Lagos State University, LASU has reaffirmed its commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders as it matriculated 12,590 students for the 2024/2025 academic session.
The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, mni, NPOM, made this declaration at the matriculation ceremony held on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, at the Buba Marwa Auditorium, LASU main campus, Ojo.
Addressing the newly admitted students, Professor Olatunji-Bello emphasized that LASU is a student-centered institution dedicated to fostering academic excellence, critical thinking, and leadership skills. She noted that the students were selected from over 50,000 applicants, making their admission a significant achievement.
She urged them to make the most of the opportunity by remaining focused on their studies.
“You are privileged to be among the few chosen to study in this prestigious university. It is essential that you dedicate yourselves to academic excellence and personal development,” she advised.
The Vice-Chancellor also reiterated LASU’s commitment to academic freedom and a safe learning environment. She stressed that the university has a zero-tolerance policy for sexual and gender-based violence, urging students to report any incidents.
“If you see something, say something,” she stated, encouraging students to speak up against harassment and misconduct.
She congratulated parents, guardians, and family members, acknowledging their support in shaping the students’ educational journey. She concluded by encouraging students to strive for excellence and expressed hope that they would graduate successfully.
Earlier, the Acting Dean of the Students’ Affairs Division, Dr. Abiodun Fatai-Abatan, congratulated the new intakes and urged them to push beyond mediocrity. He encouraged them to adopt a mindset of discovery, challenge their intellect, and engage in learning beyond the classroom.
“The future belongs to those who work for it. Embrace knowledge, question norms, and seek personal and academic growth,” he said.
Dr. Fatai-Abatan reassured students of the university’s support in making their LASU experience fulfilling and transformative. He also emphasized the importance of maintaining a good reputation as an ambassador of the university, upholding its core values of academic excellence, truth, service, and integrity.
A special motivational address was delivered by LASU alumnus and financial controller, Mr. Ayoola Onabogun, who encouraged students to stay focused, dream big, and view challenges as stepping stones to success.
The ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including the Director of JAMB Lagos Zonal Office, the Registrar of Lagos State University of Education (LASUED), Mr. Ope Akinfenwa, and members of the university management.
Also in attendance were the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Professor Oseni Afisi, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Professor Adenike Boyo, Registrar Mr. Emmanuel A. Fanu, University Bursar Mr. Said Babatunde Olayinka, and University Librarian Dr. Omawunmi Makinde.
Deans of faculties and schools, academic and non-academic staff, parents, and guardians also graced the well-attended ceremony, marking the official induction of the new students into the LASU academic community.