as follows: First Class: 29; Second Class Upper: 1,395; Second Class Lower: 3,091; Third Class: 951.”
He further revealed that the university will reward academic excellence by offering employment opportunities to top-performing students.
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“As part of our commitment to the development and advancement of our graduates, the overall best graduating students of both sets will be given automatic employment in the university to further their career,” Fawehinmi added.
The vice-chancellor also disclosed that the institution will confer honorary doctorate degrees on distinguished Nigerians in recognition of their contributions to society.
“It is noteworthy that this year, the University will confer Honorary Doctorate Degrees (Honoris Causa) on distinguished Nigerians, including Professor Yusuff Olaolu Ali, SAN, Mr Paul Odili and Mr Emmanuel Ayuba Iza, in recognition of their contributions to their various fields of endeavours and humanity,” he said.
Fawehinmi added that the university would host a lecture on drug abuse to address growing concerns among youths.
“Titled ‘High Today, Low Tomorrow: The Real Cost of Drug Abuse on Campus,’ the lecture will be delivered by the Director-General of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency,” he noted.
On academic development, the vice-chancellor said the university has maintained strong accreditation standards and a stable academic calendar.
“We have sustained a high level of programme accreditation with the National Universities Commission and professional regulatory bodies, while maintaining a stable academic calendar to ensure efficiency in our operations,” he said.
He also highlighted major research breakthroughs and funding support, particularly in the health sciences.
“In research, the university has secured grants from the tertiary education trust fund (TETFund) and other national and international partners, including a major intervention of approximately ₦4 billion from TETFund for the College of Health Sciences,” Fawehinmi disclosed.
Speaking on institutional challenges, the Vice-Chancellor acknowledged past administrative crises but assured that stability has been restored.
“In recent times, the university was faced with leadership and administrative turbulence. The fact that we had three Acting Vice-Chancellors within a short period explains this crisis.
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“We are glad that now, the storm is over,” he added.
Fawehinmi commended the Federal Government and key stakeholders for their role in restoring peace and promoting staff welfare.
“As members of the press must have reported, many academic staff across ranks have been promoted with several of the elevations backdated due to many years of stagnation,” he said.
On infrastructure, he listed several completed and ongoing projects aimed at improving teaching, research, and student welfare.
“We have made appreciable progress in infrastructure development including the Senate Chamber, Administrative Building for the Central Research Laboratory, Computer-Based Test Centre, and expansion of our digital backbone,” he said.
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The vice-chancellor further stressed the university’s growing global partnerships and innovation drive.
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“Our University has stepped up its collaborations both nationally and internationally. We are not just signing them for the sake of signing; we are committed to their successful implementation,” he said.
He also addressed issues of discipline and security, noting that strict measures are in place to maintain standards.
“In February, the Senate of the University approved the expulsion of 28 students over offences ranging from examination malpractice to drug possession and other serious misconduct.
“This University has no place for those who violate our culture and discipline,” he added.
While acknowledging funding constraints and infrastructure gaps, the vice-chancellor expressed optimism about the university’s future.
“Funding remains a challenge. We, however, believe that with strategic planning, effective management, and strong partnerships the University will continue to thrive,” he said.
He reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to excellence and calling for continued media support.
“You remain important partners in our collective effort to lift this University to greater heights, and we do not take your continued support for granted,” Fawehinmi said.
