Venite University, Iloro-Ekiti, on Tuesday, 18th June 2025, formally welcomed 290 new students into its academic fold at its second matriculation ceremony, a significant marker in the young institution’s unfolding journey.

The event, held on the university campus, was attended by an impressive mix of stakeholders including traditional rulers, community leaders, education professionals, parents, and other well-wishers. It was a colourful, dignified affair that blended tradition, culture, and the aspirations of a rising generation of scholars.

Presiding over the ceremony, the Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kelvin A. Aduloju, called on the matriculating students to approach their academic journey with a sense of integrity, focus, and personal responsibility. In a message that was as cautionary as it was inspiring, he reminded the fresh students that the freedom of university life must be balanced by accountability.

“Today, you transit from being applicants and dreamers to becoming full-fledged Venite students, destined for greatness,” Prof. Aduloju said. “We will not tolerate cultism, indecent dressing, or behaviour that undermines our values. Freedom must come with responsibility.”

The Vice-Chancellor also acknowledged the role of families in shaping the student experience. He announced the launch of a Parents-Teachers Association (PTA) forum, aimed at fostering deeper collaboration between the university and parents in the holistic development of the students. He commended the university’s founder for their vision and sacrifice, pledging that the institution would continue to raise changemakers equipped to lead both locally and globally.

The university registrar, Dr Ezekiel Ayokunle Agbaje, administered the matriculation oath, assuring parents of the institution’s commitment to nurturing students not just intellectually, but in character and discipline.

Delivering remarks on behalf of the university’s Pro-Chancellor and Chairperson of Council, Professor Olabisi Idowu Aina, was Mrs Oluwafunmilayo Nwanguma. Her address struck a deeply reflective tone, urging the students to understand the symbolic weight of their role as early cohorts of a growing university.

“You are pioneers of purpose,” she said. “You are helping to lay the moral, intellectual, and cultural foundations of this university. Generations to come will draw strength from your example — your scholarship, your character, your courage.”

She posed a series of rhetorical questions to the new students, inviting them to consider the legacy they would leave behind. “What will be your contribution to the legacy of Venite University? What ideals will you uphold? What problems will you help to solve?” she asked, echoing the Yoruba proverb, “Ọmọlúwàbí l’a ye mọ́ l’ọ́mọ” — a child of integrity is the one truly celebrated.

Traditional leadership was strongly represented at the event, with the Royal Father of the Day, His Royal Majesty Oba James Olufemi Olugbesoye, Arojojoye II, the Oluloro of Iloro-Ekiti, encouraging students to submit themselves to the refining process of higher education. “You have come here to be sharpened and guided into becoming better persons — for your families, your communities, and your country,” the monarch said.

Also representing the government was Dr Peju Babafemi, Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, who stood in for the First Lady of Ekiti State, Associate Professor Olayemi Oyebanji. She congratulated the university community and encouraged the students to embrace their academic pursuits with purpose and diligence.

“Your admission into this university is proof of your potential,” she said. “Study well, set goals, and cultivate meaningful relationships. The future belongs to the prepared.”

Development advocate Hon. Mrs Fola Richie-Adewusi and Hon. Modupe Bakare, Chairperson of Irewolede LCDA, delivered goodwill messages underscoring the virtues of integrity, hard work, and visionary thinking as tools for personal and academic advancement.

Adding a spiritual dimension to the occasion, Pastor and Pastor (Mrs) Tunde Abdullahi of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Region 25, led prayers for the students and the university community, seeking divine guidance and protection.

The event saw strong institutional and community representation. Royal fathers in attendance included Oba Sunday Ekundayo (Oluroye of Iroko-Ekiti), Oba Babatunde (Alararomi of Araromi-Ekiti), and Oba Joachim Adeyemi Afolabi Ajibola (Olujurin of Ijurin-Ekiti). Council members present included Prince Dr Olabode Adetoyi, Barrister S.O. Dada, and Dr Adenike Kolawole. JAMB officials such as Mr Olukayode S. Dada and Mr Ishola Ganiyu Babaita also graced the occasion, along with representatives from EKSU, BOUESTI, and FUOYE.

Parents in attendance expressed deep satisfaction with the university’s infrastructure, academic culture, and evident commitment to high standards. Many lauded the institution’s disciplined environment and progressive vision.

For the students, the moment was marked by both solemnity and joy. Clad in academic gowns and surrounded by proud families, they described the event as a pivotal milestone in their educational journey.

The ambience of the occasion reflected not only celebration but also a quiet resolve — a reaffirmation of Venite University’s commitment to academic excellence, institutional growth, and the shaping of future leaders with both competence and character.

Read more via the school website