Why Hillside University, Okemesi-Ekiti is on the Upward Swing – VC

As Varsity Matriculates 104 students

Established about two years ago, the Hillside University of Science and Technology(HUST), Okemesi-Ekiti, Ekiti State, is fast becoming an instant success and rapidly positioning itself as a transformative force in Nigeria’s education sector.

Last Thursday March 13, 2025, at the Odubabaakoko Hall located on campus, a total of 104 new students of the University were presented for Matriculation at a ceremony where former Vice-Chancellor of Chrisland University, Abeokuta, Prof Mrs Chinedum Peace Babalola was Guest Speaker.

Prof Babalola’s insightful charge to the students titled: “Learners to Leaders: Knowledge, Enterprise, and Growth”, emphasized the importance of education, research and innovation in shaping future leaders”.

To Prof. Babalola, students should endeavour to progressively shape their paths in life, not just as students, but as learners on a lifelong Journey, embracing knowledge, enterprise and transformation.

In his address to the matriculants, the Vice-Chancellor, Hillside University, Prof. Iheanyichukwu Okoro, tasked the students to uphold academic excellence and moral integrity.

Prof Okoro took time to highlight reasons why the University has been on the upward scale overtime particularly the sharp increase in students enrollment as well as heightened interests by many parents seeking serene education haven for their wards.

Other factors contributing to the rapid progress being recorded by the University, according to him, also included ongoing infrastructure developments on campus including a new facility for the School of Basic Medical Sciences in Ibadan and improved learning resources such as an extensive e-library.

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The university, the Vice-Chancellor stated, is committed to providing holistic education that blends intellectual, ethical, and entrepreneurial training.

Also presenting a goodwill message, the Chancellor of the University, Professor Emeritus Funmi Togonu-Bickersteth encouraged the matriculating students to seize The opportunities before them and strive for leadership in their respective fields.

Prof. Togonu-Bickersteth reiterated the University’s vision of producing graduates who are not only knowledgeable but also innovative and socially responsible.

The Pro-Chancellor andt Founder, Mr. Joseph ‘Laoye Jaiyeola, also highlighted the Institution’s commitment to fostering critical thinking and practical problem-solving skills.

A key highlight of the ceremony was the formal induction of students through the matriculation oath, led by the University Registrar, Dr. Mercy Agumadu.

Addressing the students, Dr Agumadu emphasized the significance of the oath as a pledge to uphold the University’s values and maintain academic discipline. Following the recitation, the Vice-Chancellor formally admitted the students into the institution, charging them to embrace diligence and responsibility in their academic pursuits.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, who acknowledged the contributions of faculty members, parents, and stakeholders in supporting the university’s mission.

With HUST’s steady rise, the institution continues to position itself as a hub for academic excellence and leadership development in Nigeria.