Thomas Adewumi University, Oko, Kwara State, has officially commenced its postgraduate programmes with a landmark kickoff event held on Monday, September 1, 2025, at the Postgraduate School Building. The occasion marked a significant milestone in the university’s academic development, as it welcomed its pioneer set of postgraduate students.
The event began with an opening prayer led by the compere, Mr. Olanrewaju Oladimeji, followed by the recognition of dignitaries, including the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Francisca Oladipo; Registrar, Mr. Kolawole Fisoye; Deans of Faculties; Directors; and other senior staff members.
In his welcome address, the Dean of Postgraduate Studies, Associate Professor Bamidele Razaq, expressed delight at the presence of the university leadership and reaffirmed the school’s commitment to guiding students throughout their academic journey.
The Registrar, Mr. Fisoye, described the postgraduate students as ambassadors of the university. He emphasized Thomas Adewumi University’s adherence to stipulated programme timelines, assuring that the master’s programme would be completed within the one-year duration. “Our one year is one year,” he declared, while encouraging students to take advantage of the university’s open access to lecturers and supervisors.
In her keynote address, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Oladipo, engaged directly with the 15 postgraduate students—10 attending virtually and five on-site—by inviting each to introduce themselves and their programmes. She reiterated the university’s open-door policy, stressing its commitment to student–faculty engagement and timely programme completion. “We give our word, and we stand by it,” she affirmed.
Professor Oladipo further encouraged students to serve as worthy ambassadors of the institution, highlighting the university’s dedicated facilities for postgraduate learning, including specialized workspaces. She also announced ongoing collaborations, such as a memorandum of understanding (MoU) by the Department of Mass Communication for joint master’s and PhD programmes, and a partnership between the Department of Accounting and the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) for professional certification opportunities.
The interactive session concluded with a question-and-answer segment, during which the Vice-Chancellor addressed concerns about distance learning, assuring flexibility for students outside Kwara State through online lectures. However, she, alongside the Dean of Postgraduate Studies, emphasized that examinations would be conducted strictly on-site. The event ended with a closing prayer led by the Bursar, Mrs. Afolabi.
The postgraduate kickoff not only set a strong academic tone but also reinforced Thomas Adewumi University’s dedication to delivering high-quality postgraduate education while equipping students with both academic and professional excellence.
