New Adeyemi University VC, Prof. Popoola, Pledges to Build Centre of Excellence in Teacher Education

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The newly appointed Vice Chancellor of Adeyemi University of Education, Ondo, Professor Bayode Popoola, has outlined his vision to transform the institution into a centre of excellence in teacher education, research, and innovation.

Prof. Popoola, who assumed duty last Thursday as the first substantive Vice Chancellor of the university, takes over from Prof. Samuel Akintunde, who served in acting capacity since the school’s transition from a college of education to a full-fledged university.

Speaking on Monday, Popoola described his appointment as “a divine arrangement by God,” stressing that the role comes with a mandate to lay a solid foundation for the institution’s future.

“I know that I have not been called merely to assume a position, but I have been given the mandate to lay the foundation of a university that is destined to become a centre of excellence in teacher education, research, innovation, and national development,” he said.

The Vice Chancellor commended the University Governing Council for conducting what he described as a transparent and credible selection process.

“It is commendable that the council ensured that the selection process was fair, credible and transparent. It is a demonstration of integrity and uncommon courage that our council members did not succumb to pressures but remained guided by justice and fairness,” he added.

Outlining his priorities, Prof. Popoola said his administration would focus on curriculum innovation, research and innovation in teacher education, staff development, and the welfare of both staff and students. He also highlighted infrastructure renewal, ICT integration, a conducive learning environment, funding, income generation, and alumni relations as key areas of focus.

He assured that in the coming weeks, his team would unveil comprehensive plans for structural reform, staff development, programme expansion, and infrastructure renewal.

Soliciting cooperation from staff, students, and other stakeholders, Popoola stressed that the university could become a model institution in Nigeria’s higher education system if all parties work together.

“By working together, the institution will become a reference point in the training of professional teachers, educational leaders, and change-makers in Nigeria,” he said.